Principal - Professor N M Sempala-Ntege OBE MA
As Principal of John Snow College, Nathan is responsible for leadership, culture, values and the strategic direction of the college community.
He joined Durham University in 2023 after a 27-year career in the British Army. As an officer in the Royal Artillery, he served on training exercises and military operations in Europe, North America, the Middle East, Central Asia, the Far East, and Africa, as well as in various planning and policy roles. His most recent role was as Head of People Strategy for the Army, prior to which he served as Deputy Commanding General of the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
In Nathan’s secondary role as Associate Pro Vice Chancellor, Colleges and Student Experience, he supports the development and delivery of an outstanding student experience for all Durham students.
He is married to Catriona and they have four children.
Vice-Principal - Dr Ruth Wilson
Ruth oversees the overall management of the College and deputises for the Principal in his absence, as well as helping in strategic planning. She is directly responsible for matters relating to student enrichment, outreach, and College events, and is the College Officer's link to the JCR for societies and the performing arts.
Assistant Principal - Gwen Dalziel (Student Support)
Our Assistant Principal is primarily concerned with student support and well-being.
The AP offer appointments and drop in for students who have concerns about any aspect of college life.
Email: snow.studentsupport@durham.ac.uk
Assistant Student Support Officer - Rachel Fenwick (Part-time)
Rachel is our Assistant Student Support Officer. Rachel is part of the student support team, whom you can contact if you need any support during your time at the University.
Assistant Student Support Officer - Christopher Welsh (Part-time)
Chris is our Assistant Student Support Officer. Chris is part of the student support team, whom you can contact if you need any support during your time at the University.
JCR President- Nick Evans
Nick is our JCR President for 2025/6, and his job is to oversee and look after the undergraduate student body here at John Snow, which is also known as the Junior Common Room.
Your university experience is about so much more than just getting a degree. Being involved within our thriving college community is one way to ensure that you have the best possible experience of life at John Snow, whether that’s through sports, societies, outreach or welfare.
Nick is based in the JCR Office near reception.
Email: snow.jcr@durham.ac.uk
JCR Vice-President- Caitlin Smith
Caitlin is our Vice-President for 2025/2026. Her role is to primarily work with Nick and the rest of the JCR to ensure everything runs smoothly. She is also in charge of organising all of the formals and stash sales.
Chaplain - Andrew Tinkler
Andrew provides pastoral support for students, and can also give advice around matters related to faith and belief. Andrew also helps develop our community projects and supports student volunteering too. He is in college on Thursdays so please introduce yourself or reach out as needed.
Andrew is passionate about social justice and is trustee with two charities in the North East. He is also a keen musician, playing bass guitar with several bands in his native North Tyneside.
College Administration Co-ordinator - Anna Casson
As our College Administration Coordinator, Anna is responsible for key College administrative functions and provides oversight of the day-to-day running of the College Office.
Email: snow.college@durham.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)191 334 0046
Student Support Administrator - Rebecca Jacobs (Monday-Wednesday)
Rebecca provides support for the College allocation process for all incoming students. In addition, she is the initial administrative point of contact for the College. She assists with College Events and also supports Anna by providing general admin support for the college.
Residential Services Assistant Manager -Danielle Smith
Danielle oversees all things accommodation here at the college. She also manages the Hub and the team of porters who work at the Hub.
Email: snow.accommodation@durham.ac.uk
Accommodation Facilitator - Heather Wheatley (Tues, Weds, Thurs)
Heather is the Accommodation Facilitator for both John Snow and South Colleges. She is your first point of contact for all things accommodation related and here for you for advice on all aspects of living in College.
Food and Beverage Services Head - Phil Smith
Phil manages the College Bar (Igloo) and also Catering Services for John Snow College.
Reception Helpdesk Assistant - Stacey Winn
Stacey provides reception cover and is the first point of contact for students and visitors. She manages the post, deliveries and key cards to student accommodation.
Email: johnsnow.reception@durham.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)191 334 0888
John Snow Finance Team-
Email: j.s.snow-finance@durham.ac.uk
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