New appointment announced: Professor Jolyon Mitchell takes the role of Principal
In a significant development, Professor Jolyon Mitchell has been appointed as the new Principal of St John's College, effective from 1 September 2023. The appointment, made by the St John's College Council, has been unanimously approved by the University Council.
Professor Mitchell, a graduate of St John's College and Durham University, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), is a distinguished figure in the world of academia, media, and peacebuilding. He is also a life member of Clare Hall, University of Cambridge.
The Bishop of Europe, The Right Reverend Dr Robert Innes, has expressed his delight at the appointment, praising Professor Mitchell as exceptionally gifted, with a wide range of sympathies and interests. He believes that Professor Mitchell will be an energetic, kind, and determined leader.
Professor Mitchell's academic career has been marked by his expertise in religion, violence, and peacebuilding. He currently specializes in these areas at the University of Edinburgh, where he is also the Director of CTPI (the Centre for Theology and Public Issues). His work includes directing projects such as "Peacebuilding and the Arts (Palgrave Macmillan, 2020)" and "The Wiley Blackwell Companion to Religion and Peace (2022)".
Before embarking on his academic career, Professor Mitchell worked as a producer and journalist with BBC World Service. He has also served on international film juries at the Cannes, Berlin, and Venice film festivals.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Professor Mitchell has worked with religious leaders from Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths, as well as Palestinian and Israeli journalists, on peacebuilding projects in Jerusalem and the West Bank.
Dr Rebecca Bouveng, Vice Principal of St John's College, is thrilled about Professor Mitchell's appointment. She believes that his media and communications expertise will be invaluable for the College's advancement and strategic communications, and his experience working with various faith groups will enrich their commitment to interfaith engagement and building a diverse and inclusive community.
Professor Mitchell, in response to his appointment, expressed his honour and enthusiasm for the new role, looking forward to working with the students and staff at St John's, and building on the College's outstanding legacy and unique community.
With his extensive background in academia, media, and peacebuilding, Professor Jolyon Mitchell is poised to bring a unique perspective and leadership to St John's College. His appointment is a testament to the College's commitment to fostering a diverse and dynamic academic community.
"Professor Mitchell's diverse background in academia, media, and peacebuilding aligns him perfectly with education-and-self-development initiatives at St John's College, offering students opportunities to explore various perspectives and build their understanding in these areas."
"The College's commitment to fostering a diverse and dynamic academic community is further assured with Professor Mitchell's appointment, as he will undoubtedly implement educational programs that promote interfaith engagement, critical thinking, and peacebuilding."
