5 MINUTES WITH

MINUTES WITH : PROFESSOR WENDY THOMSON Professor Wendy Thomson CBE joined the University of London as Vice-Chancellor in July of this year. She brings a range of experience in senior roles in higher education and public service. Until coming to the University, Wendy held a professorship in social policy at McGill University in Montreal and served on the Council of the University of East Anglia and the Norwich University of the Arts. Previous roles include CEO in local government and Chief Advisor on Public Service Reform for a former UK Prime Minister. With research interests that also include health policy and child welfare, Wendy has led governmental panels and reviews on these subjects, both for the Canadian government and internationally.

What was the last country you visited? What three things would you take with I visited Russia for the graduation ceremony you on a desert island? of our students studying finance and My daughter, my laptop and a sustainable economics at ICEF Moscow. It was the supply of fine food and wine. first time I had been in Moscow since the early 80s. There were many changes to be seen, changes in which the University of London has played a progressive role. Name three guests, past or present, you would like to have dinner with and why. Michelle Obama, because of the life she is living and the inspiration she provides. Leonard Cohen, What is the best and worst thing about travel? because of the poetry in his words and voice, and The best thing about travel is experiencing our shared birthplace, Montreal. Vikram Vij, so he new people and cultures and climates. could make sure our dinner was tasty and came The worst thing: airport queues. with his expert critique. Describe yourself in 10 words. Name one thing you want to do in the Mother, professor and public servant next year. who loves tennis and yoga. Help the University of London shape its next What is your favourite city and why? big vision and strategy; its ‘why’? My favourite city is London because What is your favourite book of all time? it is a diverse cosmopolitan meeting E. P. Thompson The Making of the English place with exciting people and diverse Working Class. talents; and my adopted home. Name something or someone that always make you smile? My daughter. What is your favourite restaurant? The Red Fort. Tell us one thing you love about London. The squares of Bloomsbury.