Colleagues and friends attended a celebration of the career of Del Davies last Friday in the Claverton Rooms.
The event was well attended and many people took the opportunity to express their best wishes to Del, including a very personal send off from her ex-colleague Professor Burrows.
Del has been Student Accommodation Manager at the University for 20 years and has managed many developments within student accommodation in that time, but it is her devotion to ensuring that students are happy and supported that makes her so well-loved on campus.
She said: “I’ve always been guided by the belief that it is really important for students to be happy where they live, and with whom they are living, because otherwise they won’t be in the right frame of mind to achieve academic success.”
The significance of the care and support she has given to students was formally recognised at the winter Award Ceremony on 12 December, where she received an honorary degree of Master of Arts.
Del said: “Being given an honorary degree was the last thing I ever expected! I’m not known for being speechless, but when I received the Vice-Chancellors’ letter about the award it had that effect!”
Jane Loveys, Head of Accommodation & Hospitality Services, who nominated Del for the award said: “Del has an ability to make each and every student feel valued and has a unique personal touch. She is totally committed to ensuring that all students get the best possible start and experience at Bath. She will be much missed by all those who know her.”
We wish Del all the best for the future.
A book of special memories, thoughts and good wishes was circulated on Friday. If anyone who was unable to attend would like to share a few thoughts and good wishes then it is available in the West Accommodation Centre.