Blue plaque honours Mo Mowlam
University plaque marks graduate and late leading politician’s achievements. Tony Henderson reports
One of the most influential figures in modern British politics has been honoured with a blue plaque at the North East university where she studied.
The plaque to Dr Marjorie “Mo” Mowlam at her former college celebrates her time at Durham University and her contribution to peace and public service.
Mo Mowlam studied anthropology and sociology at Trevelyan College from October 1968 to 1971.
She joined the Labour Party in her first year, became secretary of the Durham Union Society in 1969, and later served as vice president of Durham Students’ Union.
After graduating, she worked as a research assistant to Tony Benn and for writer Alvin Toffler.
The blue plaque has been installed following a nomination from the Women’s Banner Group, in collaboration with the City of Durham Parish Council and the university.
Professor Karen O’Brien, vice-chancellor and warden of Durham University, said: “It is with great pride that we unveil this blue plaque in honour of our esteemed alumna, Mo Mowlam, whose lifelong commitment to public service remains an everlasting source of inspiration to our university and beyond.
“Mo exemplified the very best of what higher education seeks to nurture: intellectual curiosity, integrity and a profound dedication to making a difference in the world.
“This plaque serves not only as a tribute to Mo and her achievements, but also as inspiration to current and future generations of the impact one individual can have through a life of public service, compassion and purpose.
“It is especially fitting that it should be installed at the college where Mo studied as a student and discovered her passion for politics.”
In 1973, Mo moved to the United States to complete a PhD in political science at the University of Iowa before embarking on a distinguished political career which saw her serve as Labour MP for Redcar from 1987 and later as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. In 1999, Durham University awarded her an honorary Doctor of Civil Law in recognition of her achievements.
Members of her family, friends and former colleagues gathered at the college to mark the unveiling of the plaque this week.
They included Sir Adam Ingram, Hilary Armstrong, Mo’s sister Jean Jacques, and representatives from the university, Women’s Banner Group and the parish council.
Jean Jacques said: “It is a tremendous honour to celebrate Mo’s life and legacy, alongside her former colleague Sir Adam Ingram, who worked so closely and effectively with her during her time as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
“I am incredibly proud of all that my sister achieved and of the lasting impact she continues to have on so many people.
“Our family is deeply grateful to the Durham Women’s Banner Group for nominating Mo for this recognition, and to the City of Durham Parish Council and Durham University for working together to honour her legacy in such a meaningful way.
“This plaque is a fitting tribute to someone who dedicated her life to public service and to bringing people together. Durham held a very special place in Mo’s heart.
“She loved every moment of her time here as a student, forming friendships, developing her passion for politics, and making memories that stayed with her throughout her life.
“It is wonderful to see her connection to Durham recognised in this way, and I know she would have been both humbled and delighted by this honour.”