Dr Les Halpin 1957-2013 (Mathematical Statistics and Operational Research 1979, Hon LLD 2011)

Les was a wonderful ambassador for the University of Exeter. He was a former student who truly valued the opportunities a degree had given him, as he forged an extremely successful career as a statistician and entrepreneur. More importantly, he met his beloved wife Claire and many friends here.

When we got back in touch with him a few years ago we were bowled over by his sheer enthusiasm, energy and good humour.

Les and Claire, working with Professor Nick Talbot, set up the visionary Halpin Scholarship Programme for PhD scholars carrying out research into Rice Blast fungus. The programme supports scholars from those very parts of the world where this plant disease is so devastating. The Business School and a major expedition to the rainforests of Borneo have also benefitted from the Halpins’ generosity.

Les’s gifts to Exeter of his time, encouragement and support were priceless.   

The way he turned the devastating diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease into a force for good through his campaign Empower: Access to Medicine was frankly inspirational and a credit to this remarkable man, whom we were proud to call our friend.

Professor Sir Steve Smith, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive