Dr Fiona Hill receives the City Lit Fellowship award

We had the honour of hosting our most recent Fellowship Award Event, celebrating Dr. Fiona Hill on Monday, November 6, 2023. We were thrilled to welcome such an outstanding individual who has left an undeniable mark on the world of foreign affairs and education. The event coincided with Lifelong Learning Week, taking place from Monday 6 November – Friday 10 November 2023. The week is celebration of learning and growth that takes place annually across England. 

Dr. Fiona Hill, a British-American foreign affairs specialist and accomplished author, has played a pivotal role in advising multiple U.S. administrations, including Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. Her journey from the working-class daughter of a coal miner to becoming the Chancellor of the University of Durham serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of education.

Dr. Fiona Hill's career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up in the Northeast of England, her pursuit of education took her from the United Kingdom to Soviet Russia and eventually to Harvard and the White House in the United States.

She has stood at the forefront of diplomatic endeavours, sharing her wisdom and counsel to help address complex global challenges. 

In addition to her contributions to diplomacy, Dr. Hill is also an accomplished author. Her work has helped shed light on the intricate dynamics of global affairs and issues which continue to affect society, making her an influential voice in the field.

What truly sets Dr. Fiona Hill apart is her unwavering commitment to accessible education. She understands that education is the cornerstone of personal and societal growth and can be the key to changing an individual’s circumstances. Her own journey exemplifies the profound impact education can have. 

But her dedication to education doesn't stop with her own career. In her role as the Chancellor of the University of Durham, she actively promotes education as a means of empowering individuals and creating opportunities for a brighter future. Dr. Hill believes that education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's about transforming lives and communities. 

During the event, Dr. Hill shared her thoughts on being honoured with the City Lit Fellowship. She remarked, "It’s wonderful to be here [at City Lit].”

“I’m really thrilled that you’ve framed the Fellowship event around these important issues of workers’ education and lifelong learning.”

She also stressed the importance of making accessible education going forward, “Education is a superpower and it’s something that countries should be investing in. It is a right and a benefit to larger society.”

Dr. Fiona Hill's presence at this event during Lifelong Learning Week was a powerful reminder of the role education plays in shaping individuals and communities for a brighter future.