Bishopsgate Institute is delighted to announce the appointment of Sarah Aitchison, Simon Demissie, Nancy Kelley and Ben McKnight to the charity’s Board.

The new trustees bring a wealth of experience in governance, special collections and communications in the arts, heritage and charity sectors:

• Sarah Aitchison has 30 years' experience in higher education archives. She is Director of Special Collections at University College London, co-chair of the Archives for Education and Learning Group, and a member of the UK Archive Service Accreditation Committee.
• Simon Demissie is Head of Library Experience & Engagement at Wellcome Collection. He has 14 years' experience working with archives and special collections, including at the National Archives, with a focus on making these spaces inclusive and accessible for communities.
• Nancy Kelley is a human rights and social justice campaigner, working to affect change in LGBTQIA rights, refugee protection, poverty and inequality. She is currently a Director at Lesbian Visibility Week and served as CEO of Stonewall from 2020-2023.
• Ben McKnight is a strategic communications leader and freelance consultant specialising in arts, culture, events and placemaking. He has held senior roles at the Greater London Authority, Hull UK City of Culture, and Manchester International Festival.

Nigel Pantling, Chair of Bishopsgate Institute’s Board of Trustees said, "I am thrilled to welcome these four exceptional individuals to the Board. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as they support the Institute’s staff to deliver our ambitions to inspire learning, curiosity and creativity through our world-class archives, which celebrate the stories of everyday people striving for social change.”

The Institute is also currently seeking a new Chair to lead the Board when Nigel Pantling’s term ends later this year. The deadline for applications is 14 April 2024.

To find out more about the role, including information on how to submit your application, please use the button below.