WORLD-RENOWNED artist Professor Magdelene Odundo OBE has been named as the next chancellor of the University for the Creative Arts (UCA).

Former student Magdalene Odundo, who was professor of ceramics at UCA for many years, ahead of being appointed professor emerita, will step into her new role in June 2018, succeeding Dame Zandra Rhodes, who becomes chancellor emerita.

Professor Odundo graduated with a firs- class degree in ceramics, printmaking and photography from UCA’s Farnham campus, then known as the West Surrey College of Art and Design, in 1976.

“It is an honour to be invited to continue my relationship with a university I have been closely associated with over many years,” she said.

“The UCA has nurtured a whole host of internationally prominent artists who have contributed to every aspect of art and design. This list includes Dame Zandra Rhodes, who it is a privilege to be following as chancellor, as well as Tracey Emin, Simon Starling, Gareth Edwards, and Lord Richard Rogers.”

After graduation, the Kenyan-born artist combined teaching and further study with a ceramic art practice, which has seen her work collected in museums worldwide.

In 2001, UCA appointed her professor of ceramics, a post she held until her retirement last year. In 2008 she was awarded the OBE for services to the arts, and also received the African Art Recognition Award by Detroit Art Institute’s Friends of African and African-American Art.

In 2016, on her retirement from teaching, UCA awarded her the lifelong title of professor emerita to recognise her contribution to the university’s research culture.

As chancellor, Professor Odundo will act as the figurehead for the university which has campuses in Farnham, Canterbury, Epsom, and Rochester, along with teaching centres at Hampton Court Palace and Maidstone TV Studios. She will preside at its graduation ceremonies and confer degrees on its graduands.

UCA vice-chancellor Professor Bashir Makhoul said: “Professor Odundo is one of the world’s greatest contemporary potters and a continual source of inspiration to students at UCA. We are delighted that she is stepping into this role and are confident that she will be an excellent ambassador both for UCA and the subjects we teach.”

The chancellorship will be officially conferred on Professor Odundo at the first of UCA’s 2018 graduation ceremonies, taking place at London’s Royal Festival Hall on June 25, 2018.