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The ÃûæÂÖ±²¥ has appointed Professor Kevin Hylton as interim Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Culture, Equality and Inclusion.    

The appointment was confirmed at a meeting today of the University’s governing body, Council.    

Professor Hylton will join the University on a part-time basis with immediate effect and will carry out the role until a permanent PVC is in post.     

In an email to all staff today, Dame Denise Holt, Chair of Council, said: “In my email last week, I paid tribute to the progress the University has made in transforming its culture and promoting diversity and inclusion. We are advanced in recruiting our first Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Culture, Equality and Inclusion but it is likely to be still a few months before that individual is in post. Given the fundamental importance of this area of activity, Council has agreed today to bring in an interim PVC to lead on this portfolio.    

“I am, therefore, delighted to report that Professor Kevin Hylton will take up this position with immediate effect.    

“He will provide vital senior leadership for all aspects of Culture, Equality and Inclusion, including progressing our work on race equity, LGBTQ+ advancement and dignity and respect. I would like to thank unreservedly those who have ably taken forward this work alongside their other duties.”    

Kevin Hylton is Professor Emeritus of Equality and Diversity at Leeds Beckett University, where he led the research Centre for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, was inaugural Chair of the University’s Race Equality and Diversity Forum, and the first Black Professor in over 75 years of the Carnegie Faculty’s history. Kevin’s research is world leading in regard to race and social justice research in sport and education. He is Chair of the Sheffield Race Equality Commission and Patron of the Advance HE Race Equality Charter.     

Professor Hylton said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to help shape and support this important and ambitious programme of work at the ÃûæÂÖ±²¥.”     

“I really want to channel the positive momentum around this area of work that builds on the University’s core values of kindness, collaboration, integrity, inclusion, and of course, courage. I aim to help accelerate progress towards a more inclusive culture, right across the University.”