New Master Sonita Alleyne OBE welcomed to College

Sonita Alleyne OBE has joined Jesus College as Master, four months after news of her election generated headlines around the world.

Sonita attended her first Matriculation ceremony on Saturday 5 October, and was admitted to the College alongside other new Society members on Monday 7 October. She spoke to BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour this morning, Tuesday 8 October.

In the Master’s welcome she said: “It is an absolute delight to be the Master of Jesus College. Whether you are here to study, work, teach, research or to visit one of our many conferences, I am sure you will realise that it is a fantastic place to be. Not just because of the historic buildings but because this beautiful College is cemented together by an incredibly warm, lively, inclusive community.”

The 41st Master and first woman to lead Jesus College since its foundation in 1496, Sonita succeeds Professor Ian White FREng, who was appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath earlier this year.

Professor James Clackson, who served as Vice-Master while the Master role was vacant, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sonita back to Cambridge. She brings a rare combination of skills to the College: business acumen, creative intelligence and a warm compassion for students, staff and alumni. We look forward to her leading us on a favourable course (to adapt the College’s motto) in the coming months and years.”