University of Dundee: Title

1 February 2001

Hasselhoff withdraws from Rector election

David Hasselhoff has had to withdraw from the race for the position of Rector at the University of Dundee because of a hectic work schedule. He reluctantly withdrew his nomination saying that he had been flattered by the nomination to represent the students at the University of Dundee but found himself unable to fulfil the duties of Rector.

David Hasselhoff, the famous Baywatch lifeguard had told University officials in a fax that he would only be able to visit the University once a year which he realised was not enough to honour the duties of Rector. He expressed an interest however in coming to speak to the students at some point in the future.

An election presiding officer confirmed that Mr Hasselhoff had withdrawn because of work commitments.

Students' Association President Dave Cunningham said: "This race will see the election of a committed Rector who will visit the campus often and represent the needs and views of the students. David Hasselhoff's decision to withdraw because he could not honour the substantial commitment is an encouragement to all the students to elect a Rector who can effectively represent them. The students of Dundee University are leading the way in preserving the important Scottish democratic tradition of Rector having nominated four excellent and committed candidates."

The election for University of Dundee Rector will take place on Friday 9 February. The official list of candidates is Dr Abd-al-Fattah El-Awaisi, Nick Johnston MSP, Fred MacAulay and Richard Whiteley. Hustings will take place on Wednesday 7 February at 8pm in the Dundee University Students' Association.