Trinity welcomes two new Pro-Chancellors
Posted on: 18 September 2024
Rachel Hussey and Professor Jürgen Barkhoff have been inaugurated at special ceremonies in the University.
Pro-Chancellor Rachel Hussey with Provost Linda Doyle
Speaking of the new Pro-Chancellors, Trinity’s Provost Linda Doyle said ‘Rachel and Jürgen are truly exceptional people who bring Trinity’s values to life in all that they do. Rachel is a leading advocate for gender diversity in the legal profession and beyond, and Jürgen - with his deep commitment to education and the humanities - has played a central role in Trinity since he joined us in 1995. I am so proud that they have agreed to take up these positions and know that our students and staff will be greatly inspired by them during their tenure.’
Pro-Chancellors Rachel Hussey and Jürgen Barkhoff
Rachel Hussey is a Trinity graduate, Foundation Scholar and winner of a Gold Medal in Law. Now Clients and Markets Partner at Arthur Cox, she was called to the Irish Bar in 1989 and admitted to the New York Bar in 1990. Rachel’s legal career is inspiring, as is her tireless dedication to gender equality. Among other achievements, she was Chair of the 30% Club Ireland from 2019-2020, sat on the Governing Authority of Dublin City University from 2017-203 and is a governor of the National Maternity Hospital.
‘It is a huge honour for me to be admitted as Pro-Chancellor of Trinity College Dublin,’ said Rachel Hussey. ‘I have always felt a strong connection with the University. I first came here as an undergraduate to study law, a decision which has had immeasurable impact on my life, and three of my four children have studied at Trinity, so it holds a special place in my heart. The graduation ceremony is such an important part of the student experience and I am very much looking forward to being part of it.’
Pro-Chancellor Rachel Hussey with her children
An expert in German literature and culture, Jürgen Barkhoff has held many senior roles in Trinity, including Director of the Trinity Long Room Hub Arts and Humanities Research Institute from 2012 to 2015 and Vice-Provost, Chief Academic Officer and Deputy President from 2019 to 2021, among others. Jürgen has also represented Trinity at the Coimbra Group, a network of European Universities of which Trinity College Dublin is a member. He was Chair of its Culture, Arts and Humanities Task Force from 2006 to 2011 and Vice-Chair of its Executive Board from 2012 to 2021.
Pro-Chancellor Jürgen Barkhoff with his wife, Doris
‘Graduation day is one of the most joyful occasions of the academic year,’ said Professor Jürgen Barkhoff. ‘I am truly honoured to be appointed to the role of Pro-Chancellor of Trinity and to take part in commencement ceremonies when we wish our graduates well as they venture out into the world.’
Professor Mary McAleese is Chancellor of the University. Pro-Chancellors may act in place of the Chancellor such as when awarding degrees to graduates of the University of Dublin.
Appointment to the office of Chancellor or Pro-Chancellor is the highest honour the University can bestow.
Pro-Chancellor Jürgen Barkhoff with Provost Linda Doyle