Huge congratulations to Magdalen alumnus Lord Hague of Richmond (1979), who has been formally admitted as the 160th Chancellor of the University of Oxford in a ceremony at the Sheldonian Theatre today. His appointment follows his election victory last November.
In his address, Lord Hague expressed gratitude and excitement for the role, pledging to uphold Oxford’s excellence and welcome the brightest minds regardless of background. He emphasized the university’s vital role in driving British prosperity through research and innovation.
He also talked about his Matriculation here at Magdalen, and how much Oxford has changed for the better since then. His references to the Magdalen community have shown how, even after graduation, the friendships formed here can last a lifetime. He is the first University Chancellor to have come from Magdalen in 469 years.
At my matriculation as a Magdalen undergraduate here in the Sheldonian I sat with a group of friends I had just met. I am very touched that the same group of friends is sitting here now: we have kept in contact ever since.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey welcomed him, praising his integrity, wisdom, and dedication to Oxford’s mission.
Hague studied PPE at Magdalen before launching a distinguished political career first as Leader of the Opposition (1997-2001), then serving as Foreign Secretary (2010–2014) and co-founding the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict campaign. Since leaving government, he has focused on business, charity, and writing.
Lord Hague will serve a 10-year term in a role that dates back over 800 years.
Read his full admission speech here
Watch his full admission speech here
photo: John Cairns for University of Oxford