rector

In the Church of England, the incumbent of a parish where the rector historically received the great tithes, unlike a vicar, who received the lesser tithes and was supported by the rector or another appropriator. The distinction became largely financial and historical as the tithe system was reformed. In universities, a rector may be the head or senior officer of a university or college, with responsibilities varying between institutions. The title remains in use in both ecclesiastical and academic contexts.