Staff at The Sheffield College have paid tribute to former colleague Christian Marriott.
Angela Foulkes CBE, Chief Executive and Principal, The Sheffield College, said: “We are devastated to hear the extremely sad news about the passing of Chris Marriott.
“On behalf of our college community, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to Chris’s family and friends. Our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time.
“Current and former staff have been in touch expressing their shock and sharing their memories of Chris, which are testament to the lasting positive impact that he had.
“Chris was a highly respected and very well liked member of staff. He worked for the college for over a decade until 2012 advising and supporting students.
"Chris’s roles during that time included managing student services as well as coordinating student recruitment and financial support.
“Chris was a great person to work with. Colleagues fondly remember how he always took the time to get to know people, which led to a strong team spirit.
“Chris really supported his team and was very approachable. He possessed a quiet strength of character, determination and a positive outlook that inspired colleagues. He was generous with his time and kind and considerate of others’ feelings. He always looked for the best in others and had a good word for everyone.
“Chris was always willing to go the extra mile to make things happen. He once came into college over the holidays and along with colleagues processed 1,500 late course applications so that applicants wouldn't have to wait.
“Chris was extremely proactive in making sure that disadvantaged students, including those studying ESOL courses, received the support they needed.
“Chris would get things done in the most practical and caring way and he helped to open doors for hundreds of students to study. Those students and his colleagues were eternally grateful for his support.
“Chris was also very adept at creating new processes to help improve things for students and staff and all of this was done with good humour and a smile.
“Chris used to talk about the work he did for the church and other charities and the importance of this in his life. When he left the college to work for City Church Sheffield, he was so excited. When he set up one of the first food banks in the city, he offered to support any college students in need.
“Nothing was ever too much trouble for Chris. He was kind and generous with his time. He really cared about students and staff alike - he was truly student first. We will be organising a fitting tribute to Chris and his legacy.”
