LMH mourns the sudden death of post-graduate student
Students and Staff at Lady Margaret Hall are mourning the sudden and unexpected death of Elizabeth Vasey, a postgraduate Biology student. The 26-year-old collapsed whilst out with friends in Oxford on March 3. She was treated by a doctor at the scene before being taken to John Radcliffe Infirmary where she failed to regain consciousness.
LMH College Principal Dr Frances Lannon said, “We are all immensely sad at Elizabeth Vasey’s sudden death. She was a very committed student who was thoroughly enjoying her M.Sc. course in Biology and working with great dedication. She was passionate about conservation issues and the protection of the natural world.” Liz was friendly and outgoing. It is tragic that someone with so much vitality and commitment should die so young. Our profound sympathy goes out to her family and friends.
Joanna Bagniewska, a postgraduate student at St Anne’s and a friend of Elizabeth’s, said, “Throughout all of Michaelmas, our entire MSc course was almost inseparable. Liz’s death last term came to us as a real shock. “She was always very energetic, expressive, talkative and full of life - even when she was not feeling well. It seems that most of us still can’t get used to the idea of her not being around.” A memorial service was held in the college chapel on Sunday, March 4.
Vasey’s funeral on Thursday, March 15, was attended by many of her friends from Oxford and Sheffield. Her LMH tutor and LMH Principal Dr Frances Lannon were also in attendence. With the help of Elizabeth’s family and friends, the college has planned a special Evensong service in celebration of her life. The service is due to be held in the LMH College Chapel on Sunday, April 22. The service will be open to members of the public.
Elizabeth was in the process of studying for a Masters degree in biological science. She moved to Oxford after completing an undergraduate degree at Sheffield University.
19th Apr 2007