Dame Mary Archer Re-appointed as Chancellor of The University of Buckingham
25 February 2026
The University of Buckingham is delighted to announce the re-appointment of Dame Mary Archer for a second term as Chancellor, reaffirming her continued leadership at a landmark moment in the University’s history.
Dame Mary was formally installed for her second term during a special Convocation ceremony on Tuesday 24 February 2026, held at the Church of St Peter and St Paul in Buckingham.
Her re-appointment coincides with the beginning of the University’s 50th Anniversary year, celebrating five decades of independent thinking, academic excellence, and innovation since it opened in 1976.
Dame Mary has served as Chancellor since 2020, guiding the University through a period of significant transformation and challenge, including the pandemic.
Interim Vice-Chancellor David Cole highlighted her strategic insight and generosity of spirit:
“Dame Mary has been a wonderful Chancellor. Her commitment to our students, her grace at every graduation ceremony, her wisdom in counsel, and her tireless advocacy for Buckingham in the wider world have exemplified everything this institution represents.”
“Her leadership and her unwavering support for the University’s continued growth have been invaluable. We are deeply honoured that she continues to serve as our Chancellor and to champion all that makes Buckingham exceptional.”
A distinguished academic, scientist, and public servant, Dame Mary began her career as a physical chemist, teaching at Oxford and Cambridge, with research focused on sustainable energy. She has held numerous national leadership roles, including Chair of Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and was appointed Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE) for services to the NHS.
Speaking about her re-appointment, Dame Mary said:
“The University has a pioneering and student-oriented approach, and I am deeply honoured to remain its Chancellor as the University celebrates its 50th anniversary.”
Dame Mary Archer’s continued appointment reflects the University’s enduring commitment to its founding principles of academic excellence and student-centred learning, values that will be celebrated throughout Buckingham’s 50-year legacy.