A major room at the University of Worcester has been dedicated for Brenda Sheridan, a long-serving member of staff and highly respected community leader, councillor and former Mayor of Worcester.
Brenda was an exceptional lecturer and highly valued member of staff at the University of Worcester from 1962 to 1987, ultimately serving as the Head of Infant Education.
Renowned for her dedication and warmth, she influenced generations of trainee teachers and made a profound contribution to the life of the institution.
She passed away in autumn 2024. To celebrate her life and enduring impact, the University recently held a commemorative event in the newly dedicated room, unveiling a plaque and bringing together colleagues, alumni, and friends to share memories of her remarkable career.
The room chosen to bear her name is one of the most handsome seminar rooms at the University, in which the University’s Academic Board regularly meets
During her 25 years of service, Brenda touched the lives of countless students and remained closely connected to the University community long after her retirement.
Her distinguished commitment to public life also extended well beyond the campus; she served the wider Worcester community with distinction in roles including councillor, Mayor of Worcester, and several other positions of civic responsibility including chair of Governors at Oldbury Park Primary school which immediately adjoins the University of Worcester’s
Brenda further demonstrated her lifelong commitment to education by leaving a generous legacy gift to the University of almost £250,000 to be used to promote “Access to Learning” through relieving student hardship.
Professor David Green, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Worcester, said: “Brenda’s contributions to then College University and to the wider Worcester community were immense. She made a meaningful impact everywhere she went.”
He continued: “We are honoured to name this handsome, well‑used, central room on our campus for Brenda, as a lasting tribute to her dedication, kindness, and selflessness. As someone who truly believed in the power of education to change lives, it is clear why Brenda was so passionate about ensuring her estate would support students facing hardship.”
Professor Green added: “The hardship fund is a vital resource for our students, many of whom will become the doctors, midwives, nurses, paramedics, and teachers of the future. Brenda’s generous gift will undoubtedly help ensure that these future professionals can pursue their ambitions and not be knocked off course by some challenging event in their life, bringing with it significant financial costs.”
Margaret Jones, a close personal friend of Brenda, said: “Brenda would have been both delighted, and embarrassed, in equal measure to be honoured in this way!”
She added: “This is because Brenda never sought the limelight, but worked tirelessly for the community.”
At the event, a plaque was unveiled by Worcester’s Mayor, Dr Matt Lamb, one of several former mayors to attend.
Dr Lamb said: “Brenda Sheridan’s life was defined by service, generosity, and a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives; values that will continue to inspire all who use this room in her memory.”
For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk