Celebrating 60 years as Chancellor

In 2010 HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh retired from the role of Chancellor of the University after almost 60 years.

Since his installation as Chancellor in 1953, HRH has provided invaluable support and guidance to senior University officers, staff and students alike.

Here we celebrate the former Chancellor’s six decades of service to the University.

In pictures

Six decades of service

In 1953 HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh became Chancellor of the University.

Almost 60 years later His Royal Highness retired from the role and 2011 saw the instalment of HRH The Princess Royal as his successor.

Since his installation as Chancellor in 1953, His Royal Highness has overseen the University’s development.

His passionate belief in the positive benefits of education as well as an innate inquisitiveness in scientific development has been evident during his time as Chancellor.

He has conferred a number of honorary degrees to contemporary world figures, and has formally opened a huge number of University buildings.

Beyond this, he has always been keen to see the on-the-ground results of the research work carried out by staff and students, and to provide encouragement wherever possible.

A new era

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal was installed as the Chancellor of the University on Monday 26 September 2011.

The event took place at the Old College Quadrangle and heralded the reopening of the quad following a significant landscaping project.

The ceremony took place in front of staff and students and was followed by refreshments on Old College lawn.

The Princess Royal is the University’s eighth Chancellor in the 150-year history of the position.

She is also Patron of the University’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.