The award-winning journalist, broadcaster and author Gavin Esler has been appointed as the sixth Chancellor of the University of Kent. Gavin graduated from Kent with a BA in English and American Literature in 1974 and is a member of Rutherford College. The new Chancellor will be during one of the University’s degree congregations in July. As Chancellor his duties will include conferring degrees, chairing the University’s Court and representing the University on special occasions.
The University was awarded Gavin an honorary MA in 1995 and an honorary Doctor of Civil Law in 2005. He succeeds Professor Sir Robert Worcester, who has retired from the position after seven years. He takes office at a time when the University is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
BBC Kent this week reported that Gavin felt that his time in Canterbury had been a great inspiration to him and that his new position would allow him to “help other young men and women to achieve their ambitions through a wonderful university experience.”
The School of English is delighted that the university will be welcoming Gavin back in this official capacity.