New Chaplain for University

The Reverend Andrew Howard has joined the University of Teesside as its new Chaplain. In his new role Andrew is available to give advice and counselling to staff and students. Before following his religious vocation, Andrew worked in the hotel industry for 15 years.

Andrew, 42, lives in Middlesbrough and is originally from Derby. After leaving school, Andrew achieved qualifications in Hotel and Catering. He later went to work at the 300-room Hilton Hotel in Manchester Airport, progressing to Reception Manager.

Andrew said: "I enjoyed meeting all sorts of people in hotel work. It was very, very busy and stressful, but also enjoyable. I’d always gone to Church, and my sense of vocation grew steadily."

While working in the hotel, Andrew studied part-time for a theology degree. He was then selected for ordination as a Priest, so resigned from his job and enrolled at Mirfield Theological College in West Yorkshire. After achieving a Masters degree in Theology and Religious Studies, Andrew was ordained as a Deacon in 1997 and as a Priest a year later.

Andrew’s first post as a Curate in Worksop Priory, Nottinghamshire, was followed by St. Timothy's in Hemlington, Middlesbrough, where he worked as Parish Priest. Andrew said: "The Parish was challenging but very rewarding. The people are very genuine and down to earth. I applied to the University to experience a different form of ministry in a new environment.

"I'm available to talk to staff and students from different faiths or no particular faiths. I'm here to help in whichever way I can, just listening or complementing the counselling service offered by the University. I'm looking forward to getting to know the staff and students more and having a presence in the University."

Andrew is Associate Priest at two Middlesbrough Churches, St. John's and St. Columbus. Away from work, Andrew enjoys reading, music, walking and playing badminton. To contact Andrew e-mail chaplaincy@tees.ac.uk or call 01642 342708.

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