The role of Chancellor is an important, but honorary position as figurehead of the university. The Chancellor presides at graduation ceremonies and other university events.
Lord Boateng, a Barrister who first rose to prominence as a campaigning civil liberties lawyer, has a long and distinguished political career as MP for Brent South (1987-2005) holding many ministerial positions, including Minister of State (Home Office) and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and was Britain's first Black cabinet minister in 2001. |
As the first Minister for Young People his priority was to listen to and be a voice for Britain's youth, launching the UK's largest research project designed to examine social exclusion and promoting citizenship among young people. He served as the High Commissioner to South Africa between 2005-2009 and was introduced to the House of Lords in 2010.
Lord Boateng will be visiting our campuses later in Spring and take part in our July graduation ceremonies. On his visits he hopes to engage with a wide variety of staff and students in order to learn about the full range of our work. His great passions are Africa, sustainable development and social mobility, all of which are directly relevant to our mission.
On his appointment as Chancellor, Lord Boateng said:
The university's commitment to access diversity and excellence is second to none. I am delighted to be associated with a university that is truly global in its outlook and contribution to sustainable development at home and abroad.
The Vice Chancellor also wants to take this opportunity to extend our thanks to Baroness Scotland for her support and work championing our university throughout her time as Chancellor. Her association with the university has been truly appreciated by all students and staff.
