Remembering John McArthur: supporting students from across the globe

John McArthur was only in Sheffield for a few years, but the impact the University and the city had on him was immeasurable. Years on, and miles away in New Zealand, John still remembered Sheffield with great fondness. When John passed he eternalised his connection to the steel city with a generous gift in his Will to support scholarships. 

John voyaged from New Zealand to study for a PhD at Sheffield in 1966. Hailing from the mountainous South Island city of Nelson in 1941, it’s little surprise that he was drawn to the sweeping vistas of the Peak District. John’s thesis, A Geomorphological Study of the Upper Derwent Basin, Derbyshire, was completed in 1970.

John later returned to New Zealand and forged a successful career in academia, with colleagues noting that his “exhilarating field stories, classroom performances and wit are legendary”. His impact on the geography programme at Massey University was described as  immeasurable. Nicknamed “Dr Rock”, he’s remembered as a superb geomorphologist, a brilliant teacher, and a kind soul who always had students’ interests at heart. 

Sheffield was not the only university to benefit from John’s generosity. John remained in the geography department of Massey University until he retired in 1997. John also left a gift in his Will to support research scholarships to help students undertake research at master’s level at the University of Massey. 

From the Peak District to the Tararua Range, John’s passion for educating the next generation and the outdoors covered the entire world.

As a student himself, John was active not only in the geographical landscape, but also in the sports arena. He was involved with sailing and basketball. His love of sailing followed him back to New Zealand alongside his love of walking, gardening, and puzzles. He also loved to cook and would share his famous ratatouille with his students on field trips.  

John’s positive experience of Sheffield always stayed with him, and he remained a lifelong advocate for the style of academic independence he’d relished here. A kind gift in his Will created the John McArthur Scholarship, empowering talented undergraduate and postgraduate scholars who would otherwise struggle with financial challenges to realise their full potential at Sheffield.

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Mr McArthur and his family. The opportunities I have been able to seize this year are thanks to your support, and I carry your kindness with me every day. Your scholarship has not only made my first year at university wonderful, but it has also inspired me to pursue a career where I can give back to others in the future.

Hannah, BA Geography

This year truly has been a monumental opportunity to grow as a person in all aspects of my life. Much of these opportunities would not have been possible, or I would have lacked the confidence to undertake them, if not for your support. Thank you so much for enabling that growth by donating my scholarship, and allowing me to construct new experiences before journeying beyond university.

Lucien, BA Geography & Planning

The support we receive has never been more vital, as many families are facing greater financial difficulties. Gifts to scholarships will enhance the University’s ability to encourage and support talented students from non-traditional university backgrounds to apply to university – and will help us to enhance their experiences and give them the means to take full advantage of everything a university experience has to offer.

The University is deeply moved to have been held in such lasting regard by John, and that –  more than 50 years later – his legacy from halfway around the world is supporting the brightest students right here on our doorstep.

Leaving a gift in your will or making a donation now

If you would like further information about supporting the University now or in the future, please contact David Meadows. David is our Senior Philanthropy Manager for Legacies and a Sheffield graduate himself. He would love to have a confidential chat with you about supporting the University.

Telephone: 0114 222 1073
Email: d.meadows@sheffield.ac.uk