St Andrews University principal Professor Sally Mapstone has been confirmed as The Saltire Society’s first female president.
Prof Mapstone, 60, has taken over the role from Magnus Linklater to head the 82-year-old charity, which champions Scottish culture and works with new creative talent from a variety of different industries and backgrounds.
“It is such an honour to be assuming this role,” Professor Mapstone said.
“The Saltire Society advocates for the excellence of Scottish culture and its place at the heart of Scottish society. Scottish culture has a proud and diverse history and a dynamic currency today.
“Books, buildings, and the arts surround us daily, and Scottish writers, artists, designers, and musicians, constantly enhance our lives.
“I look forward to promoting the Scottish cultural mix through the Saltire Society’s activities and to raising the Society’s profile still further.
“It is also an honour to follow on from Magnus Linklater, whose commitment to the Saltire Society has done so much to enhance its standing and its significance.”
Handing over the official chain of office, Mr Linklater, who has been president of the Saltire Society since 2011, said: “I am delighted to be handing over the presidency of the Saltire Society to Sally Mapstone and look forward to watching the Society go from strength to strength.
“I have enjoyed my time as the president of the Saltire Society, with notable highlights being the 80th anniversary celebrations and the establishment of the Saltire Trust to work to ensure the Society has a sustainable future.
“The annual literary awards are a show case for Scotland’s writers and I have been especially delighted to see the tradition of these awards event continue as a priority date in the cultural calendar.
“The Saltire has a vitally important place within Scotland’s culture and I know that it, headed by Sally will continue to flourish.
“I am certain that Sally will bring a new vision and a deep understanding of the values the Saltire Society stands for to her new role and I wish her all the best in that role.
“Being the President has been a deeply rewarding pleasure for me and I am certain that it will be for Sally.”
Sarah Mason, programme director of the Saltire Society, said she was delighted to welcome Prof Mapstone as the 18th president and first woman president of the organisation.
She added: “We are looking forward to working with Sally to ensure that Scotland’s culture continues to be celebrated and encouraged and know that having her fresh voice will ensure the Society continues to develop and work for Scotland today.”
