Uriah Rennie, the Premier League’s first Black referee, has been officially installed as the new Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University. The 65-year-old, known for officiating more than 300 football matches, is now set to take on a fresh leadership role in higher education.
This new chapter comes as Rennie continues his recovery from a rare condition that left him temporarily paralysed from the waist down. Despite personal challenges, he remains passionate about creating opportunities for young people from all backgrounds.
Sheffield Hallam University Welcomes a New Chancellor
Rennie’s appointment marks a proud moment for Sheffield Hallam University and its community. He will act as the university’s figurehead and ambassador, representing students at major events like graduation ceremonies.
Prof Liz Mossop, Vice-Chancellor of the university, shared her excitement about the appointment. “Uri is a true Sheffield trailblazer who continues to campaign on important community issues. He is a perfect fit for our university,” she said.
A Career Beyond the Football Pitch
Though many know Rennie for his achievements in football, his career stretches far beyond the sport. Born in Jamaica and raised in Sheffield’s Wybourn area, he began refereeing in local football leagues in 1979. By 1997, he was officiating in the Premier League, with 175 top-flight matches under his belt before retiring in 2008.
He has also served as a magistrate in Sheffield since 1996 and holds a master’s degree in business administration and law. In 2023, Sheffield Hallam awarded him an honorary doctorate for his outstanding contributions to sport and the community.
A Voice for Education, Equality and Opportunity
Rennie hopes to use his new role to inspire students, especially those who may not see university as an option. “A lot of students from backgrounds like mine don’t think university is for them. But we can open those doors and let them choose,” he explained.
His vision includes broadening access to resources, raising the city’s profile, and making sure students feel heard. Rennie added, “There will be bumps in the road, but by listening to students, we can deliver what they need.”
Sport, Learning, and Innovation Go Hand in Hand
Although football remains a passion, Rennie values education and innovation just as much. When asked whether he might launch a degree in football refereeing, he didn’t rule it out. “Nothing is off the table,” he said, stressing the importance of staying responsive to modern demands.
He believes universities should offer a balanced mix of academic and practical programs to attract a wider range of students. “If you provide a greater, more rounded package, you will bring more people to their specialist area,” Rennie stated.
A New Era for Sheffield Hallam and Its Students
With Rennie as Chancellor, Sheffield Hallam University looks forward to an era of fresh ideas and community engagement. His leadership, resilience, and advocacy for equality offer inspiration to students and staff alike.
As Rennie puts it, “We have a lot to offer, and with teamwork and innovation, we can achieve great things.”
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