Rector of The University of Dundee - Election and Installation

Election and Installation

Rectors are nominated by the gathering of fifty signatures by students. Close to the Rectorial Election, the Students' Association traditionally hosts a hustings debate, known as the Hecklings, in which all nominees get a chance to put forward their case. The nominees also traditionally make an appearance on the university campus during the election day to canvass for last minute support, assisted by a campaign team of students. The election is organised by a member of the Senatus Academicus, usually the Academic Secretary.

If an election is tied between two candidates, then the Chancellor has the deciding vote on the matter. Neither staff members at Dundee nor students matriculated at any university are eligible to stand The election is always held in either January or February if the election is not precipitated by a resignation during the Rector's term of office, and on a day appointed by the Senatus Academicus in consultation with the Students' Association.

The installation is usually held two or three months following the election. In the past the ceremony was held in the Caird Hall in the City Centre, however, recent ceremonies have been held in the University's own Bonar Hall - the last ceremony was expected to take place in the smaller Ustinov Room of the Bonar Hall, but had to be changed at the last minute to a lecture theatre in the new teaching block as a result of unexpected demand. The installation itself is made by the Chancellor (or Vice-Chancellor if unavailable) with the formal introduction of the Rector to the students being made by the President of the Students' Association. Following a meeting with the Lord Provost of Dundee, the Rector will be 'dragged' in the University's carriage from the City Chambers to the University by one of the sports teams in a parade, often stopping off at public houses along the way for refreshments.