Veteran referee Uriah Rennie due to become next Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University
The footballing trailblazer, a proud Sheffielder, is to take over from Baroness Helena Kennedy LT KC
Uriah Rennie, a footballing trailblazer who was the first black referee to oversee Premier League games, is to be the next Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University.
He'll take over from Baroness Helena Kennedy LT KC, who is stepping down from the position after six years.
Uri officiated more than 300 games during his career, both domestically and internationally.
He grew up in Wybourn and studied for an MBA at Sheffield Hallam, before being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his contributions to sport.
He continues to campaign on a rage of issue, from mental health to inclusion in sport.
Uri Rennie said: “I’m delighted and excited to be rejoining Sheffield Hallam University to become the next Chancellor."
"As a proud Sheffielder, I have seen first-hand the immense benefits that the University brings to communities across the region.
“I want to pay tribute to those who have gone before me in this role, who have enabled the University to become such an integral part of the local, national and international educational community.
“I’m looking forward to working with students, the wider university community and the Vice-Chancellor to make a real difference, particularly on the issues that I’m passionate about, including providing all communities with the opportunity to transform their lives through education.”
Professor Liz Mossop, Vice-Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “Uri is a true Sheffield trailblazer who has broken down barriers and continues to campaign on important issues within our community."
"This makes him an ideal fit for Sheffield Hallam University and we are looking forward to working with him as our next Chancellor.
“I’d like to thank Baroness Kennedy for all she’s done during her six years as Chancellor. She is a pioneer in her field, and we are delighted that she will continue to be involved with the University through the world-leading Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice.”