Liverpool Hope University ushered in a new era as Professor Claire Ozanne was officially inaugurated as the new Vice-Chancellor and Rector.
The landmark occasion was celebrated with a special ceremony at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral on Thursday 13 July, where staff, students, alumni and a host of civic dignitaries were all in attendance.
Having joined Liverpool Hope in the spring of 2023, the inauguration formally installed Professor Ozanne as the fourth Vice-Chancellor and Rector in the University’s history and she used the occasion as an opportunity to express her thanks for the welcome across the city.
“I would like to convey my enormous thanks to all of you for being here today to share in such a wonderful occasion and for the warmth with which you have all welcomed me to Hope and to the city,” she said.
“In particular, my thanks goes to those who have worked so hard to organise this beautiful inauguration, so full of joy and energy.
“The gifts which I have received are symbols of the commitment of the Hope community to serve the Common Good, in our region, nationally and internationally.”
The inauguration ceremony featured several performances from staff and students from across the University.
Organist Dr Rebekah Okpoti delivered a recital of a song she composed specifically for the occasion, whilst second year Musical Theatre student Isabella Guthrie performed Green Finch and Linnet Bird from Sweeney Todd.
And, as the University prepares to embark on a new era Professor Ozanne reflected on the importance of leadership and the role universities can play in the lives of students.
“As leaders of universities, often with long histories of championing higher education for underrepresented groups, we are stewards of complex organisations committed to education, personal support and development of staff and students, the creation of new knowledge and the translation of that knowledge into solutions for global problems,” she added.
“However, we can all be leaders and influencers of others in our daily lives and as a University, we particularly want our students to be empowered to take learning and the personal development they have experienced in their time with us, to lead and influence others in society.”
Liverpool Hope University Chancellor and renowned space scientist, Professor Monica Grady added: “I am delighted to witness a fellow female scientist being appointed to lead this fine university, as it begins the next chapter in its rich heritage of providing academic excellence.
“Professor Claire Ozanne’s career highlights a passion for education and should serve as inspiration for our new graduates, as they embark on their own career journeys in the coming weeks.
“I wish Professor Ozanne every success in her role as Vice-Chancellor and look forward to serving alongside her.”