Skip to main content Skip to footer

Ophelia Clarke Bursary

A special bursary has been set up in memory of Ophelia Clarke (2018) who tragically passed away during her first term at St John’s aged only 18 years old.

Generously, an anonymous donor has come forward with a substantial donation to help fund an endowed bursary in Ophelia’s name. The College would like to open up the opportunity to the wider Johnian community to contribute to this fund.

Ophelia Clarke matriculated at St John’s in 2018 but her time here was tragically cut short. As a student of Modern and Medieval Languages pursuing Spanish and ab initio Russian, Ophelia’s passion for her subject was clear to all who knew her. Ophelia’s kindness and generosity meant she made many friends whilst at John’s, all of whom felt her passing keenly.

Ophelia quickly established herself in College as an immensely valued, warm and friendly member of her subject peer group who approached academic work in an upbeat collaborative spirit… Those who taught Ophelia remember especially the vivid energy and joy she brought with her in to the classroom.

Taken from Ophelia’s obituary in The Eagle (2019) by Annis May Timpson, former Director of Education & Senior Tutor of St John’s

It is clear that although only at St John’s for a short time, Ophelia made a lasting impression. It is fitting that we are able to celebrate her life and her love of her subject by fundraising towards a bursary in her name. The bursary will be open to students studying Modern and Medieval Languages, giving others the same chance to pursue their studies in a subject so close to Ophelia’s heart.

CTA Card Skip CTA Card

Ophelia Clarke Bursary

To remember Ophelia and her time at John’s, the Ophelia Clarke bursary will support another student in their pursuit of academic excellence in the study of MML and help them to immerse themselves in and to enrich College life. What a fitting legacy for Ophelia to leave.
We hope you will support us in this aim.

Donate