University of Surrey appoints Dr Catherine McNamara as Head of the Guildford School of Acting

Dr Catherine McNamara is currently serving as Head of School (Art, Design and Performance) within the Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries at the University of Portsmouth. Prior to this, she spent 16 years at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (University of London), holding various roles including Course Leader of the MA Applied Theatre (Drama in the Community & Drama Education) and latterly, Director of Learning, Teaching and Student Experience. 

Professor Graham Miller, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Surrey, said: 

“Dr McNamara brings a wealth of experience in the intersection between conservatoire and university that will be invaluable as GSA moves forward to meet the challenges facing the sector, and I am excited by the expertise that she will bring to the University of Surrey.” 

Dr McNamara added: 

“I am very much looking forward to taking up the role of Head of GSA and working with the staff, visiting professionals, the students and alumni there. GSA consistently delivers world-class education and training for the creative industries. I’m looking forward to building on the School's long-standing successes by working collectively to lead the university-conservatoire into the future.”