DMU Vice-Chancellor named as one of 'Britain's New Radicals' by Observer newspaper

De Montfort University (DMU) Vice Chancellor Dominic Shellard has been named as one of ‘Britain’s New Radicals’ by The Observer newspaper and the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (Nesta).

The inaugural list consists of individuals who – according to the newspaper – are “applying fresh approaches to some of the major challenges that society faces across a range of issues.”

Professor Shellard has been recognised for his commitment and enthusiasm for DMU’s Square Mile project, a community engagement initiative which employs the skills, knowledge and expertise of the university to improve the wellbeing and prospects of communities in Leicester. Professor Shellard conceived the idea for the project and has dedicated himself to ensuring its impact since it launched in April 2011.

Square Mile– fully supported by the local council, health authority and community groups – has led to unprecedented levels of university engagement with the local area, including the introduction of 21 projects led by DMU staff and students focused around core themes of community, health, media, local identity and skills development; outreach work with young people and marginalised groups; and the introduction of a dedicated research programme to ensure that learning from the initiative can be captured, analysed and transferred to new contexts.

Dr Jason Wood - Research Director of the Square Mile project – nominated Professor Shellard for the New Radicals list when he read they were looking for freethinking individuals who are changing Britain’s communities for the better.

“In a time of real economic and social challenges, this project shows how a university can change lives and make a positive difference to a local community,” said Dr Wood.

“As the architect of the Square Mile, Professor Shellard has been the driving force behind a project which is the embodiment of his belief that universities are – and should continue to be – a public good.”

Following the publication of the list, Professor Shellard commented: “Everyone associated with the Square Mile project is extremely passionate about ensuring DMU continues to make a positive contribution to the development of the local area. As a university that prides itself on its quality and distinctiveness, to be recognised in the first ‘New Radicals’ list for an innovation we are so proud of is a real honour.”