News Editor Atshiga Bonvin reports on the installation of the new Chancellor, Sandie Okra OBE
During a special ceremony held in Bramall Music Building, the University of Birmingham installed Sandie Okoro OBE as the new Chancellor.
Being only the eighth Chancellor since the University opened in 1900, former alumni Okoro succeeds Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea CBE, and was welcomed to the University by Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council Mervyn Walker, alongside over 300 guests. Both students and staff came together to celebrate the Chancellor’s addition to the University, with a surprise gift of a bespoke brooch gifted to mark her installation. The brooch was made by the University’s research partner, Cooksongold, and sister partner, Weston Beamor. The research explores ways of overcoming the challenges of 3D printing precious metals.
The role of the Chancellor is to be the ceremonial head of the University, acting as a representative and advocate, whether that is regionally or globally. They are also present at graduation ceremonies, celebrating and honouring students.
Sandie Okoro OBE commented: ‘I am both excited and honoured to become the first female Chancellor in the long history of the University of Birmingham – one of Britain’s great universities.’
Sandie Okoro OBE commented: ‘I am both excited and honoured to become the first female Chancellor in the long history of the University of Birmingham – one of Britain’s great universities.’
‘It is a very special feeling for me to come home to the University as alumna and Chancellor, as we prepare for the excitement of celebrating our 125th anniversary next year. I look forward to making this momentous year with the staff and students who make the University of Birmingham such a wonderful place.’
The installation was marked by the introduction of ‘Chancellor’s Scholarships’ in 2025, for high-achieving, international postgraduate students.
Okoro studied Politics and Law at the University of Birmingham, then qualified as a barrister at City, University of London. Currently the Group General Counsel of Standard Counselling, Okoro brings an incredible record of accolades to the University which recognise her contributions to diversity, equality, and female rights. In 2024, Okoro was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 2024 New Year Honours for her services to Diversity in International Finance.
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Birmingham, Adam Tickell, commented: ‘As the University of Birmingham prepares to celebrate its 125th birthday next year, we are proud to officially install Sandie Okoro OBE as our new Chancellor.’
‘A proud alumna of this University, she is globally recognised as an inspirational and highly respected trailblazer in the corporate legal sector.’
He continues: ‘Sandie is one of the UK’s most respected lawyers and a high-profile equality rights champion with a remarkable contribution to diversity, equality, and female rights. A proud alumna of this University, she is globally recognised as an inspirational and highly respected trailblazer in the corporate legal sector.’
Okoro has also received a lifetime achievement award from the UK Black Solicitors Network and was named one of the Power 100 Women by City A.M. and 100 Women to Watch by Female FTSE Board.
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