University of Southampton President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Christopher Snowden, has led tributes to Dame Helen Alexander, following the announcement of her death at the weekend. Dame Helen, who was 60, had been Chancellor of the University since 2011.
Sir Christopher Snowden said:
“It is with deep regret and sadness that I have let members of our University community know that our Chancellor, Dame Helen Alexander, passed away peacefully on Saturday night. She had been battling cancer for some time and succumbed to a final aggressive stage.
“Dame Helen was very popular across the University, especially at graduations, where her friendly and caring character was most evident,” he continued. “She was always keen to help the University and its members and would regularly ask me about news of our successes. We will all miss her enthusiasm and personal warmth, and our thoughts are with her family at this very sad time.”
Dame Helen Alexander
Dr Gill Rider, Chair of the University of Southampton Council said:
“Helen was a wonderful role model to a generation of men and women who followed her career and was always approachable, happily offering her support and mentoring. It was a delight and privilege to know her.”
As Chancellor of Southampton, Dame Helen played a leading ambassadorial role on behalf of the University, presiding over degree ceremonies at graduation. Her strengths and leadership across a range of business sectors led to her appointment as Chancellor in 2011. Well-known for her leadership and successful career in business, Dame Helen continued to fulfil her role as Chair of UBM plc until her death.
Dame Helen’s family have expressed their wish for friends and colleagues to donate to the Centre for Cancer Immunology in Dame Helen’s memory via JustGiving.
