Birmingham Newman University Appoints Martin Stringer as Chair of Council
Birmingham Newman University is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Martin Stringer as the new Chair of Council. Professor Stringer brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the university’s values and mission to shape positive futures through an inclusive, high-quality, University education.
The University’s Council plays a central role in the strategic governance of the University, responsible for the determination of the educational character and mission of the University and setting its vision, with its members acting both as company directors and charitable trustees.
Martin Stringer expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: “It is a privilege to take up the role of Chair of Council at Birmingham Newman University. I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with the university since teaching a course on Islam almost twenty years ago and working with the senior leadership on issues of validation. I am very pleased to be taking up the role at what is a very exciting time for the University. It is a great honour to work with other members of Council, with the Vice-Chancellor, the Leadership Team, and staff and students from across the University to shape the next phase in Birmingham Newman University’s future.”
Professor Jackie Dunne, Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham Newman University, welcomed the appointment, saying: “We are delighted to have Martin Stringer take up the role as Chair of Council. His extensive experience and dedication to higher education align perfectly with our values and mission. We look forward to working with Martin as our Chair to continue our commitment to providing a high-quality, inclusive education that supports and nurtures our students.”
Professor Martin Stringer served as Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at Swansea University from 2015 – 2022. He has also previously held the position of Head of Theology & Religion at the University of Birmingham. Trained as a social anthropologist, his research has focused on Christian groups in the UK and diversity among inner-city communities. His extensive experience in higher education and his commitment to academic excellence make him an invaluable addition to Birmingham Newman University.
Birmingham Newman University would also like to extend its heartfelt thanks to Professor Emeritus Margaret A House OBE who stepped down as Chair. While Margaret joined the University’s Council in March 2021 and was appointed Chair of Council from January 2022, having begun her engagement with the University a number of years prior to this. Her leadership of the Council and dedication to its work has been instrumental in guiding the University through a period of significant growth and development in what was also a turbulent and challenging time, not least through the Covid pandemic. We are grateful for her service and wish her all the best for the future.