New Chancellor elected

HRH The Princess Royal has been elected as Chancellor of the University.

She succeeds HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, who stepped down from the role in 2010, having held it since 1953.

The Princess Royal has been elected as Chancellor with effect from March 31st, 2011.

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

She will be the University’s eighth Chancellor in the 150-year history of the position.

I am delighted that The Princess Royal is to become our new Chancellor and I welcome her to this important role at the heart of University life.

The role of Chancellor

The Chancellor is Chairman of the General Council and nominates an Assessor in the University Court.

Degrees are conferred by the Chancellor, or by the Vice-Chancellor.

The election of the Chancellor is the responsibility of the General Council of the University.

I am certain that the appointment of HRH The Princess Royal as Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh will be welcomed enthusiastically by all General Council members, and it will be of immense benefit to the whole University community.

The University’s Chancellors

1953–2010

HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

1946–1952

The Marquis of Linlithgow

1937–1946

Baron Tweedsmuir of Elsfield

1930–1937

Sir James Matthew Barrie, Bt

1891–1930

The Earl of Balfour

1868–1891

The Right Hon. John Inglis

1859–1868

Baron Brougham and Vaux