Liverpool Hope University welcomes Professor Penny Haughan as Vice-Chancellor

Liverpool Hope University has officially marked a major new chapter as Professor Penny Haughan was formally inaugurated as the University’s new Vice-Chancellor and Rector.

The special ceremony, held earlier this month at the university’s Hope Park campus, brought together colleagues, partners and members of the wider Liverpool City Region to celebrate the start of Professor Penny Haughan’s leadership at a key moment for the institution.

Having officially stepped into the role in April 2026, Professor Haughan will now lead Liverpool Hope University through the next phase of its development, including delivering its ambitious strategic plans through to 2028.

But for many across the university, it’s also a familiar face stepping into the top role.

Professor Haughan has spent more than 30 years at Liverpool Hope, playing a major part in shaping both the student experience and the university’s academic direction.

Having first joined in 1995 as a biology lecturer, she has gone on to hold a number of senior leadership roles, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Life and Learning, Dean of Students and Dean of Sciences and Social Sciences.

She also helped steer the university through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and played a key role during Liverpool Hope’s transition to full university status in 2005.

During her time as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Haughan led major projects including the university’s Teaching Excellence Framework submission, while also helping Liverpool Hope achieve strong student satisfaction scores including top rankings across several areas in the North West in the latest National Student Survey.

She has also championed student-focused initiatives, including programmes supporting leadership opportunities for women.

Mrs Jane Beever, Chair of Council at Liverpool Hope University, said: “This inauguration is both a celebration and a statement of intent. Professor Haughan brings deep institutional knowledge, a passion for academic excellence, and a strong commitment to our students and community. Council is confident in her leadership as we continue to strengthen Liverpool Hope’s position and impact in the years ahead.”

Alongside her work at Liverpool Hope, Professor Haughan also supports the wider education sector through governance roles with institutions including Ravensbourne University London and Wirral Met College, as well as a primary school in Warrington.

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Haughan said: “It is a great privilege to be formally inaugurated as Vice-Chancellor of Liverpool Hope University. This institution has been central to my professional life, and I am proud to lead a community defined by its commitment to excellence, inclusion, and opportunity.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains on delivering outstanding teaching, impactful research, and a student experience that empowers individuals to thrive.”

The inauguration marks the beginning of a new chapter for Liverpool Hope University as it continues its commitment to education, research and creating opportunities across the Liverpool City Region and beyond.

Find out more about Hope University here.

Keep up to date with the latest news from the City Region here.

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