Professor Tom Lawson - Inaugural Lecture

The fundamental question of the purpose of the University underpins many current debates about their future. This lecture will review the history of the idea of the University and offer a vision of their centrality to the future of our planet, our nation and perhaps most importantly, our region.

About Professor Tom Lawson

Professor Tom Lawson joined the University in 2026 from Northumbria University, where he served for 13 years in senior leadership roles, most recently as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost. Prior to this, he held leadership positions at the University of Winchester.

Professor Lawson began his academic career as Professor of Holocaust Studies at the University of Winchester before joining Northumbria University as Professor of History in 2013. He became Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Arts, Design and Social Sciences in 2016. In 2021, he was appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, leading the University's planning process, strategy delivery, and a series of transformational initiatives.

Professor Lawson is a passionate advocate for the higher education sector and deeply believes in the transformative power of universities and the vital role they play in changing lives and strengthening communities.