‘Sheffield trailblazer’ named chancellor of university

Uriah (Uri) Rennie, the first black referee to officiate Premier League matches and a committed community advocate, has officially been appointed as the new chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University.

At a ceremony held on May 8, attended by university staff, students, alumni, and civic leaders, Uri was formally installed as chancellor. 

Raised in a working-class neighbourhood in Sheffield’s east end, Uri’s career as a FIFA and FA football referee saw him officiate over 300 matches. 

Beyond the pitch, he has been a vocal campaigner for equity, equality and inclusion in sport, mental health support and tackling community deprivation – issues he will continue to champion during his tenure as chancellor.

A long-time supporter of Sheffield Hallam, Uri earned an MBA from the university while still officiating and was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2023 for his contributions to sport and his work with resilient communities across South Yorkshire.

Uri said: “I’m immensely proud to become chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, and I’m looking forward to working with students, the wider university community and the vice-vhancellor to make a real difference.

“I intend to immerse myself in university life as chancellor, making myself approachable, visible and accessible during my time in this key role as an ambassador for Sheffield Hallam and the wider region.

“I would like to work to inspire and encourage young people from the types of communities I was raised in to take advantage of the new opportunities and resources the university offers.”

Uri succeeds Baroness Helena Kennedy LT KC, who served as chancellor for six years. 

Baroness Kennedy, a patron of the university’s Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice, will remain closely involved in the centre’s work.

Professor Liz Mossop, vice-chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, added: “Uri is a true Sheffield trailblazer, who broke down barriers to inclusion in sport. 

“He is a man of great integrity with a reputation for boldness and fairness and a fierce commitment to equity and inclusion for all. 

“Throughout his life he has advocated for resilient communities and being a passionate ambassador for Sheffield.

“His reputation and impact are widely recognised, and his contribution to the university, our city and region will be a huge inspiration for all our students.

“His values and focus on social justice align completely with those of Sheffield Hallam and we are proud and privileged to welcome him formally as our new chancellor.”  

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