Two new institutes will be set up as part of the University of Cumbria next year. 

They will focus on health and business and industry and nclude an emphasis on digital, visitor economy and aviation and logistics skills.

The health institute will be led by newly-appointed Professor Brian Webster-Henderson, Pro Vice Chancellor for Health and the business and industry institute will be led by  Jackie Arnold, Pro Vice Chancellor Region and Employer Engagement.

A high-level gathering held during graduation week and heard that the university was an anchor institution bringing higher education to Cumbria and working across the county's key sectors. 

University Chancellor Dr John Sentamu, the Archbishop of York joined 70 guests drawn from industry, business, commerce, Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, the NHS, tourism, arts and local authorities at the event held at the Halston in Carlisle.

Nigel Wilkinson, managing director of Windermere Lake Cruises, board member of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership and lead for Cumbria Visitor Economy, said: “The university is embedded in the heart of our community.

 “From a business perspective the role of the university is absolutely vital and the university is creating the future for industry in Cumbria.

"It’s fantastic to see the University of Cumbria continue to develop and succeed and we are delighted to be part of it.”

Prof Mennell welcomed guests and highlighted the achievements of staff and students. 

She said: "Last year we celebrated 10 years as a university and saw our 30,000th graduate succeed, delivering significant impact to people, place, communities and the economy.

"We have positioned ourselves very purposely to deal with the challenges facing higher education as well as operating in this part of the country.

“With collaboration, we can, we need and we want to do more, to ensure Cumbria and its population, young and older, have the confidence and capability to thrive and to meet the current and future needs of our county and the wider Borderlands region."

The university is in year two of its strategic plan focused on developing routes into and through higher education.

Dr Sentamu reinforced the benefits and potential of partners working strategically with the university to ensure the university and region continue to flourish. He said: “The light that shines farthest, shines strongest nearest home. We must support our university.”