I am writing on behalf of all of us at the University of Nottingham, and our extended family of alumni, to express our deepest sympathies.
President Professor Yang Fujia will remain fondly and proudly in our memories as a leader of immense vision and drive. So much of the University we know today would not be here without his influence as our sixth Chancellor.
As the news has filtered through our campuses many of his former colleagues around the world have expressed their sadness and shared memories of the many firsts he achieved, from his pioneering academic work to his vision for an education system that crossed global boundaries.
He was a true champion of educational reform in China but in pursuing this vision he helped to lay the foundations for change in the UK, starting with the University of Nottingham and leaving a legacy of opportunity for so many students around the world. His achievements and his name will resonate long into our futures both here and in Ningbo.
Professor Shearer West CBE
Executive Chair of UNNC Board
President and Vice-Chancellor