Members of the University community gathered at The Woodlands at the beginning of July to formally celebrate and thank Nigel Rawlinson for his exceptional service as University Chaplain since 2016.
Nigel came to the University following a distinguished career in the NHS, bringing with him a deep sense of compassion, care, and community spirit. Over the past nine years, he has become a trusted and valued figure across the University, known for his ability to support individuals and teams through moments of difficulty, grief, and uncertainty, as well as times of reflection and growth.
Throughout his time here, Nigel has provided spiritual guidance, conducted funerals, and offered pastoral support to both staff and students. His work has often gone beyond traditional expectations, encompassing cross-departmental engagement and collaboration with professional services, and consistently demonstrating his ability to respond with empathy and insight.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigel played a crucial role in maintaining community wellbeing, offering both emotional and spiritual support during an unprecedented period of disruption and isolation. He was instrumental in building connections between the Chaplaincy, Student Support, and Staff Wellbeing teams, reinforcing a holistic approach to care within the University.
A champion of inclusion, Nigel strengthened interfaith dialogue and led the expansion of campus faith spaces. Since the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Gaza in 2023, Nigel has provided quiet but vital leadership, facilitating meaningful dialogue between different faith communities. His calm, thoughtful approach has helped maintain a sense of unity, compassion, and shared humanity at a particularly sensitive time.
Jane White, VP, Community & Inclusion said:
There are a small number of roles across the University that have a broad remit and wide reach, spanning staff and students, academic and professional services, internal-facing and with significant links to our local and regional community. Nigel made his role as our University Chaplain one that did exactly that. At its core, Nigel has used his role as University Chaplain to care for our community.
Jane praised Nigel’s quiet strength, dedication to diversity of thought, and lasting contributions to building a truly inclusive community. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and service - for which the University is deeply grateful.