In Memoriam John Axford

It is with deep sadness and regret that we announce the passing of Emeritus Fellow, Dr John Axford

Within the Oxford University Department for Continuing Education (OUDCE), John Axford taught computing with a special emphasis on management skills. Initially he joined Continuing Professional Development and helped set up the MSc programme in Software Engineering. Later he directed two undergraduate level awards in OUDCE and helped pioneer one of the Department’s first awards to be delivered over the Internet. He retired in 2005.

John Axford originally graduated in Physics and came to Kellogg from a long career in research and development with IBM.  He had a wide experience of computing technology and in management. In more recent years, motivated by a desire to put something back into education, he served on a number of national bodies including the Council for National Academic Awards, the Council of the Foundation for Science and Technology, and the former HEQC Degree Awarding Powers Committee.  He also did accreditation work for the British Computer Society, and served as Chair of the BCS Accreditation Committee.  He was an Honorary Fellow of the BCS.

Professor Jonathan Michie said: “John was such a wonderful member of the College community. He was always positive and constructive – and took pride in the continued development of his College. He will be missed greatly by us all – and remembered with respect.”

Our thoughts are with his family and friends.