Pat dedicated more than 31 years of her life to Wilberforce, having first joined the College’s Corporation in June 1995. In 1998, she became Chair – a position she held with great distinction for 28 years.

Throughout her remarkable service to the College, Pat was a passionate and steadfast advocate for Wilberforce, its students and the wider community we serve. Her commitment to education, opportunity and the future of young people was evident in everything she did.

Pat brought a wealth of professional expertise to her role. A Chartered Accountant, she had previously worked as Financial Director for J Townend & Sons (Hull) Ltd and as Corporate Finance Manager for Spicer and Oppenheim, before becoming a Senior Lecturer in Accounting and Finance at the University of Hull. She held a BA in Modern Languages and an MSc in Psychology, reflecting the breadth of her interests and expertise.

As Chair of the Corporation, Pat provided strong and thoughtful leadership, helping to guide the College through almost three decades of change and development. She was deeply committed to ensuring that Wilberforce continued to raise aspirations and provide the very best opportunities for its students.

Pat was immensely proud of Wilberforce and of the role the College plays in the lives of young people across Hull and the wider community. In her own words:

“The Corporation’s Governors work hard to fulfil Wilberforce College’s mission to raise aspirations and serve the educational needs of our community. We provide the strategic direction for the College, and we consider all aspects of our students’ education – from their achievement to their well-being.”

Her commitment to education continued throughout her retirement from the University of Hull and beyond. In 2025, Pat was invited to the King’s Education and Skills Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, attending alongside Principal Colin Peaks and fellow long-serving Governor Diana Hoskins in recognition of their contribution to education and skills.

Pat leaves an extraordinary legacy at Wilberforce. More than three decades of dedicated service, including 28 years as Chair, have made an enduring contribution to the College and to the generations of students who have passed through its doors.

Principal Colin Peaks, the Corporation, staff and students of Wilberforce Sixth Form College extend their deepest condolences to Pat’s family, friends and colleagues.

She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by the entire Wilberforce community.