Our University’s Chancellor, Lemn Sissay OBE has written a poem to mark the end of his seven-year tenure.

Our warm relationship with Lemn is set to continue as he now becomes an alumnus and an honorary chair in creative writing.

‘Gift of time’ is a paean to our people – our students, staff, alumni and prospective students – who have made Lemn’s journey a joy.

The feeling is mutual. As Nancy says: “Lemn has been an amazing supporter of our University, bringing life to the role – a ceremonial office with significant ambassadorial responsibilities – thanks to his star quality and wholehearted enthusiasm. It has been a pleasure working with him.”

Highights of Lemn’s tenure as Chancellor include Marcus Rashford becoming our youngest ever honorary graduate for his passionate campaign against child poverty and, he said, “being surrounded by incredibly intelligent people who match their intelligence with integrity – the way they apply their knowledge to the community and to themselves is outstanding.”

• Watch our film in which Lemn performs ‘Gift of Time’