Lord Kerslake, who died last year, was Chair of Sheffield Hallam University’s Board of Governors from 2016-2023 and was Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council for 11 years between 1997 and 2008.
The collection of over 40 essays has been launched today (Wednesday 10 July) by the UPP Foundation, whose Civic University Commission Lord Kerslake also chaired.
The collection features essayists from across the political spectrum and across different sectors – including education, business, healthcare, local government, think tanks, charities and the arts – who all advocate for universities to have a stronger voice in place-making.
Included in this is a contribution from Professor Liz Mossop, Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University, Kate Josephs, Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council and Rebecca Varley, Chief of Staff at Sheffield Hallam University. Their joint essay looks back on Lord Kerslake’s legacy in the city as a pioneer for just and sustainable regeneration with a focus on partnerships between public and private sector organisations and universities’ role in supporting the development of their places.
The collection touches on a number of issues of vital importance to towns, cities and regions, including local economic growth, raising educational attainment and opportunity for disadvantaged groups, the local supply of the NHS workforce, improving the local environment, and access to culture and the arts. Following the launch at the National Theatre, the full collection is available from kerslakecollection.org.
Several prominent public figures have also signed an open letter to the new Prime Minister calling for actions including support for the creative sector, investment in the NHS workforce and a review of how the post-16 educational sector can overcome the current funding crisis effecting it - all of which would continue Bob's legacy.
Among many other leadership roles, Lord Kerslake was Chair of the UPP Foundation Civic University Commission supporting over 70 universities in developing Civic University Agreements and the creation of the Civic University Network. The groundbreaking work championed by Lord Kerslake has transformed the relationship between universities and their local communities across the UK.
This stands as one among many other achievements across a lifetime of public service. As a former head of the civil service, a prominent figure in local government, housing and higher education and a regular media political commentator, Lord Kerslake and his vision for society touched thousands of lives. His impact is reflected in the breadth of the essays brought together in the collection, with reflections on everything from the future of English devolution to the role of universities in tackling homelessness.
Professor Liz Mossop, Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University: “It was an honour to be one of the contributors for this collection of essays in memory of the late Bob Kerslake. As Chair of our Board of Governors, working closely with Sir Chris Husbands as Vice-Chancellor, Bob had a hugely influential role within the university.
“His legacy lives on through many achievements across an impressive career in public service. His passion for Sheffield and appreciation for the opportunities that higher education can bring has made a lasting impression, which continues to be a source of inspiration.”
Richard Brabner, Director of the UPP Foundation, said: “It has been an honour to orchestrate this collection to celebrate the legacy of our late great friend Bob Kerslake. It was the privilege of my career to work closely with Bob, his passion, insight, and hard work were crucial to the success of our Civic University Commission, and I know that everyone involved in the collection has benefitted from Bob’s wisdom over the years. We hope that this collection provides the inspiration to the new Government to build on Bob’s work to ensure the civic role is truly recognised.”
