It is with deep sadness that the University learns of the death of The Rt Hon. Lord Elis-Thomas. His connection with Bangor University was profound and his contribution to both the institution and to Wales as a whole will be remembered with great respect.
Lord Elis-Thomas graduated from Bangor University in 1967 with a degree in Welsh, followed by a PhD in Welsh in 1987. He was also a lecturer in Drama before entering politics. In 2000, in recognition of his contribution to the University and Wales he was made an Honorary Fellow.
His service as Chancellor of the University from 2000 to 2017, and as Chair of the University’s Council, left a lasting legacy.
In addition to his academic contributions, Lord Elis-Thomas was an active politician who made a significant contribution to Wales. He played a prominent role as Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism as well as the Llywydd (Presiding Officer) of the Senedd. Before moving to the Senedd, he represented the Meirionnydd Nant Conwy constituency as an MP between 1974-1992. He led Plaid Cymru for a number of years (1984-91) and was a member of the House of Lords and Privy Council.
He played an active role in the cultural and community life in Wales holding a number of Chairmanships including that of the Welsh Language Board, and sitting on many boards, including the Arts Council of Wales and the British Film Institute. His insightful contribution to the University and his friendly and open personality will be sadly missed.
Mrs Marian Wyn Jones, Chair of Bangor University Council, said: “Lord Elis-Thomas was a passionate advocate and a profoundly influential figure in the history of Bangor University. We will always be grateful for the time he gave to Bangor University and for the way he represented the interests of Wales at every level. His kindness, wisdom, and sense of purpose were truly outstanding. I was privileged to have worked alongside Dafydd and hugely valued his unwavering support and friendship. He was an inspirational figure who will be sorely missed by his Alma Mater. On behalf of the University community, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to his family at this time.”
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Edmund Burke, said: “Lord Elis-Thomas was a remarkable leader whose vision and dedication shaped the course of this institution for many years. Serving as both Chancellor and Chair of our governing body, he was a true friend of the University. We will forever be grateful for the time he devoted to our University and for the way he championed the interests of Wales at every level. His unwavering commitment to the University will always be remembered, and his enduring contributions will continue to inspire us."
Professor Andrew Edwards, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “Lord Elis-Thomas made an immense contribution to the Welsh political landscape and will be remembered for the substantial part he played in securing devolution for Wales. He will be fondly remembered as an often colourful and sometimes controversial politician who championed the Welsh cause at Westminster for nearly half a century, and was well respected across the political spectrum. A proud Welshman, European and internationalist, his loss will be felt within our University, in Wales and far beyond.”
