Actor Paterson Joseph announced as the next Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University
Oxford Brookes is pleased to announce Paterson Joseph as its new Chancellor.
Paterson Joseph is a successful British actor who has worked extensively on screen, television and in the theatre. He was born and raised in London and trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).
Paterson's on screen credits include Noughts And Crosses, Grantchester, Peep Show, Green Wing, In The Name Of The Father, The Beach and Neverwhere. He recently appeared on UK screens as Commander Neil Newsome in the BBC TV series, Vigil.
On stage, Paterson's theatre credits include A Christmas Carol (Old Vic) and King Lear (Royal Shakespeare Company).
Paterson will next be seen in the new feature film, Wonka. He recently released his debut novel, The Secret Diaries of Charles Ignatius Sancho, based on the true story of the 18th-century writer and composer who became the first Black person to vote in a British general election.
The Chancellor acts as the ceremonial figurehead of Oxford Brookes University. They also have an important ambassadorial role and serve as an advocate of the University, working to raise its profile and advance its interests nationally and internationally.
Paterson Joseph said: "I am so excited about my new role as Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University. My academic struggles were no barrier to my ambitions to be the best that I could be. To be someone who could contribute positively to society at large and to encourage those nearest me to do the same. I hope to help convey this positive message through my interactions with faculties and students at Oxford Brookes. A new adventure begins."
Professor Alistair Fitt, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University said: “Oxford Brookes is proud to have had a number of prestigious figures as Chancellor. They have truly inspired our students, staff, graduates and partners through their skills and expertise.
“I’m delighted to confirm Paterson Joseph as the University’s next Chancellor. Throughout the selection process, our staff, students and the Nominations Committee were hugely impressed by Paterson’s passion for education as a force for good, both at Oxford Brookes, and across society more broadly.
“Paterson continues to enjoy a very successful career and has a compelling story to tell about his journey- both professionally and personally. He speaks naturally to the values and guiding principles of Oxford Brookes and will be a powerful ambassador and advocate for the University.”
Peter Vicary-Smith, Chair of Board of Governors at Oxford Brookes University said: “In his own life Paterson has dared to dream, believing he could succeed in a highly competitive industry irrespective of social background and advantages. I look forward to him instilling that same ethos in students and prospective students from all backgrounds as we continue to build an ambitious and diverse student body at Oxford Brookes.”
Paterson will be installed as Chancellor at a ceremony to be held at Oxford Brookes next year.