UNI ROLE ‘TOO GOOD TO PASS UP’ FOR LEVISON
TV explorer set to take on ‘prestigious’ chancellor job in May
WORLD-RENOWNED explorer Levison Wood has been named as the new chancellor of Staffordshire University.
The 41-year-old, from Forsbrook, says he’s ‘honoured’ to take on ‘such a prestigious role’.
The former Painsley Catholic College student spent several years as a regular officer in the British Parachute Regiment, serving in Afghanistan before making his small-screen debut in 2015 when he became the first person to walk the length of the River Nile.
The best-selling author and photographer has filmed in more than 100 countries, travelling through jungles, deserts and war zones. Levison, who was made an Honorary Doctor of Staffordshire University in 2017, said: “I grew up in Stoke-on-trent and Staffordshire and am incredibly honoured to be asked to take on such a prestigious role with my local university.
“As a boy I started out exploring the Peak District and that, combined with my experience of studying a history degree at Nottingham University, prepared me well for a lifetime of adventure.
This opportunity to inspire others to be who they want to be and push boundaries is too good to pass up.” Professor Martin Jones, vicechancellor and chief executive, left, said: “Major Levison Wood is the embodiment of what Staffordshire University is about. In the ambassadorial role of chancellor, Levison will demonstrate to our students and wider community that Staffordshire is a place of possibility where dreams are made, and success is real.
“We are thrilled that he has agreed to take on the role and I am confident he will help to champion the university’s unique talents, ideas and personalities so we can continue to drive change and deliver success.
“As this is a great Staffordshire story, we have agreed that Levison will be installed in a special ceremony to be held on May 1 – Staffordshire Day.”
Levison will take over the ceremonial appointment from the Lord Stafford DL Frags who has proudly served the university as chancellor since 2014. He will become the fourth chancellor in the university’s history, following Lord Morris of Handsworth and Lord Ashley of Stoke.