THE only woman representing Scotland at the European Parliament has been appointed as the new rector of St Andrews University after no other candidates were put forward.
Catherine Stihler MEP takes over from historian and writer Alistair Moffat and follows in the footsteps of JM Barrie, Rudyard Kipling and John Cleese.
She was the only candidate to be nominated by the deadline on Wednesday night, meaning she was automatically appointed into the role. She is 52nd rector and the second woman to hold the position.
Ms Stihler, a former St Andrews student president who graduated with joint honours in International Relations and Geography and a postgraduate MLitt in International Security Studies, said she would lobby for an increase in accommodation and measures to protect traditions such as Raisin Weekend.
She said: "St Andrews provides an experience like no other. It will be an honour to serve again." Ms Stihler will be installed next year.
Student Anna Newman, who proposed Stihler, said: "I cannot wait to see St Andrews thrive with Catherine as rector. She will be an incredible support system for students, an inspiring leader, and an amazing asset to our university."
President of St Andrews' students association Pat Mathewson added: "Far more than ceremonial, this ancient office resides at the heart of the student experience. Catherine stands poised to continue the strong tradition of a working rector here in St Andrews."
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