Hughes to become chancellor of London South Bank University

Sir Simon Hughes has been confirmed as the new executive chancellor of London South Bank University.

Sir Simon has hailed the positive impact London South Bank University (LSBU) has had on London as he takes up the post, in which the former MP and government minister succeeds business entrepreneur Richard Farleigh in an official ceremony this autumn.

The position of university chancellor is unpaid and partly ceremonial but Sir Simon has pledged to work actively to support the university as it strives to transform lives and provide opportunities for individuals, local business and the many diverse south London communities.

Sir Simon Hughes, who retired from active politics on July 11, said: “Over the past 30 years I have seen the very positive impact London South Bank University has had on the lives of thousands of local people. LSBU is a place that provides our communities with access to opportunity and delivers an excellent student experience to thousands every year.

“As chancellor, I will be able to combine my passion for education with my commitment to our South London communities.  I’m greatly looking forward to helping to build on the university’s success which in recent years has seen LSBU rocket up the university league tables and be named University of the Year for Graduate Employment.”     

Prof David Phoenix, vice-chancellor of LSBU said: “At LSBU our influence is increasingly global but we will always be rooted in South London. Simon has dedicated many years to the service of the local population and his appointment symbolises the importance of our local community in everything we do.”

The appointment has been welcomed across the political spectrum and comes just a few weeks after Simon Hughes announced he would be taking a step back from front line politics.

The Conservative peer, Baroness Perry of Southwark, said: “I am delighted to hear LSBU has secured Simon Hughes as its new chancellor. Simon has been a superb friend and supporter of the University for many years. His appointment will bring with it many enriching relationships while drawing on Simon’s huge range of interests in the years ahead.”

The Labour peer, Lord Kennedy of Southwark, said: “I am delighted to congratulate Sir Simon Hughes on his appointment as the new chancellor of London South Bank University. He has given over 32 tireless years’ public service to the local community. The appointment is both a fitting tribute and a wise choice by the University. Working with the vice-chancellor Professor David Phoenix and his senior management team, Sir Simon will play a key role in the next phase of LSBU’s development.”

The Liberal Democrat peer, Lord Palumbo of Southwark, said: “Simon Hughes is an inspired choice as our local university’s new chancellor. London South Bank University is now nationally recognised as a shining example of all the best qualities embodied in the modern university sector. Simon’s commitment, energy, experience, knowledge and vision will add huge extra value to LSBU. Watch out London South Bank – Simon will be a chancellor like none you have seen before!”

 The crossbench peer, Lord Ouseley of Peckham said: “Sir Simon is a highly credible and personable individual who will enhance the reputation of LSBU, both locally and internationally with his enthusiasm for education and for the respect he has for people of all backgrounds, characteristics and circumstances . He will champion equality, inclusion, diversity and cohesion and LSBU will be all the better for having Simon Hughes as it chancellor. A great choice for this position.”