University of East Anglia appoint Dame Jenny Ambramsky as Chancellor

The dame says it's a real honour.

Dame Jenny Abramsky
Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 23rd Apr 2024

Dame Jenny Abramsky has been named as the new Chancellor of the University of East Anglia.

After graduating from UEA in 1968 with a BA in English, Dame Abramsky pursued a career in news media, with nearly 40-years at the BBC spanning radio, television and online platforms.

In 2003, Jenny was welcomed back to UEA as an Honorary Graduate, receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Letters from the University. She becomes the eighth Chancellor in UEA’s history.

Dame Abramsky said: “It is a real honour to take on the role of Chancellor at UEA. I have a great many fond memories from my time as a student at the University, and have kept a close eye on its progress ever since, so to be able to return in this capacity is a source of huge personal pride.

“I am already looking forward to my time on campus meeting staff and students, promoting the University’s work in the wonderful city of Norwich and wider region and, of course, being able to celebrate with our graduates when they collect their degrees in July.

"A few things have changed since I graduated here, but the sense of achievement that comes with completing your degree will always be special, and I can’t wait to share some of that joy this summer.”

UEA Vice-Chancellor Prof David Maguire said: “I couldn’t be more delighted to have Jenny joining UEA as Chancellor. Her legacy at the BBC speaks for itself, and she has launched a variety of programmes, channels and digital that are now British institutions but at the time were genuinely groundbreaking.

“I’m looking forward to working with Jenny and for UEA to benefit from her innovation and vast knowledge of the various industries she has worked in.

"I’m certain that her achievements, as well as the application and dedication she’s applied to her craft throughout her career, will serve as inspiration to our students and staff when she joins our graduation ceremonies in the summer.”

Jenny succeeds Dame Karen Jones as Chancellor, who was appointed in 2016.

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