New Chair of the Corporation Board appointed at Blackburn College

Blackburn College has announced the appointment of Mark Allanson as Chair of the Corporation Board.

He steps into the role following the end of the term of office of previous Chair, Lillian Croston, who has served the Board for the past decade, first as a Governor and then Chair from 2019.

Mark joined the College as a Governor in 2016 as Chair of the Learning and Quality Committee and a member of the Governance Panel. He commenced his term of office as Chair of the Corporation Board on 1 April 2024.

The Blackburn College Corporation Board is made up of experienced volunteer representatives from academia, local businesses, and communities. Together, they are responsible for the quality of the College’s teaching and learning experience, and the support and welfare of its students, in addition to developing and overseeing a medium and long-term strategy for the College.

Mark was, until recently, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Edge Hill University and brings with him a wealth of experience in education and senior management positions.

He plans to “Build on the good work of the College to engage with local and national employers to shape the curriculum and meet the skills and jobs need. I look forward to working in partnership with local businesses, industry, and our public sector services to ensure students leave with the skills needed to make a valuable contribution in whatever role they pursue.”

Principal and Chief Executive of Blackburn College, Dr Fazal Dad welcomed Mark’s appointment as Chair of the College’s Corporation Board. He said: “The College is supported by an impressive team of Governors and through his accomplishments, Mark is well placed to lead the Board.

“I’m looking forward to working with Mark and the rest of the Corporation Board to build on the College’s achievements and strong reputation to make a lasting impact and fulfil our mission of transforming students’ lives and supporting our community through outstanding education, training, and support.”

Mark said, “I am passionate about the College’s desire to improve the life chances of every student through exceptional teaching and learning, enrichment, and careers support.

I am proud to take on this role and lead an excellent Board of fellow governors. I’m equally proud of our students and proud of the College, its high standards, the leadership team, and all colleagues who work to ensure that our students leave as well-rounded, positive individuals able to take their place in the local community and wider society.

The college has a real sense of purpose in transforming students’ lives through education and training for the benefit of the community. I’m looking forward to working with the leadership team and all our stakeholders to ensure that’s achieved and the College is recognised as outstanding for its contribution”

Dr Dad added: “On behalf of the College, I would also like to extend our thanks and well wishes to Lillian Croston for her support and leadership of the Board over the past five years. She has ensured that our students were always at the centre of our decision making.”