Distinguished Speakers at the University of London: Dame Menna Rawlings

For the past 50 years the University of London Institute in Paris has provided a unique connection between the UK and France, offering students the best of both worlds – a UK degree from the heart of Paris. The Institute has a long history of supporting French and British academic collaboration that pre-dates the Entente Cordiale – the historic agreement that significantly improved Franco-British relations in 1904.

This year, marking the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale, the University of London is honoured to present the first female British Ambassador to France, Dame Menna Rawlings as part of our Distinguished Speaker series.

From her historic appointment to navigating the complexities of international relations, Dame Menna Rawlings will unveil the realities of life on the frontline of global diplomacy.

About the speaker:

Dame Menna was appointed Her Majesty’s Ambassador to the French Republic in August 2021. Having joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1989, Dame Menna has held a wide range of roles, including Director-General Economic and Global Issues at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and serving as (FCO) High Commissioner to Australia from April 2015 to February 2019.

Join us for a wide-ranging conversation with one of the foremost diplomats in Europe as Dame Menna shares her analysis of Franco-British relations, exploring the impact of upcoming elections on policy, trade and the crucial role of higher education and research.

Professor Wendy Thomson CBE, Vice-Chancellor of University of London, is hosting the discussion. Professor Thomson has a distinguished career in public service and social policy research in Canada and the United Kingdom. Her experience has combined senior roles in the academic and government sectors.

When: Wednesday 13th March, 6:30pm, with a drinks reception before the presentation

Where: The Chancellor’s Hall, Senate House, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HU

Event schedule:

18:00 - Doors open & drinks reception

18:30 - Presentation commences, including time for audience Q&A

19:30 – Event concludes

We look forward to welcoming you.