Northumbria academic leaves lasting legacy to support students

Members of our alumni community from the late 1980's and early 1990’s may recall Dr Robert McCrone Laird, a researcher and teacher of physical chemistry who published research in physical-organic chemistry.

Sadly Robert passed away in December 2019. However he enjoyed his time so much at 'the Poly', and later Northumbria University, that he made plans during his lifetime to make a gift in his will. This transformational gift will now enable talented students irrespective of background to study at Northumbria University and realise their full potential for years to come.

Northumbria is committed to widening access to higher education and providing life changing opportunities for students, and the McCrone Laird gift will leave a lasting legacy for a much loved academic who was often found enjoying the company of academic colleagues in the staff bar on campus on a Friday lunchtime.

Students like Habiba have benefited from this type of support, follow Habiba’s story here. To support our widening access and participation campaign or learn more about making a gift in your will, click here.