From Atlantic rower to University Chancellor: Plymouth-born adventurer returns to inspire the next generation

Released: 15.09.26

Few people embody the spirit of possibility and adventure quite like Debra Searle MVO MBE, entrepreneur, adventurer, and motivational speaker. The Plymouth-born trailblazer who rowed solo across the Atlantic will help chart the next chapter in Marjon's story when she succeeds former Chancellor Rt Rev. Nick McKinnel this autumn.

An adventurer whose achievements have taken her from the Atlantic Ocean to royal recognition, Debra brings an inspiring blend of resilience, enterprise, and optimism, to the role of Chancellor.

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Claire Taylor says: "Debra has spent her life showing what is possible when determination, optimism and courage meet opportunity.

“At a time when Marjon is growing in confidence and ambition, we wanted a Chancellor whose story reflects the transformative journeys our students undertake every day. Debra brings energy, inspiration, and a belief that extraordinary achievements can come from unexpected beginnings."

Debra Searle says: “I am delighted to be joining the Marjon community and helping inspire the next generation to realise what they are capable of achieving.  I meet so many young people who've already decided what they're not capable of, before they've even tried. If I can play even a small part in helping them test that belief, the way I’ve had to test mine, on expeditions, in boardrooms, and on big stages around the world, then I'll have done my job.”

Born in Plymouth and raised in Devon, Debra's connection to the region runs deep. Her love of the outdoors and adventure was shaped on Dartmoor, and today she continues to serve the local community as a RNLI Lifeboat crew member in Plymouth.  She is a regular on campus, having used the theatre, sports, and physiotherapy facilities for almost 20 years and describes this role as, “feeling less like joining a new institution and more like coming home.”

Training as an educator, Searle went on to spend a decade as a Trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, working alongside HRH Prince Philip and HRH Prince Edward to help thousands of young people build resilience.

Her expeditions have taken her around Antarctica, up to the Arctic Circle, and everywhere in between.  She has also launched five companies, is a published author, has presented over 40 programmes for the BBC, and is a trusted corporate speaker. Now, the movie of Debra’s story of rowing solo across the Atlantic after her ex-husband was rescued is in development in Hollywood.

Across every stage of her career, Debra Searle has embodied many of the values that define Marjon today: ambition without barriers, opportunity for all, and the confidence to embrace new possibilities while staying true to its roots. 

Already an Honorary Graduate of the University, Debra's appointment as Chancellor marks the next chapter in her long-standing connection with Marjon. Debra will be formally installed as Chancellor during Marjon's Graduation ceremonies in October.