Inauguration event marks Dragons’ Den star as Solent University’s new Chancellor

Solent University officially marked Dragons’ Den star and business entrepreneur, Theo Paphitis, as its new Chancellor at an inauguration ceremony last night (Thursday 11 October).

Having announced Theo as the new Chancellor earlier in the year, the inauguration ceremony was an opportunity to welcome, staff, students and VIPs to celebrate a key milestone for the University.

Theo Paphitis says: “I am looking forward to getting my teeth into my new University role. Solent University is in a fantastic position and, with its stellar teaching staff and ambitious students, has so much potential to keep rising up the rankings in all areas. In an increasingly competitive world, we have to be the best at what we do and I can’t wait to get started.”

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Graham Baldwin, says: “Theo joins us at an exciting and challenging time for higher education. No stranger to Solent or the broader sector, with two of his daughters graduating from the University, I am confident Theo’s appointment will help to strengthen our position as a local and global institution.

“Solent plays a key role in supporting local and regional economies, sharing knowledge, skills and resources with the local community. With his knowledge and experience from industry, Theo will also help us to strengthen partnerships and further enhance our commitment to real world learning.”

Theo takes over the position from Admiral The Right Honourable Lord West of Spithead, who served for 12 years, and will be Solent’s second Chancellor. With him, Theo brings his entrepreneurial and business experience to the University and its students.

As Chancellor, Theo will be the ceremonial head of the University and one of its most important ambassadors, representing the University externally, both nationally and internationally, working closely with the Vice-Chancellor and the Pro-Chancellor.

Theo will also preside over and confer degrees at award ceremonies and other formal functions, as well as acting as a figurehead for the University.