December 2002
News

Kathleen (Kate) Clay

The President's Secretary of the Students' Union from October 1971 to July 1982, Kate Clay, has died, aged 76.

At the time that Kate worked at the University, the Presidents, the Executive, and students relied on her for her administrative abilities, her friendship and her support.

She organised and oversaw visits from students from the Soviet Union and Herzen Pedagogical Institute and those who visited on an International Union of Student Co-operation. Kate also resurrected the Debating Society, which saw much success under John Rimmer's Presidency; the Pop Concert at Crumlin - when Elton John, then little known, appeared. The success of the University of Bradford's University Challenge Team is well-known.

Kate was responsible for its organisation and co-ordination with the BBC. As a result of the Teams' success, the Student' Union were able to obtain two David Hockney prints (the second of which was donated to them when they bought the first with their winnings).

Gwyneth Smith, nee Turnbull (former Secretary to the University Vice-Chancellors, 1974 - 1989), said: "I worked with Kate during my own time as secretary and PA to the Vice-Chancellors Edwards and West and she enriched many lives during her time at the Students' Union and the University. Students, staff, those who worked with Kate and became friends with her will remember her with respect and great affection."

3 December 2002

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