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3 Mar 2010 15:28:35
A memorial service was held today (Wednesday) for a Chinese postgraduate student who died of cancer.
Star student Tian Hao was President of the Chinese Society and a postgraduate student in MA Mass Communications after graduating in BA (Hons) Media Production.
Her parents, classmates, teachers and other friends gathered at St Mary’s Church in Luton to celebrate Tian’s life and her achievements.
The service was led by Andrew Goodman, the chaplain of the Luton campus, and organised by the Tree House team along with the International Office.
After the service, friends and family of Tian gathered in the Tree House to share their memories of her and write their condolences in a Memory Book.
Revd Goodman said: “What made the service special was the musical performances and the contributions of our students. Everyone was touched. It is a sad moment for all of us, but it is a privilege to do something special for Tian and her family.”
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Les Ebdon CBE, said: “Most people who have had operations after being diagnosed with stage two cancer would despair but that was not Tian.
“She came back in autumn 2008 to complete her first degree and then registered for a Master’s degree last year.
“Tian was determined to serve others and became President of the Chinese Society at the University. She gave up her time and rest, which is essential for a cancer patient, to make sure that Chinese students have a sense of ‘home’ and can have a good experience abroad.
“Tian organised the ‘Chinese Film Festival’ to enrich the academic and social life for staff and students and organised Chinese students to experience Western culture such as Halloween.”
Her achievements included being named runner-up for International Student Award 2008 by the British Council, Best Student Award 2009 by the University of Bedfordshire, and also May Youth Award 2009 by China Agricultural University.
The Director of the International Office, Harry Wang, said: “Tian was truly a brilliant ambassador for China as well as for the two partner universities she studied at - China Agricultural University and the University of Bedfordshire. We hope her shining example will continue to inspire us all.”
It is hoped a scholarship will be set up in her honour.
