The University is saddened to learn of the passing of former member of staff in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dorothy Taylor, who has passed away aged 81.
Former Academic Secretary, Catherine Jones, has provided a tribute to Dorothy:
“I first got to know Dorothy Taylor in the 1990s when we worked together in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office (although she had worked for the University for some 20 years before that).
“When I knew her she was a key member of the Ceremonial Unit where, with Martin Eva, she helped to organise University events such as inaugural and special lectures, graduation dinners and the ceremonial aspects of degree ceremonies.
“While Dorothy’s administrative skills were excellent, it was in the ‘people’ side of the job that she really came into her own. At degree ceremonies, she was the one who greeted honorary graduands and their guests and University Officers and staff in the Green Room, putting them at the ease and helping them to robe.
“I am sure that anyone involved in the ‘VIP procession’ at degree ceremonies in those days will remember Dorothy – with her stash of safety pins and other useful objects – straightening gowns and fixing hoods in place for everyone from the Chancellor and honorary graduands down to the ushers.
“She was good at sewing and I remember her making a set of false sleeves for the Vice-Chancellor, so that he could wear his heavy, gold-encrusted gown – which was very warm in the summer – without a jacket underneath. This is just one example of how Dorothy was always thinking of ways to improve how things were done on these special occasions.
“She always exuded an air of calm competence in the Green Room and, with her friendly and pleasant manner, she helped to make these events enjoyable for everyone.
“Away from the big occasions, she was a quietly supportive colleague who worked hard and offered her advice and ideas gently and respectfully. Outside of work, I remember that she was devoted to her family and quietly proud of her two children.”
Dorothy’s funeral will take place on Tuesday, 5 March at 3.30pm at St Helens Crematorium. This will be followed by a celebration of Dorothy’s life at Mansion House, St Helens. Colleagues who remember Dorothy are welcome to attend.