High Steward (academia)

The High Steward in the universities of Oxford and Cambridge (sometimes erroneously known as the ''Lord High Steward'') is a university official. Originally a deputy for the Chancellor, the office of High Steward had by the 18th century undergone the same evolution and become a position by which the universities honoured prominent external figures. The High Stewards still retain some functions relating to adjudication in disputes, appeals, and deputizing if there is a vacancy in the Chancellorship.University Statutes, Statute D, Chapter V
University of Cambridge, UK. In Oxford, the office of High Steward is now more similar to the office of Commissary in Cambridge.

In Cambridge, the High Steward is elected by the members of the University Senate voting in person, one of that body's few remaining functions, and holds office until he or she voluntarily resigns or until the Senate otherwise determines. The Deputy High Steward is appointed by the High Steward by letters patent. The High Steward and the Deputy High Steward perform "such duties as have heretofore been customary and any duties prescribed by Statute or Ordinance". When the office of High Steward is vacant the duties of that office are performed by the Deputy High Steward.

In Oxford, the High Steward is appointed by the Chancellor of the university.Statute IX: Officers of the University
, University of Oxford, UK

Several commoner High Stewards were subsequently appointed Lord Chancellor, Lord Great Chamberlain or Prime Minister, such as Thomas More, Thomas Cromwell, Christopher Hatton, William Pitt the Younger, Philip Yorke, John Copley

High Stewards of the University of Cambridge

** Elected Chancellor of Cambridge University

High Stewards of the University of Oxford

References

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Lists of people associated with the University of Cambridge
Oxbridge
Terminology of the University of Cambridge
Terminology of the University of Oxford