A
rector ("ruler", from the Latin
regere and
rector meaning "ruler" in Latin) is a term used in non-English-speaking countries for a university
chancellor. In the sphere of academia, it is the highest academic official of many
universities and in certain other institutions of higher education, as well as in some secondary-level schools. The term and office of a rector are called a
rectorate. The title is used widely in universities across
Europe. and is very common in
Latin American countries. It is also used in
Brunei,
Turkey,
Russia,
Pakistan, the
Philippines,
Indonesia,
Israel and the
Middle East. In some universities, the title is phrased in an even loftier manner, as
Lord Rector.