Named after Rhodri Morgan, the Morgan Academy is a newly-established research-based think tank founded to deal with the pressing ‘wicked issues’ of public policy in Wales and the wider world.

Introducing the commemorative seminar, Professor Davies expressed his delight that this first event was more than a stand-alone and affectionate appreciation of Rhodri’s life and work: “It is the first of many activities that will rigorously address key social, economic and scientific issues that exercised Rhodri’s considerable intellect. In that respect I am very pleased to announce that, through the good offices of the Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales, the Morgan Academy and the National Assembly have agreed to become partners in hosting an annual memorial Rhodri Morgan lecture. The first of these will be held in late September 2018 and the venue for the lecture will alternate between the Senedd and Swansea University”. 

The Llywydd of the National Assembly, Elin Jones AM, said: “Rhodri was a wonderful communicator with a unique gift for combining great intellect and an ability to connect with the diverse communities of Wales. During cabinet meetings, I remember how he skilfully steered policy discussions in such a way that decisions were always considered not only through the prism of how they would be perceived in the Senedd, but also by how they would be perceived in the village hall or at the supermarket checkout. It is a privilege for us to work in collaboration with the Morgan Academy on this ambitious venture which reflects Rhodri’s vast contribution to help build our nation and its young democracy.”

Rhodri Morgan’s wife, Julie Morgan AM, said: “I am really pleased that the National Assembly and Swansea University are working together to set up this on-going celebration of Rhodri’s contribution. It seems right that two institutions that meant so much to him should come together in this way”. 

Pictured (from left): Professor Mike Sullivan, Director of the Morgan Academy; Helen Mary Jones, Deputy Director of the Morgan Academy; Professor Richard B. Davies, Vice-Chancellor, Swansea University; Professor Prys Morgan, emeritus professor at Swansea University and brother of the late Rhodri Morgan; Sir Roderick Evans.