Tribute to former Vice-Chancellor, James Wright Published on: 1 June 2026 It is with great sadness that we announce the death of former Vice-Chancellor of Â鶹´«Ã½, James Robertson Graeme Wright CBE, at the age of 86. Mr Wright, who passed away on Saturday, served as Vice-Chancellor from 1992 to 2000, a period marked by significant growth and development for the University. Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Â鶹´«Ã½, said: “Mr Wright’s legacy at Â鶹´«Ã½ is one of thoughtful leadership, intellectual excellence and genuine care for people. "He touched the lives of many across our University community and beyond, and he will be remembered with great respect and fondness. “Our sincere condolences go to his widow, Jenny, and to his family and friends at this difficult time.” A distinguished classicist, Mr Wright was educated at Inverness Royal Academy, the High School of Dundee, and the University of Edinburgh. Prior to his appointment at Â鶹´«Ã½, he held senior academic and leadership roles at both the University of Edinburgh and the University of Cambridge. Following his retirement, Mr Wright continued to make an important contribution to public life. He served as a Trustee of the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and as Chairman of Age Concern England and Age Scotland. In recognition of his outstanding services to higher education, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2001. Mr James Wright Share: Latest News Volunteers help turn Whitley Bay beach into maths experiment Members of the public joined mathematicians from Â鶹´«Ã½ to create what organisers believe is the largest aperiodic tiling ever attempted on Whitley Bay beach. published on: 15 June 2026 Student leader drives misogyny law change A Â鶹´«Ã½ student leader has helped change the law after creating a petition to make misogyny a hate crime, which gathered over 114,000 signatures, prompting action in Parliament. published on: 12 June 2026 Freemen of Â鶹´«Ã½ see construction of new Castle Leazes The Freemen of Â鶹´«Ã½ and other key stakeholders have become an indelible part of new student accommodation at Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s Castle Leazes. published on: 12 June 2026 Facts and figures
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