Hillary Clinton has been appointed as the new chancellor of the Queen'sUniversity Belfast.

The former US presidential candidate, who received an honorary doctorate from Queen’s in October 2018, will become the University’s 11th and first female Chancellor.

It is a great privilege to become the Chancellor of Queen’s University, a place I have great fondness for and have grown a strong relationship with over the years. Hillary Clinton

Accepting the position, Mrs Clinton, said: “The University is making waves internationally for its research and impact and I am proud to be an ambassador and help grow its reputation for excellence.”

Mrs Clinton will serve as the University’s new Chancellor, for a period of five years.

Hillary Rodham Clinton is an internationally recognised public servant with almost five decades in public service as an advocate, attorney, First Lady, Senator and Secretary of State.

She has developed strong links with Queen’s University and Northern Ireland.

As Secretary of State, she focused on economic development to underpin the emergence of a strong and competitive Northern Ireland and, during her time as First Lady, made a considerable contribution to the Northern Ireland Peace Process.

With her long-standing commitment to peace, stability and economic regeneration, she is a strong advocate for Northern Ireland and an inspirational role model for the Queen’s community.

The Chancellor fulfils three main roles – a ceremonial one which involves presiding at degree congregations; an ambassadorial role, where the office holder helps to “open doors” for the University as it seeks to fulfil its mission; and finally as an advisor, available to the Vice-Chancellor and senior management as a “sounding board” and to provide counsel and guidance.

Mr Stephen Prenter, Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Senate, the University’s governing body, said: “I am delighted that Queen’s has chosen Hillary Clinton to be its new Chancellor.

“Secretary Clinton has made a considerable contribution to Northern Ireland and as an internationally recognised leader will be an incredible advocate for Queen’s and an inspirational role model for the Queen's community.”