Convocation

The University’s Statutes include provision for a convocation of the University consisting of the vice-chancellor, the deputy vice-chancellor, the pro-vice-chancellors, and all persons entitled to be registered as members of the convocation.

These are:
(1) all alumni of the University
(2) those alumni of the University of Durham who were during their courses registered students of the Newcastle Division of the University of Durham before 1 August 1963
(3) those alumni of the University of Durham who were during their courses matriculated students at Sunderland Technical College
(4) such other persons or classes of persons as the court may from time to time decide upon the recommendation of the senate.

The convocation is required to hold at least one meeting each year at which it may discuss and make representations on any matter relating the University. By tradition, the meeting includes an update on University business from the vice-chancellor. The convocation also appoints the Chancellor on the nomination of the court and senate sitting in joint session.

The Acting Chair of Convocation is Clare Talbot-Jones (BA (Hons) Modern Languages, 2004).

Notice of Meeting

The next meeting of Convocation will be held online on Friday 4 July at 13.00. Please contact governanceoffice@newcastle.ac.uk for details. 

Minutes of Previous Meetings

Please select the following link for the Minutes from the Convocation meeting held on 13 July 2024.

2025 Election of Chair

Every 3 years, Convocation is invited to elect a new Chair under procedures as decided by University Court. The current term of office will come to an end in November 2025 and an election process for the role of Chair will take place in October 2025. The procedures for the 2025 election are set out below.

To take part in the election, anyone who is eligible to be a member of Convocation is invited to nominate themselves to stand for the position of Chair by submitting a candidate statement of no more than 250 words to governanceoffice@newcastle.ac.uk by 31 August 2025.

Voting is by registration only. If you are eligible to be a member of Convocation and would like to vote in this election, please register by completing this form by 17.00 (BST) on 14th September 2025 Newcastle University Chair of Convocation 2025; Elector Registration Form. All those who register by the deadline will be contacted with information on the next stages of the process.

A role descriptor for the Chair of Convocation can be found at Chair_of_Convocation - Role Description.