The Rt Revd Dr Rosemarie Mallett, Bishop of Croydon, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by London South Bank University (LSBU) in recognition of her leadership and service to the community. The honorary fellowship represents one of the most esteemed honours within Higher Education, acknowledging individuals for exceptional achievements in their field or profession.
According to LSBU, Bishop Rosemarie’s influence extends beyond her role within the Church of England; she is noted for her advocacy on issues such as poverty and social inequality, and for promoting solidarity with vulnerable populations. Her academic background, combined with significant pastoral experience, allows her to effectively integrate scholarship, faith, and social engagement to empower communities and advance justice.
The Rt Revd Dr Rosemarie Mallett is the Bishop of Croydon in the Diocese of Southwark, appointed by the Crown in May 2022. Born in Barbados, she grew up in the UK and later pursued a distinguished academic career as a social anthropologist. She specialised in international development, family and migration studies, and the Caribbean, lecturing and publishing widely before offering herself for ordination in 2004.
Her clerical ministry began in the Diocese of Southwark, where she served in parish leadership before being appointed Canon Missioner at Southwark Cathedral. She was later named Archdeacon of Croydon, combining pastoral oversight with her commitment to social transformation. In these roles, she became a prominent advocate for racial justice, helping to lead the development of Southwark’s Anti-Racism Charter and representing the Church nationally on inclusion and equity.
Dr Mallett’s leadership extends beyond the Church of England. She is known for speaking out on poverty and social inequality, including calls for solidarity with the most vulnerable. Her background as an academic, coupled with her deep pastoral sensitivity, enables her to bridge scholarship, faith, and social action to empower communities and promote justice.
As Bishop of Croydon, Dr Mallett continues to embody the Church’s mission of reconciliation, diversity, and hope. She is recognised as a trailblazer within the Anglican Communion, particularly as one of the relatively few Black women bishops in the Church of England. Through her ministry, she has become a powerful voice for equality, compassion, and faithful service in both church and society.
Bishop Rosemarie expressed gratitude upon receiving the award, stating: “I am honoured and humbled to accept this Honorary Fellowship from London South Bank University, recognising my commitment to community service and leadership. I am grateful to have been nominated for this distinguished honour by a university dedicated to supporting individuals from all circumstances and backgrounds in striving for success. I extend my thanks to LSBU for this remarkable recognition.”
