Memorial tributes for retired Vice-Chancellor, Sir Kenneth Calman
Sir Kenneth Calman, a distinguished Scottish academic and public servant, passed away on July 2025. Born on December 25, 1941, Calman made significant contributions to medicine, education, and public health throughout his illustrious career.
Calman began his academic journey at the University of Glasgow, where he studied medicine and later completed advanced research degrees in dermatology and organ preservation. He served as a surgeon, oncologist, and cancer researcher, and held various academic posts, including Professor of Clinical Oncology and Dean of Postgraduate Medicine.
In public health, Calman served as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Scotland from 1989 and for England from 1991 to 1998, playing a leading role in national health policy. After leaving this role, he became Warden and Vice-Chancellor of Durham University from 1998 to 2007.
Under Calman's leadership, Durham University developed a long-term strategy, rose into the top ten British universities, and founded key research institutes such as the Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Durham Energy Institute, and the Institute for Advanced Study. He also oversaw the establishment of two new colleges—Ustinov and Josephine Butler—and facilitated infrastructural growth. Notably, he arranged for the acclaimed author Bill Bryson to become Chancellor of Durham in 2005.
Beyond academia, Calman chaired the World Health Organization Executive Committee and led the Calman Commission on Scottish devolution from 2008 to 2009. He also chaired the National Cancer Research Institute from 2008 to 2011. He was actively involved with the National Trust for Scotland, contributing to its governance and strategic development until his recent death.
Sir Kenneth's motto was "Through learning I help others," reflecting his lifelong commitment to education and service. His legacy includes significant contributions to healthcare policy, higher education, and Scotland’s cultural heritage.
For further information, contact Lucian Hudson, Executive Director, Communications & External Relations at [email protected]. The University of Glasgow has recognised Calman's contributions with a dedicated news article: "University of Glasgow - University news - Sir Kenneth Calman." BBC News also reported on his passing: "Academic and devolution reformer Sir Kenneth Calman dies aged 83 - BBC News." Anne Galbraith, former Chair of University Council, remembered Sir Kenneth as someone who was "always such good company, with an impish smile." Professor Ray Hudson, former Acting Vice-Chancellor (2014-2015) and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, highlighted Sir Kenneth's role in establishing the Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, the Durham Energy Institute, and the pan-university Institute for Advanced Study.
- Despite his accomplished career in medicine and public health, Sir Kenneth Calman also made notable strides in education and self-development, serving as Warden and Vice-Chancellor of Durham University and overseeing its growth and strategic initiatives.
- Beyond his contributions to the healthcare sector and higher education, Calman worked in politics, chairing the Calman Commission on Scottish devolution and leading the National Cancer Research Institute, as well as contributing to the National Trust for Scotland's governance and strategic development.
