The University has announced the appointment of journalist and broadcaster Jon Sopel as Pro-Chancellor.
Sopel,聽who graduated聽from the University in 1981 with a BSc in Politics and Sociology, has enjoyed a distinguished career with the BBC and currently serves as North America Editor based in Washington, DC.
As Pro-Chancellor, he will deputise for Southampton鈥檚 Chancellor, Dame Helen Alexander, presiding over graduation ceremonies and playing an active role in the future development of the University. Sopel will also play a key ambassadorial role for Southampton through activities linked to the University鈥檚 strategy. His role as Pro-Chancellor will take immediate effect.
鈥淚鈥檓 very pleased to have been invited by the Vice-Chancellor and President, Sir Christopher Snowden, to become Pro-Chancellor at Southampton,鈥� said Sopel, awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University in 2011. 鈥淚 thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student at Southampton and continue to engage regularly with the University so I鈥檓 very excited by the prospect of representing this world-leading institution more formally as I carry out my duties in the years to come.鈥�
Dr Gill Rider, Chair of the University鈥檚 Council, said:
鈥淲e鈥檙e delighted that Jon Sopel has accepted our invitation to become Pro-Chancellor and we look forward to his engagement with the University鈥檚 leadership team and wider community as we extend our reputation both nationally and internationally.鈥�
Professor Sir Christopher Snowden, Vice-Chancellor and President, said:
鈥淗aving a recognised Pro-Chancellor of Jon Sopel鈥檚 calibre makes a bold statement about the strength of Southampton鈥檚 alumni community and sends a clear signal of the University鈥檚 intentions to build on those strengths as we progress our plans for the future. We look forward to working closely with Jon as his role develops in the years to come.鈥�
