Full Breakdown
Dr Arthur Bernhoff Elected 56th Rector of the University of St Andrews
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Dr Arthur Bernhoff, a St Andrews alumnus and current Ministry of Defence analyst who also serves as a Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Deployable Civilian Expert, was elected the university’s 56th Rector. The election, conducted in four rounds of preferential voting, concluded with Bernhoff receiving 3,135 votes in the final round. He will assume office on 1 November 2026 and will serve a three-year term.
Background & Context
The Rector’s role is one of the university’s most historic positions, acting as President of the University Court and representing student interests at the highest level of governance. The previous rector, Stella Maris, was removed from the governing body after publicly accusing Israel of genocide and apartheid, a controversy that heightened scrutiny of the rectorial election. The 2026 contest attracted unprecedented student engagement, with turnout just under 45%—almost double that of the 2023 election.
Data & Statistics
- Total votes cast: 5,425
- Turnout: just under 45% of the eligible student body
- Vote distribution in the fourth round:
- Arthur Bernhoff – 3,135 votes (lead in all four rounds)
- Brian Baumgartner (actor) – 1,553 votes (second place)
- Q Manivannan – 1,243 votes (third place, eliminated in the third round)
- Mark Brunner – 874 votes (fourth)
- Edison Yau – 382 votes (fifth)
- Conor Philp – 140 votes (sixth)
- Reopen Nominations – 200 votes
Official Statements & Responses
Dr Bernhoff expressed gratitude for the level of support and described the election as an opportunity to reconnect with the university that shaped his formative years. He pledged to be a “present, listening, and effective” rector, emphasizing a commitment to represent the diverse student body without bias. Returning Officer Mike Gettinby thanked all candidates for running positive and engaged campaigns, noting that the high turnout demonstrated strong student interest in the rectorial process.
Criticism & Opposition (Election Context)
The election featured notable controversy surrounding candidate Q Manivannan, a Scottish Greens MSP. Manivannan faced criticism from the Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance and public figures after remarks describing rape as a “spectrum” were deemed to minimise sexual violence. He issued a partial apology, claiming his comments had been selectively edited. Although his campaign attracted media attention, the criticism did not translate into electoral success, and he finished third.
What’s Next
Bernhoff’s formal installation is scheduled for 2027, featuring the traditional Rector’s Drag—a procession that includes a novel form of transport, visits to student groups across town, and a reception at the Students’ Association, sometimes followed by a torchlight procession from St Salvator’s Quad to the pier.