As the Regional Studies Association (RSA) approaches its 60th anniversary year, this is a pivotal time in the development of the Association. We have a new Chief Executive (the first in a generation), a new President and a new Chair. This is therefore an opportune moment to consider the future direction of the RSA.
In a break with tradition, this year’s opening plenary invited a discussion on emerging ideas for a new RSA strategic plan. The process of formulating such a plan invites us all to revisit and re-articulate what regional studies and the RSA stand for today; to articulate what we want to achieve in the years ahead; and to build consensus on our priorities for action. Once completed, the aim of the strategic plan will be to enable the RSA to thrive in the world in which it will be operating from 2025-30 and to support all who engage with the Association. You can read an earlier RSA Blog on The Future of the RSA, written by Alan Kinder, RSA Chief Executive here.
This session on ‘the future of the RSA’ provided an opportunity for RSA leaders to share emerging ideas and invite all audience members to share their views on the challenges, opportunities and priorities that lie ahead for regional studies and the RSA.
Watch the recording of the session below:
Session chair: John Harrison – RSA Board member (University of Loughborough, UK)
Speakers: Heike Mayer – RSA President (University of Bern, Switzerland)
Sarah Ayres – RSA Chair of the Board of Trustees (University of Bristol, UK)
Alan Kinder – RSA Chief Executive (Regional Studies Association)
You can find the opening remarks of each speaker here.
If you have any views on the future of the RSA you wish to share, please email RSA Chief Executive Alan Kinder (alan.kinder@regionalstudies.org).