LSBU double alumna appointed first female Bishop of London
LSBU former governor, Sarah Mullally, has been appointed the first female Bishop of London, becoming the most senior woman bishop in the Church of EnglandIn addition to being a former governor at London South Bank University (LSBU), Sarah Mullally studied for her MSc at LSBU when the University was still a polytechnic. She was later made a fellow of LSBU in 2001 and in 2005 she became Deputy Chair of the University's Board of Governors for ten years until 2015.
Following a long 35 year career in nursing within the NHS, including holding the senior position of Chief Nursing Officer for England from 1999 to 2004, she became a Priest in 2006.
Sarah Mullally was made a dame in 2005 for services to nursing. She is the third woman to run a diocese and will take a seat in the House of Lords. She takes over the role of Bishop of London from Dr Richard Chartres, who retired in February.
Sarah said: "Having lived and worked in London for over 32 years, the thought of returning here is about returning home.
"I am often asked what it has been like to have had two careers, first in the NHS and now in the Church.
"I prefer to think that I have always had one vocation: to follow Jesus Christ, to know him and to make him known, always seeking to live with compassion in the service of others, whether as a nurse, a priest, or a bishop.
"To be given the opportunity to do that now in this vibrant world-city is a wonderful privilege."
David Longbottom, LSBU's former Chair of the University's Board of Governors, who worked with Sarah Mullally for ten years said: "I was delighted, but not surprised, to hear that Sarah had been appointed as the first woman Bishop of London.
"During her time as Vice Chair she demonstrated all the qualities required for senior office in helping guide the University through a challenging period of massive change. Sarah chaired a number of key committees and demonstrated great skill and judgment in finding solutions to complex problems that met the needs of staff, students and the wider South London Community. In particular she led the governing body that oversaw LSBU’s ability to meet its financial and student number targets and that approved policies concerning, the student experience, diversity and other key aspects of the University’s activities.
"Above all, as my deputy, I valued the advice, guidance and encouragement Sarah gave me during my time as Chair of the Board of Governors. She is blessed with great wisdom but carries out her responsibilities with humility and a light touch of humour which will serve her well in her new, high profile role."
Read more about Sarah Mullally’s past career.