Dr Monika Nangia joined us back in May as our new Academic Registrar. Dialogue Magazine caught up with her to see how she’s settling in and to find out more about her.

So, what has it been like moving to Durham?

“I have always been a city person, having lived in bustling Delhi and London, and joining Durham has opened my eyes to the beautiful countryside,” she said. “The historic city of Durham is obviously stunning, but it is the countryside that I find most alluring. The area also has some of the most warm-hearted people that I have ever met.”

Monika Nangia, our new Academic Registrar

What has been your greatest achievement?

“Whilst at Queen Mary’s University, London I helped set up a summer school for young asylum seekers from Iraq and Afghanistan. A few years later, I was delighted to see that some of the students went on to study at university. It was really satisfying. I am drawn to work with impact and have constantly sought to set up new initiatives with a definite purpose and positive outcome.”

What will you bring to Durham?

I am deeply passionate about social justice, and I know that Durham University is a value-driven institution that has the potential to transform lives of young people from all backgrounds.

"I believe every young person should have the opportunity to achieve their potential, regardless of their background. I know that our Vice-Chancellor is really passionate about it too. I would like to believe that the time is right, and we can make a significant difference in offering equality of opportunities to all.

"The University has a strong international reputation and does well in attracting students globally and nationally. However, we need to do more to attract students from our local communities who may not have the confidence to apply. As Academic Registrar, I'd like to see Durham become an institution of choice for students from different socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicities and abilities, regardless of whether they are from the North East of England, across the country or the world."

Tell us more about your background

“I grew up and studied in Delhi, India, gaining a degree in English Language and Literature before studying for a Master’s in the subject. Whilst in India I briefly worked in the airline industry, where I developed a love of travel. I also worked as a schoolteacher, during which time I saw first-hand the power of education in aiding social mobility and I knew I wanted to do something in this field to make a real difference.

“I moved to England in 1999 to undertake a PhD in Political Science and Government at Goldsmiths, University of London. My research was based in the field of inclusive education. I now have more than 25 years’ experience in Higher Education (HE) and before joining Durham I was Director of Student and Academic Experience at SOAS University, London.

“I’m very passionate about student experience as well as social mobility and social justice.”

What is the best advice you have received?

It was from my father. He taught me to believe in destiny, but reminded me that it is not something that we have no control over, we are creators of our own destiny. Once you have belief in yourself, there is almost nothing that can stop you from achieving anything you want.

What do you like to do outside of work?

“I love to cook and travel. When I am not travelling, I cook to relax. I love exploring different cultures, landscapes and meeting new people. I find cooking and having a meal together with my loved ones really enjoyable and probably the best thing I do for my mental health.”

As Academic Registrar, Monika is responsible for leading and managing the Academic Office, which includes Curriculum, Learning and Assessment, Student Immigration and Funding and Student Registry.

Monika pursuing her love of travel

Monika’s favourite:

Book: The Argumentative Indian: Writings on Indian History, Culture and Identity by Amarta Sen. This really explains why Indians are the way we are.

Film: Gangubai Kathiawadi (Bollywood film)

Cake: Banana and walnut cake, one of my new bakes

To hear more from Monika, view this short video