MidKent College principal Sue McLeod has died, aged 53.
The mum-of-one, who who had joined the college as a travel and tourism lecturer in 1993 before climbing the ranks to deputy principal and then principal, had been diagnosed with a brain tumour last month.
A college spokesperson, who described Ms McLeod as a “much-loved principal” at the college, said she died suddenly in hospital yesterday.
Chief executive Stephen Grix said: “Sue was an exceptional leader who inspired students and staff alike, and her commitment and passion for teaching was what drove her.”
Scottish-born Ms Mcleod became MidKent College’s first female principal on September 1. Before joining the college, she worked across the Caribbean, United States and Europe during her time in the travel industry, including a stint aboard cruise liners.
She had earlier achieved a degree in business studies at the Dorset Institute of Higher Education — now Bournemouth University — where she returned to study travel and tourism before embarking on her teaching career with MidKent College.
A highlight of her time as principal came in February when she visited Buckingham Palace to accept the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for further and higher education from the Queen on behalf of the College.
“Her energy, enthusiasm and ability to motivate others will be sorely missed. We have lost a very dear friend and a great principal,” said Mr Grix, who Ms Mcleod had succeeded as principal.
Vice principal Simon Cook has been appointed acting principal.
Sometimes you see a story like this one and it puts all the other stuff going on in FE into stark perspective. I had met Sue and she was someone who clearly cared about the service that her college was giving to the community of Mid-Kent. There is not much more one can really say that is more fitting than ‘she cared’ and that she will leave a void that will take some time to fill. Condolences to her family and all at the college.
This woman helped many have successful lives. She helped me lots during the last year at college. Rest in paradise you wonderful woman.
My thoughts are with her friends and family.
Such dreadful, tragic news. Another light in the world of Education has been extinguished. My thoughts and condolences to Sue’s family.
my thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. May you live on in the the spirit of inspiring many more future generations in achieveing their dreams.