By ADF Newsdesk –

“Welcome to history.” Those three words opened a very special event today (Thursday 11 December) at the Cedar Court Hotel in Huddersfield, setting the tone for a truly momentous morning that KLTV was honoured to attend.

We were present to witness the Institute for Equity, University Centre’s Pro-Chancellor Installation and Awards Ceremony.

The highlight was the inauguration of the school’s first Pro-Chancellor, the well-known Huddersfield businessman and Founder of Ashbrow Garage Ltd, Lindel Moralley ‘Johnny’ Flowers.

Johnny embodies the resilience, regional character, and service that this institute seeks to celebrate—from his arrival in Huddersfield in 1961 to his lifetime of work in community relations and education.

His appointment beautifully symbolises the connection between academic excellence and lived experience. 

Learn more about Johnny’s story from the man himself, in Windrush: Wise Words

A Unique Ethos

What impressed us most was the palpable people-first ethos of the university.

As the UK’s first specialist Higher Education Institution for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, they are afforded significant academic freedom, which enables them to do something truly unique.

Today was a stark reminder of the magic of education; it can do more than just transfer knowledge, it can change hearts and minds.

Dr Milton Brown, CEO of Kirklees Local TV, Johnny Flowers, Pro-Chancellor and Professor Paul Miller, CEO and Co-Founder of the Institute of Equity

Distinguished Guests

The event was attended by many distinguished dignitaries who understand this power, including:

• Sir John Harman, Chair of Huddersfield Unlimited and former leader of Kirklees Council.

• Fatima Khan-Shah, West Yorkshire Inclusivity Champion, whose impassioned presentation spoke truths about the challenges faced by minority communities.

• David Ridgway, former Mayor and ‘number one citizen’ of Kirklees, turned author.

• The Revd. Wayne Simmonds, Racial Justice Officer for the Diocese of Leeds, who brought a much-needed faith element to the proceedings.

• Professor Catherine Harper, PhD PFHEA, Deputy Vice Chancellor at The British University in Egypt, who summed up the event, describing it as “A moment in history.”

It was also wonderful to see support from across the UK academic sector, including Professor Damien Page (VC of Buckinghamshire New University) and Professor Charles Egbu (VC of Leeds Trinity University).

A Vision Realised

A special shout-out must go to Professor Paul Miller and Andrea Miller (CEO and Deputy CEO of the Institute) for their vision in establishing the Institute and bringing everyone together for this occasion.

Finally, congratulations to the 26 graduates from the Graduating Class of 2025 on receiving your EDI Fellowships and diplomas. You are the future leaders we need.