The University has announced the appointment of journalist and broadcaster Jon Sopel as Pro-Chancellor.
Sopel, who graduated 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’s 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’s strategy. His role as Pro-Chancellor will take immediate effect.
“I’m very pleased to have been invited by the Vice-Chancellor and President, Sir Christopher Snowden, to become Pro-Chancellor at Southampton,” said Sopel, awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University in 2011. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student at Southampton and continue to engage regularly with the University so I’m very excited by the prospect of representing this world-leading institution more formally as I carry out my duties in the years to come.”
Dr Gill Rider, Chair of the University’s Council, said:
“We’re delighted that Jon Sopel has accepted our invitation to become Pro-Chancellor and we look forward to his engagement with the University’s leadership team and wider community as we extend our reputation both nationally and internationally.”
Professor Sir Christopher Snowden, Vice-Chancellor and President, said:
“Having a recognised Pro-Chancellor of Jon Sopel’s calibre makes a bold statement about the strength of Southampton’s alumni community and sends a clear signal of the University’s 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.”
