Professor Frances Corner OBE, Head of London College of Fashion and UAL Pro Vice-Chancellor, has been appointed the next Warden of Goldsmiths, University of London, the first woman to hold the post.
Frances has made a defining contribution to University of the Arts London (UAL) since she joined as Head of London College of Fashion (LCF) 14 years ago. With clear sight, gravitas and hard work, she has transformed the fortunes of the college as a total fashion school. Her influence extends far beyond education into fashion innovation, sustainability and enterprise. Above all, she has helped people to understand that fashion means business and shapes lives. The college is now rightly recognised among the world’s leading fashion schools.
Commenting on the move she said:
“London College of Fashion is an extraordinary place, with a terrific energy and enthusiasm to drive change and make a real difference to people’s lives. I’m honoured to have been in a position to champion the brilliant things we’ve achieved together since I joined in 2005.
As the transformation continues for LCF and the move to a new single campus in East London is now in sight, whoever takes up the role will be extremely privileged to work with such a strong and talented group of individuals in realising another major milestone for the College’s staff, students and graduates.
I have enjoyed every moment of my time with LCF and as Pro Vice-Chancellor of University of the Arts London.
Named a London Leader for Sustainability in 2009 and a Green Gown finalist in 2015, Frances champions the use of fashion as an agent for innovation and change, particularly in the areas of sustainability, health and well-being. In June 2009 Frances was awarded an OBE for Services to the Fashion Industry. This appointment is fitting recognition of her achievements at UAL and completely in tune with her exceptionally successful career.
Read Frances’ reflections on the move and her time with UAL on her blog.
Photography by Michelle Marshall.