The University of Cambridge came under pressure last week to announce a successor. He will be in this position for the next decade. The election was conducted via a new online voting system, in which about 23,000 alumni and former staff members voted. Lord Smith, who has strong ties with the university, said he was delighted to receive the honorary degree.
Lord Chris Smith, Pembroke College master since 2015. Prior to this position, he was the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport in the Labour administration from 1997 – 2001. He is perhaps best remembered for being the first openly gay Cabinet Minister in the world, something that he drew on extensively during his time in office. His large personal connections to the University of Cambridge have constituted as the biggest factor along with his election.
Our election process included ten candidates, including Lord Smith, who had the winning bid. Gina Miller proved to be the most formidable challenger. Sandi Toksvig left a strong imprint, remembered today for her unusual short blended white and blonde hair and deep career achievements as a top class Cambridge University graduate. Dr. Mohamed El-Erian came in second place in the election.
Lord Smith remarked on his election, saying, “To be elected as chancellor of the university I love is a huge honour. I’m thrilled.” He further added, “I look forward to being the best possible ambassador for Cambridge, to being a strong voice for higher education more generally, and to working closely together with the vice-chancellor and her team.”
The incoming vice-chancellor of the University of Cambridge, Prof Deborah Prentice, welcomed Lord Smith on his election. She stated, “On behalf of everyone at the University, I offer my warm congratulations to Chris on his election.”
