Published on 20 June 2023
Dr Christina Edgar is joining the University of Sunderland as the new Director of Student Journey.
Christina joins the University later this year from the University of Leeds, where she works with teams responsible for student experience, education and services.
“I am so excited,” she said.
“I can already see so much good work happening here. The focus on students is key and you can really feel that emphasis here at the University of Sunderland.
“It feels like such a good fit already and I am looking forward to bringing my experiences from a number of different universities to the role."
Born and raised in Manchester, Christina attended her local university where she studied for a PhD in Experimental Particle Physics.
As part of her PhD, Christina spent two years working on an experiment in San Francisco before graduating in 2008.
During her studies, Christina dedicated time to volunteering and outreach work, encouraging women into science and young people into higher education. It was then she realised her true passion lies in student education.
Christina went on to work for Warwick, Reading, Sheffield and Leeds universities – progressing in roles dedicated to supporting students on their journey from admission through to graduation, including admissions, recruitment, widening participation and a broad range of student services.
Christina said: “Education is life-changing. Being part of the transformational journey for students is enormously rewarding and I am continually inspired by those around me - colleagues, students and partners.”
Now, Christina is set to bring all that expertise and passion to support and help students enjoy, thrive and grow throughout their studies at Sunderland.
Andrea Walters, University Secretary and Christina’s new boss, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Christina as our new Director of Student Journey.
“As well as bringing a huge amount of knowledge and experience to the role, Christina is passionate about making a difference for students and is looking forward to continuing the excellent work of the Student Journey service.”
Christina is currently in the process of relocating to Sunderland from Derbyshire with her husband Terence – a traditional decorative painter in the ‘Roses & Castles’ style seen on narrowboats – and their rescue cat, Master Tiddles Plumpkin.
Christina will begin her role as Director of Student Journey on 1 September 2023.