In brief
Hague will serve a 10-year term after a closely contested election process.
The University of Oxford has announced the appointment of William Hague, a notable figure in British politics and former leader of the Conservative Party, as its new chancellor. In a tightly contested election, Hague secured the role against Elish Angiolini, a lawyer and principal of St. Hugh’s College, who would have been Oxford's first female chancellor.The election, which saw participation from around 25,000 alumni and staff, concluded with Hague receiving 12,609 votes to Angiolini's 11,006. He will officially commence his decade-long term at the beginning of the next year, becoming Oxford’s 160th chancellor. The position, although primarily ceremonial, encompasses vital advocate and fundraising responsibilities, underscoring its importance to the university's future and the broader UK landscape.“I am deeply honored to assume the chancellorship of this illustrious institution,” Hague stated, emphasizing his belief in the crucial role Oxford will play in shaping the future of the United Kingdom over the next ten years. The election process for the chancellorship was marked by a diverse array of candidates, including a zumba teacher and an Anglican clergyman with anti-woke views, showcasing the unique and sometimes unconventional aspects of Oxford’s governance.Despite anticipation and hopes for a historic first female chancellor, the vote concluded with Hague as the victor, stirring discussions on representation within such prestigious roles. Angiolini, however, remains a prominent figure due to her significant contributions to legal advocacy, including conducting a public inquiry into the tragic murder of Sarah Everard last year.With the election concluded and Hague preparing for his term, the focus now shifts to how he will steer the university's influence and outreach in a rapidly changing educational climate.
