The University has received a legacy from the estate of Professor Reg Foakes, founding Professor of the present-day School of English.
Reg Foakes passed away in December 2013. His legacy will support the Kent Opportunity Fund, which provides scholarships, student projects to enhance extra-curricular activities at Kent, and bursaries for students experiencing financial hardship.
Reg Foakes joined the University in 1965 and, with the encouragement of the then Dean of Humanities Guy Chilver, made an application to the Gulbenkian Foundation for a pioneering low-cost theatre. His efforts were rewarded with a substantial grant towards the cost and the then Vice-Chancellor, Dr Templeman, obtained additional funding. The theatre opened in 1969 and was named the Gulbenkian in recognition of the Gulbenkian Foundation’s philanthropic support.
Reg Foakes helped introduce degree programmes in drama and theatre, which were launched in the 1970s, as well as History and Philosophy of Art. Reg Foakes left the University in 1982 and joined the University of California, Los Angeles. He was awarded an honorary degree by the University in July 2009.
Alison Coles, Director of Development said: ‘We are hugely thankful for Professor Reg Foakes’ decision to remember the University in his will. His legacy will benefit the University long into the future, commemorate his life and honour his commitment to our students, which also continues through his support of the Foakes Prize.
‘Reg’s commitment to the Arts – both academic and extra-curricular – has left an enduring mark on the University and his legacy will long be felt by all of us.’
To learn more about leaving a legacy to the University, see www.kent.ac.uk/legacies.