His Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex appointed as our next Chancellor

At its annual meeting held 12 March 2013, the University Court endorsed the recommendation that The Earl of Wessex be appointed as the fifth Chancellor of the University of Bath.

The Chancellor, who is by Royal Statute the Chief Officer of the University, presides over meetings of the Court, confers Degrees at graduation and otherwise represents the University.

Prince Edward will take up the role from 1 August 2013 on the retirement of the current Chancellor, Lord Tugendhat, who has given 14 years of outstanding service to the University.

The date and details of the activities to celebrate the installation of our new Chancellor will be announced in due course.

As well as carrying out duties in support of The Queen both in the UK and abroad, His Royal Highness plays a very active role in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, the programme for young people created by his father which now operates in 140 countries around the world. The Earl of Wessex is also involved with a number of charities and organisations, particularly those connected with the performing arts, sport and young people.

Commenting on the appointment, Professor Dame Glynis Breakwell, Vice-Chancellor said: ‘As Chancellor, His Royal Highness can make a major contribution to the life of the University. He will be an excellent advocate for us both nationally and internationally.’

Chris Clements, President of the University of Bath Students’ Union added: ‘I’m looking forward to welcoming Prince Edward to the University of Bath as Chancellor. Our University is a wonderful place in which to live and study and his appointment as Chancellor will make the achievement of receiving a degree from Bath even more special than it is already.’