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The Chancellor is the ceremonial figurehead of the University. Alongside the specific role of presiding at annual academic congregations to confer degrees, diplomas and other awards of the University, the Chancellor acts as ambassador for Northumbria, promoting the University on a regional, national and international level. 

In the course of her 16 year sporting career, Tanni, Baroness Grey-Thompson, won 16 medals in five Paralympic Games, including 11 gold, and was a six times winner of the London Wheelchair Marathon.  She has held 30 world records. 

Now retired from competitive sport, Tanni’s current roles include the chairmanship of UK Active and membership of the boards of the London Marathon, Transport for London and the London Legacy Development Corporation.  She still plays an active role in the administration of sport and holds prominent positions in various sporting bodies.  She has been a member of the National Disability Council and Senior Deputy Chair of the UK Lottery Award Panel.  In March 2010 Tanni was appointed to the House of Lords as a non-party political cross bench peer, becoming Baroness Grey-Thompson of Eaglescliffe in the County of Durham.