Professor Karen Stanton officially welcomed at special ceremony in York Minster

The inauguration ceremony included symbolic gift giving by representatives of the University community and music was provided by the Graduation Brass Ensemble and the University Chamber Choir.

In her inaugural speech Professor Stanton said: “York St John’s strong adherence to its founding values allows it to stand proudly apart. York St John is identifiably different. We know clearly where we are going, but we care deeply about how we get there.

“Vice Chancellors are merely temporary custodians of institutions. We are here to nurture, cherish and grow the University, preparing it to meet the needs and challenges of the generations who will follow.”

Welcoming Professor Stanton to the University, The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dr John Sentamu said: “I warmly welcome Professor Karen Stanton to her new role as the Vice Chancellor of York St John University.

“She brings a wealth of experience to the University and her enthusiasm is a great asset to the York St John community. I am delighted that she is joining us.”

Professor Karen Stanton joined York St John University as Vice Chancellor in September 2015. Prior to her appointment, she was Deputy Vice Chancellor at Glasgow Caledonian University. She has also held positions at King’s College London and at the universities of Nottingham, Birmingham and Sheffield Hallam.

Professor Stanton is currently a member of UUK, GuildHE and the Cathedrals Group and was previously a Director on the JISC Advance Board and on the National Committee of Inquiry in to the Changing Learner Experience. She is a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Arts and the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. She is also an Ambassador for the Uprising Charity aimed at developing the leadership skills of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and for the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award which aims to encourage young people to develop relevant Digital and Enterprise Skills.

Vice Chancellor Professor Karen Stanton is pictured above (on the left) with Pro Chancellor Ann Green CBE.