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Convocation Representatives on Court

Each year the Annual General Meeting of Convocation elects 25 members of Convocation to sit on Court. The University Court, whose constitution is defined by Statute, provides advice and views to Council on any matter relating to the University, and is the body that comprises all the stakeholders of the University.

Court usually meets once a year to consider the annual accounts, and the strategy and management of the University. It has the right to comment on the affairs of the University, advise Council on any matter, and invite Council to review a decision. The Chancellor presides at meetings of Court. Court also elects 15 members of Council, the Governing Body of the University.

Court has about 550 members. They include members of Council and Senate; University staff, students and benefactors; representatives of local and national bodies; local MPs; head teachers; and about one hundred members of Convocation, Bristol’s alumni association. All Convocation members may stand for election as a Convocation Representative on Court. 

Being elected as one of the 100 Convocation Representatives on Court offers the opportunity to keep in touch with developments in the University and to take part in the governance of the University. There are sometimes opportunities for Court members to express views on matters of current interest between Court meetings.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Convocation Representative on Court:

• To attend the annual meeting of Court in Bristol (usually held on a Friday in early December).
• Willingness to attend the Convocation AGM held during the Alumni Weekend in July.
• To encourage discussion amongst alumni of matters relevant to the University
• To represent the views of the alumni community to the University alongside those of the other stakeholders of the University.
• To contribute ideas for the advancement of the University in its position as a world class educational institution.
• Willingness to consider further volunteering activity if so requested by the Convocation Committee or Campaigns and Alumni Relations team.

Desirable Skills and Experience for a Convocation Representative on Court:

• Computer literacy with access to email.
• Understanding of strategic goals in a global institution.
• Commitment to the future development of the University as a world class institution of educational excellence.

Registering your Candidacy  

Since distance and electronic voting were introduced in 2011 we have used an electronic system for candidates to register their interest. We have tried to make this process simple but also comprehensive in the information we need to confirm candidates’ eligibility. You will be asked to enter contact and qualifying criteria for yourself, your proposer, and your seconder. You will also be asked to provide a personal profile (maximum 150 words). 

Typical profiles describe achievements and interests while at University, subsequent career development, other relevant information such as particular experiences and voluntary work, and reasons for wishing to stand. Your profile will not be edited, except to exclude unsuitable content if necessary, or if you exceed the 150-word limit. Please write your profile in the first person. Sample profiles are available here.

Detail of how to register your candidacy for the next election can be found on our 'how to take part' webpage.

Voting 

If an election is required, members of Convocation are able to vote for up to 25 candidates in any of three ways:

1. online;
2. in person at the Convocation AGM in Bristol; or
3. by requesting a paper ballot sheet from the Clerk to Convocation.

More information on voting and deadlines can be found on our 'how to take part' webpage.