Plymouth faced challenges during her time as Vice-Chancellor – not least the most significant global pandemic in a century – but, in a farewell message, the outgoing VC cited colleagues' "knowledge, ingenuity, and compassion" as essential to the University's success in overcoming them.

Despite her 'retirement' Dame Judith remains busy, including chairing the Great South West partnership's Energy Board, and as a member of the Marine Management Organisation.

She is now an Emeritus Professor at the University of Plymouth and continues to champion the institution at the highest levels.