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KINDNESS WITH IMPACT
From one chance to a thousand more
Arthur and Iris Higginbottom's lasting legacy
From one chance to a thousand more
Arthur and Iris Higginbottom's lasting legacy
Arthur Higginbottom never forgot what it felt like to be given a chance. In the 1940s, a scholarship changed the trajectory of his life — breaking a family cycle of leaving school at 14 and opening the door to a career in architecture designing the hospitals, churches, and public spaces that form the backdrop of our lives.
Decades later, Arthur and his wife, Iris, ensured others had that same opportunity. It’s a story of a fresh start in Sheffield, a life well-lived, and a quiet decision to pay kindness forward for generations of students.
Arthur’s path to Sheffield was paved during an era of significant struggle. Growing up in the Derbyshire village of Whitfield during the 1930s, a decade defined by high unemployment and the shadow of war, he understood the value of an opportunity.
Receiving a scholarship to study at Grammar School changed his life, and when the 1944 Education Act later made university a reality, Arthur never took it for granted.
He arrived at the School of Architecture in the early 1950s and embraced the full ‘Sheffield experience’. When not studying in the studio, Arthur was involved with the Architecture Society, the Entertainment Society, and the famously lively Sheffield RAG.
Meanwhile, Iris was growing up just over the hill in Glossop. They married in 1960 and eventually settled back there, building a life centred on classical music, a love of the Peak District landscape, friendships, and a healthy dose of competitive golf.
Throughout five decades together, the common thread was their deep devotion to one another.
Iris sadly passed away in 2011, leaving a void in Arthur’s life. His loss, however, gave him a sense of purpose: he wanted to create a tribute to Iris that was as enduring as their marriage.
Reflecting on how much he’d valued his own education, and how much it had shaped the life they built together, he decided to leave a gift in his Will to his alma mater.
When Arthur passed away, he left an incredible legacy; an endowment that’s grown to a current value of over £2.1 million.
What makes the gift so special is its longevity; as an endowment, the gift will provide scholarships for bright students every single year, indefinitely.
It's an ongoing engine for social mobility, helping those who, like Arthur, have the talent but lack the financial means to reach their full potential.
Teri is one of the students Arthur and Iris' gift has helped. Her undergraduate years were a constant juggle, working several part-time jobs just to make ends meet, often at the expense of the grades she knew she was capable of.
But during her master's degree, the scholarship provided by Arthur and Iris traded financial strain for time in the lab. Free to focus on her studies, Teri excelled.
“Arthur and Iris’ scholarship made an ‘impossible’ year possible for me.”
She achieved a Distinction at graduation and set her sights on pursuing the career she'd always dreamed of.
Her hard work and dedication paid off. Not long after graduating, Teri secured a job in genetic research at Trinity College, Dublin.
Like so many others who’ve benefitted from Arthur’s foresight, she is “immensely grateful” for the opportunity to see what she could achieve when her studies finally came first.
What will your legacy be?
Arthur and Iris’s story is a warm reminder of the lasting impact we can all leave behind. Every gift, no matter the size, can make a difference to the next generation.
Whether you’re passionate about helping students like Teri or backing Sheffield’s world-leading research, David Meadows — himself a Sheffield graduate — is here for a confidential chat.
Together, you can find a way to be remembered in a way that feels right for you and your family.
David Meadows
Senior Philanthropy Manager (Legacies)
T: +44 (0)114 222 1073
E: d.meadows@sheffield.ac.uk
Forged in Sheffield, Shaping the Future
The difference your support is making
The University of Sheffield’s new Director of Development & Alumni Relations, Rob Grimes, reflects on his first few months in the role and shares just some of the impact made possible thanks to our incredible supporter community.
Discover key philanthropic successes such as the latest in Sheffield’s neuroscience research, the power of scholarships for low-income students, the alumni volunteers opening their professional networks, and not forgetting the lasting legacy that is Sheffield’s sector-leading student experience.
Hello Sheffield alumni and friends of the University. I’m delighted to introduce myself and use this opportunity to update you on the ways alumni and friends are staying connected and getting involved.
Forged in Sheffield, Shaping the Future, our University’s first multimillion-pound fundraising and engagement campaign, has been a fantastic catalyst for a host of inspiring developments. And in the few short months that I’ve been in post, I’ve been struck, not only by how warm the welcome has been, but by how passionate this Sheffield community is about making a difference.
Everywhere I turn, I encounter a new project, update, team or individual that’s delivering real impact with genuine zest for Sheffield. It’s been great to meet alumni from different eras and subjects too. I think the words of Roy Stanley, whom I met on campus recently, represent the sentiment of many former students.
“I’m proud that Sheffield is a highly ranked Russell Group university. I had a very good five years, both academically and socially. Without Sheffield, the life that I have been fortunate to enjoy would not have happened. That is why I have pledged what will hopefully be a relevant contribution to the medical and dental elements of the University.”
Advancing life-changing research
Sheffield supporters give generously because they know how transformative philanthropy is for universities, particularly when it comes to advancing life-changing research. Our supporter community has proven this in its ongoing dedication to the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN).
SITraN’s world-renowned expertise in neurological conditions such as motor neuron disease, Parkinson’s, dementia and stroke is as prolific as it is promising. Back in March, the University rightly celebrated the 27,000+ donations made to the recent drive to deliver the next generation of clinical research and drug discovery. In total, a range of donors, fundraisers and foundations have collectively contributed an incredible £14 million to double SITraN’s research capacity. Construction on site is well underway, with research teams looking forward to ‘moving in’ from early 2027.
“MND research is crucial for finding more treatments and trying to improve the lives of others like me, living with the disease.”
Equality of opportunity for students
Right now on campus, over 1,000 students are currently completing their degrees thanks to those alumni and friends giving to Access to Sheffield Scholarships.
For low-income students, scholarships do more than help pay bills. They improve social mobility by granting access to a more well-rounded and enjoyable university experience. By boosting employability, well-being and confidence, scholarship students are more likely to fulfil their potential and go on to use their degrees to the benefit of wider society.
Beyond scholarships, donor-funded initiatives like the Ambition Programme supported students before and after they enrolled. Funded by Sheffield alumnus Andrew Law, the Ambition scheme recognises the distinct challenges that at-risk cohorts face, and uses tailored support to reduce gaps in attainment.
“I was able to attend the optional Amsterdam trip which I found exciting and inspiring. I know for some students attending that trip was not an option. I feel for them because I understand what it’s like to not be able to afford what your friends can.”
The impact of your regular donations
Student life as a whole is enriched daily thanks to the Sheffield Made community, whose regular donations collectively achieve big impact. From student clubs and societies, to medical electives and undergraduate research schemes. These extra and co-curricular activities are what help set Sheffield students apart, providing opportunities to explore new interests and learn new skills.
It’s been incredible to see 397 brand-new regular donors join the Sheffield Made community since we launched Forged in Sheffield — welcome and thank you!
“Thank you so much from the Film Making Society! Your contributions have not gone unnoticed and we greatly appreciate your investment in our future filmmaking endeavours!”
The gift of time
But it’s not just those who make donations who make a difference. More alumni than ever before are coming to our events and getting involved in alumni volunteering.
City Connections brings alumni volunteers together with current students
City Connections brings alumni volunteers together with current students
In the last academic year alone, 1,064 individual alumni contributed over 20,000 hours of their time to support University causes — an increase of 16% in hours since we launched the campaign. It’s especially impressive to see that a third of all alumni volunteers are based outside the UK, representing Sheffield’s indisputable global reach and bringing our ever-changing world closer to campus.
Many alumni choose to give their time to mentor, encourage and inspire current students; helping them build career paths, professional networks and self-belief that many students struggle to build otherwise.
“It seemed like everyone else had a support network of family members who had gone through it all before while I was essentially starting from scratch.”
We’ve seen flagship initiatives like City Connections encourage alumni to open both their doors and their networks to top employers such as the BBC, Meta, the Bank of England, and Sony. And I know a few alumni have even been savvy enough to spot top student talent for themselves, offering work placements and other opportunities.
It’s wonderful to see so many talented and interesting alumni give back in this way. Whether it’s taking the time to share your story, impart your expertise, or open your business, thank you for giving your precious time to support the next generation of Sheffield graduates.
What else can we achieve?
But we’re not done yet. The Forged in Sheffield campaign is still live and we’re committed to delivering even more impact before we stop the clock. When we launched, we said we can’t do this without you — our community of alumni, friends and partners — by our side.
You can ensure Sheffield’s first campaign of this size, scope and ambition leaves a legacy that goes on to secure:
- At least 500 scholarships every year for low-income students.
- A new era of neuroscience research at SITraN with access to the very best lab equipment, research talent, clinical trials, and key technical roles.
- Meaningful growth in international mentorship, careers support and work placements.
I recently learnt that 125 years ago, the local people of Sheffield helped found the University through community philanthropy. Today, it’s clear a very similar spirit endures. The annual Big Walk is perhaps the most visible example of this in action. An event I’m intrepidly hoping to take part in next year!
But there are so many more of you who choose to share what you have, for the benefit of others. On behalf of the University and all those touched by your kindness, thank you.
Rob Grimes, Director of Development & Alumni Relation
Be a part of
Forged in Sheffield
Can you help make Forged in Sheffield, Shaping the Future an even bigger success?
Reimagining South Yorkshire
Made Together: A healthier, greener, more vibrant region
Reimagining South Yorkshire
Made Together: A healthier, greener, more vibrant region
Working with partners across South Yorkshire, the University of Sheffield is helping to make the region a better place for all. This commitment has paved the way for remarkable progress.
By harnessing the collective expertise and research excellence of passionate staff, the Made Together initiative has developed a number of new partnerships with local authorities, businesses, and communities have been successfully forged and a number of exciting projects are now under way.
The result? A region that is healthier, greener, brimming with vitality and constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation. Here are just a few of the recent highlights that have been Made Together.
Celebration of culture
Hundreds of multilingual children from across Sheffield have helped create a huge ‘Quilt of Welcome’, celebrating the many languages spoken in the city while sending a welcoming message to others.
Children from 13 schools and three hospital settings came together to create the artwork to celebrate the words that make them feel happy, welcome and safe. Hand-crafted from 396 individual fabric patches with help from 100 volunteers, the quilt honours local pupils who together speak more than 150 different languages.
Led by University linguistics experts, the project highlights how linguistic diversity enriches local classrooms and communities, giving young people a creative platform to represent their cultural heritage. “This quilt is a powerful symbol of belonging, showing how every language enriches our city’s story,” says project lead Dr Mark Smith.
The finished quilt is now touring libraries, schools, and civic spaces across the city.
Powering South Yorkshire startups
The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Ferretworks: Startup programme bridges the gap between academic brilliance and commercial reality.
By providing world-class engineering expertise and facilities, the AMRC is supporting the business ventures of up-and-coming regional entrepreneurs.
The first cohort of startups on this programme includes DigitalCNC: An AI spinout streamlining aerospace manufacturing, Nasalyzer: Developing a “breath test” to detect gastric cancer early, and Tasty Spoon™: A device helping Alzheimer’s patients regain their sense of taste
Championing local identity
A new University study has quantified Sheffield’s vibrant craft alcohol scene, finding that 42% of specialised alcohol outlets are independently owned. Interestingly, the city’s artisans are ditching the “craft” label, viewing it as corporate-owned, in favour of “independent.”
Researchers recommend forming “Sheffield Indy Drinks,” a collective body to promote the city’s unique heritage. This movement mirrors Sheffield’s history as a city of makers, emphasising quality and community over mass-market profit.
Designing for dignity
As part of our annual ‘make-a-thon’ engineering competition, students proved that sometimes the most impactful tech is the simplest. They worked with Frank Gardener, a blind amateur Sheffield chef, to solve the challenge of food presentation.
The team used 3D printing to create a tactile plate organiser. Featuring Braille markings and sloped rings, the divider allows Frank to plate meals aesthetically for his guests, ensuring the “visual” appeal of his cooking matches its taste. “I was gobsmacked by how clever they all are,” Frank noted.
It’s a perfect reminder that at Sheffield, innovation isn’t just about big machines, it’s about the people they serve.
We are Sheffield Made
A community of support
A growing community of over a thousand alumni and friends, Sheffield Made brings together people who make a regular gift to support the University's most promising students and projects.
These gifts help students from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds access a university education, funding over 350 scholarships each year. They also fund vital research into serious medical conditions such as MND, Parkinson’s and childhood lung disease.
Why do so many choose to be a part of it? For some, it's their way of saying 'thank you' for the opportunities a Sheffield education afforded them. Others want to improve social mobility and open doors for students facing barriers that prevent them from accessing higher education or making the most of their experience once they're here. For others, it's about backing the experts whose innovative research has the potential to change lives. One thing they each have in common is a shared pride in a University that shaped them.
We are all Sheffield Made
“I received financial support when I needed it most which allowed me to fully focus on my studies. Giving regularly now feels like a meaningful way to pay that forward.”
Sikose Mjali, Class of 2011
“I wouldn't be the person I am today without the life-changing knowledge and friendships I gained. I give regularly because I strongly believe in making higher education accessible to all."
Will Scott-Gall, Class of 2004
“We are both Sheffield graduates from a time when we received a grant towards our studies. Our regular donation is a small gesture to the next generation of students.”
Cheryl Christian, Class of 1983 and Nigel Christian, Class of 1979
“I choose to give back because I wish to help other young people from underrepresented backgrounds experience the kindness Sheffield has shown me.”
Evie Hughes, Class of 2024
“My life is richer for studying at such a fine University. It carries out vital research, which I continue to support. I have a personal interest as my husband is in the advanced stages of Parkinson's disease.”
Judith Haire, Class of 1981
“My time at Sheffield gave me lifelong friendships and an excellent education. I want to help others have access to the same quality of experience that I was fortunate enough to have.”
Matthew Grainger, Class of 2009
£14m boost to neuroscience research
Fundraising milestone reached
The University has reached a historic £14 million fundraising milestone to support the expansion of its world-renowned Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), nearly doubling its capacity to tackle motor neuron disease (MND) and other neurodegenerative conditions.
The expansion will provide additional lab space for advanced cell therapies, drug screening, and a super-computing satellite workstation where researchers will use machine learning to identify new treatment targets with unprecedented speed. The generosity of 27,000 donors made this possible.
“The research is a lifelong passion, but the work is complex. It’s the support and kindness of others that spurs us on to make discoveries that will benefit people with neurological conditions.”
Opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2010, SITraN bridges the gap between laboratory discoveries and patient care. The institute has already delivered landmark breakthroughs, including the world’s first successful gene-targeted clinical trials for specific forms of MND.
Construction is now under way opposite the Royal Hallamshire Hospital, with completion scheduled for autumn/winter 2026.
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