In a historic announcement, it has been revealed that Rev Canon Professor Sarah Foot Ph.D., FRHistS, FSA has been appointed as the Dean of Christ Church, Oxford by the King.
This appointment marks a significant moment in the 500-year-long history of the prestigious college, as Rev Canon, Professor Sarah Foot will be the first woman to hold the position.
The appointment of Rev Canon Professor Sarah Foot has been widely praised by members of the academic community, with many describing it as a progressive step forward for the university. Her extensive experience in academia and research has positioned her as an ideal candidate for the role, and her appointment is expected to bring new perspectives and ideas to the college.
In a report by the Diocese of Oxford, the appointed Dean said: “It is an honour to have been appointed to this role and to work alongside the Governing Body to serve the students, academics, staff, Chapter and congregation of Christ Church. As we approach our 500th anniversary, we can ensure that Christ Church continues to excel in advancing education, learning and religion long into the future.
“Together, we must make a success of the Governance Review process and see through changes that will be necessary when it’s complete. This work is vital. It will give our colleagues the structures that they need to do what matters most to all of us: offering teaching and research, and a Cathedral liturgy, of the highest quality.”
Following the change in leadership, an independent review of the administration of the Church is ahead and it is to be chaired by Dominic Grieve KC. The implementation of the leadership change requires approval from the University, Church of England, the Privy Council, and Parliament.
In a statement by the Bishop of Oxford, Steven Croft, he said: “I’m delighted to welcome Sarah’s appointment as Dean of Christ Church in this key period in the life of the College and the Cathedral following her long tenure as one of our four Canon Professors in the Cathedral. Sarah combines a distinguished career as an historian, a deep personal faith and reservoirs of wisdom from her experience of leadership of Christ Church in recent months. I look forward very much to working in partnership with Sarah in the coming years in the implementation of the governance review and as a member of the Bishop’s senior leadership team across the Diocese of Oxford.”
Rev Canon Professor Sarah Foot has a distinguished career in academia, with a PhD in Medieval History from the University of Cambridge and a Fellowship of the Royal Historical Society and the Society of Antiquaries of London. She has also served as the Religious Professor of Ecclesiastical History at the University of Oxford, and her work has been widely published and acclaimed. The professor, who has held various positions of leadership and academic distinction throughout her career, is expected to bring a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. She is known for her pioneering research on the history of Christianity and her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within academic institutions.
Christ Church is one of the most prestigious colleges in Oxford, with a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. As the Dean, Rev Canon Professor Sarah Foot will be responsible for leading the college and overseeing its academic and administrative operations. Her appointment is expected to bring new energy and vision to the college, and many are eagerly anticipating the changes she will bring.
