Dame Elan Closs Stephens becomes President of the Learned Society of Wales

Professor Dame Elan Closs Stephens has become the first woman President of the Learned Society of Wales.

She took up the position at the Society’s Annual General Meeting on 20 May.

Dame Elan was born in Gwynedd and is one of Wales’ most distinguished public servants, with vast experience within the media, politics and higher education. Among her many roles, she is currently the Electoral Commissioner for Wales, was interim Chair of the BBC between 2023 – 2024 and is Emerita Professor of Communications and Creative Industries at Aberystwyth University, where she is also Pro-Chancellor.

Dame Elan, on assuming the role of President, said of the Society and its unique strengths:

“We have a new Government that promises a new start. I would like that Government, and indeed business and industry and public bodies, to be aware of the riches at their disposal and to use our Fellowship as a resource to enhance the life of Wales.

“All of our activity serves one purpose. To make Wales, in its scientific, its social and cultural life, more vibrant, more sustainable, more vigorous, and more ambitious. And by doing that we also celebrate the intellectual strength of our nation.”

Olivia Harrison, Chief Executive of the Learned Society of Wales, said: “We are excited that we will be working so closely with Dame Elan in the future.

“The past six years, with Hywel Thomas at the helm, have seen huge growth at the Society, with much innovation and progress.

“The opportunity to build on that, with the unique perspectives, skills and connections that Dame Elan brings, means we are confident the Society will continue to play an active role in Welsh civic and academic life.”

The Society is Wales’ National Academy. It is made up of 700 Fellows, academics, researchers and leaders from Wales’ civic and cultural life. It promotes and develops Wales’ research community and contributes to debates about the policies that affect Wales.

Responding to the announcement, Professor Hywel Thomas, who has been President since 2020, said:

“I have loved my time as President of the Learned Society and know what a fascinating experience lies ahead for Dame Elan.

“Wales, the world and the research and innovation environment all face challenges. The Society could therefore not have hoped for someone with more experience and wisdom to help guide it through the coming years.

“I wish her all the best.”