The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that Rev Dr Anthea Colledge has been appointed as the new Chaplain to the University of the West of England and will commence her post from 1 December.
Anthea says: "I come originally from suburban London but have spent the last 15 years based in the North East and Yorkshire; training at Cranmer Hall in Durham followed by curacy in West Leeds and then 9 years of Chaplaincy ministry at Universities in Sheffield and Leeds. Before ordination I worked in mental health and learning disability projects in London. Alongside working as a chaplain I also finished a PhD in practical theology of mental health at the University of Leeds in 2021 - so I have experienced university life from different angles and understand some of the pressures (and joys) of postgraduate student life from the inside.
"I’m delighted to now have the opportunity to join UWE, contributing to a community where students and staff of all faiths and worldviews are supported to thrive and flourish. I’m passionate about the value of contemporary higher education chaplaincy and always happy to share this with people from other parts of the University, the Diocese or church – please do get in touch. I’m also interested in theologies of disability and mental health, faith-related equity and inclusion, and cosy murder mysteries, but I’m up for trying practically any topic of conversation once!
"I am currently Lead Chaplain to the University of Leeds and my civil partner Sarah is a parish priest. We share our lives with our rescue dog and two cats! We’re looking forward to getting to know the Diocese and area, and exploring everything the South West has to offer."
The Dean of Bristol, the Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford says “On behalf of the Cathedral and the Diocese, I’m delighted to be welcoming Anthea as our new Chaplain to the University of the West of England. She brings a wealth of experience and gifts to this role and we look forward to working alongside her to support the University, staff and students.”