Oxford University has chosen William Hague as its new chancellor following a competitive election amongst alumni and staff.
William Hague Elected Chancellor of Oxford University
William Hague Elected Chancellor of Oxford University
Former Conservative Party Leader Will Begin 10-Year Term in Early 2025
The University of Oxford has made a significant announcement regarding its new leadership. On November 27, 2024, it was revealed that William Hague, the previous leader of Britain’s Conservative Party, has been elected to serve as the university's next chancellor. Mr. Hague emerged victorious from a pool of candidates, securing the position in a closely contested vote against Elish Angiolini, who would have made history as the institution's first female chancellor.
In an online ballot involving approximately 25,000 alumni and staff, Hague received 12,609 votes, narrowly defeating Angiolini, who garnered 11,006 votes. The election was marked by a diverse range of candidates, including a zumba teacher and an Anglican clergyman expressing anti-woke sentiments, from an original field of 38 hopefuls. As the newly elected chancellor, Hague will begin his 10-year term at the start of 2025, becoming the 160th individual to hold the ceremonial position, which includes roles in advocacy and fundraising.
During a statement following his election, Hague expressed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of Oxford’s direction in the coming decade. “What happens at Oxford in the next decade is critical to the success of the U.K.,” he stated, recognizing the honor of leading such a prestigious institution.
Prior to this election, Angiolini had a prominent public profile, notably leading a public inquiry into the tragic case of Sarah Everard, a London woman whose murder sparked a national conversation about women's safety. Although the election did not result in a breakthrough for a female chancellor after 800 years, Hague’s victory marks a fascinating chapter in the storied history of Oxford University leadership.
In an online ballot involving approximately 25,000 alumni and staff, Hague received 12,609 votes, narrowly defeating Angiolini, who garnered 11,006 votes. The election was marked by a diverse range of candidates, including a zumba teacher and an Anglican clergyman expressing anti-woke sentiments, from an original field of 38 hopefuls. As the newly elected chancellor, Hague will begin his 10-year term at the start of 2025, becoming the 160th individual to hold the ceremonial position, which includes roles in advocacy and fundraising.
During a statement following his election, Hague expressed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of Oxford’s direction in the coming decade. “What happens at Oxford in the next decade is critical to the success of the U.K.,” he stated, recognizing the honor of leading such a prestigious institution.
Prior to this election, Angiolini had a prominent public profile, notably leading a public inquiry into the tragic case of Sarah Everard, a London woman whose murder sparked a national conversation about women's safety. Although the election did not result in a breakthrough for a female chancellor after 800 years, Hague’s victory marks a fascinating chapter in the storied history of Oxford University leadership.
