The University of Sunderland has named Jeff Brown and former Sunderland MP, Julie Elliott as its Pro-Chancellors.
Brown left BBC Look North in March after 21 years presenting across the North East of England, on both the BBC and ITV Tyne Tees. Growing up in the region, his first job was at the Sunderland Echo.
He received an Honorary Fellowship from the University in 2010 in recognition of his outstanding achievement in sports journalism and broadcasting and in 2021, he officially launched the University’s £1.4m art, photography, and media facilities at St Peter’s Campus.
He and Elliott will work alongside current Chancellor, Leanne Cahill – CEO of retail company, Bravissimo – and Pro-Chancellor, James Ramsbotham CBE DL, in their new roles when current Pro-Chancellors, Margaret Fay CBE, and The Rt Hon Baroness Morris of Yardley PC (Estelle Morris), step down after their five-year term ends in July 2025.
“Margaret Fay and Estelle Morris have been outstanding ambassadors for the University of Sunderland during their time as Pro-Chancellors. As well as officiating at a large number of graduation ceremonies, they have provided invaluable help, assistance, and advice in many different ways and for that I am very grateful,” said Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland.
“Jeff Brown and Julie Elliott are well known figures in both Sunderland and the wider region and, together, they have helped to put our city firmly on the map. So I am delighted that two such inspirational figures will join us as Pro-Chancellors next year.”
As Pro-Chancellors, they will be ambassadors for the University and support the Chancellor by attending events and officiating at the University’s graduation ceremonies in Sunderland and London.
