11/05/2026
We are delighted to announce that Carol Shanahan OBE has been appointed as the new Chancellor of Keele University 💚
A highly respected business and community leader, and Chair of Port Vale FC, Carol has made an extraordinary contribution to communities in our local area.
In 2018, Carol founded the Hubb Foundation to support children and families during school holidays. Now serving as a trustee and patron, the charity reached a remarkable milestone in 2024 - providing its one millionth free meal.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Carol also led the transformation of Port Vale into a vital community hub. Bringing together volunteers, businesses and charities, they coordinated the delivery of more than 350,000 meals to homes across Stoke-on-Trent.
Carol was awarded an honorary degree by Keele University in 2022 in recognition of her outstanding service to the community, and received an OBE in 2020 for services to the people of Stoke-on-Trent.
She becomes the sixth Chancellor in Keele’s history, and the first woman to hold the role since Princess Margaret, who served from 1962 to 1986.
As Chancellor, Carol will hold the University’s most senior honorary position, including presiding over graduation ceremonies and representing the University at key events.
Carol said: “I’m honoured beyond words. I’ve long admired the important role Keele University plays across the region and beyond, and its commitment to creating positive social impact and widening opportunity closely reflects the values that have guided my own work over many years.”
➡️ https://bit.ly/4tSESxo
