Sir Donald Walters
4 July 2017
Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Riordan has paid tribute to former Council Chair Sir Donald Walters, who has died.
Sir Donald Walters was a key figure in Cardiff University’s history. His long association with Cardiff University first began in 1988 with his election to Chair of University Council.
He held the position of Chair for 10 years, and remained as an extremely active member of Council until July 2010. He was also a former University Vice-President; Pro-Chancellor and; Chairman of the Cardiff University Pensions Fund.
Professor Riordan said: “It was with great sadness that the University community learned of the death of Sir Donald Walters...”
“His financial and organisational acumen gained from the commercial world and as a barrister helped secure the successful management of the University following the merger of the former University College Cardiff and the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology. This helped lay the foundations for the successful Cardiff University we see today.”
“He will also be remembered for the interest he took in our student community. Sir Donald is fondly remembered by colleagues at Cardiff University Students’ Union.
“The University owes a great debt of gratitude to Sir Donald. He will be sadly missed.”
An influential figure
Not only was Sir Donald an influential figure in the success of Cardiff University he also played a significant part in the development of modern Wales.
He held key roles in the former Welsh Development Agency; the Development Board for Rural Wales; the Institute of Welsh Affairs; the Welsh National Opera and; Llandough Hospital NHS Trust.
He was awarded a Knighthood in 1983 and served as High Sheriff of South Glamorgan from 1987-88. Sir Donald was also a Clerk to the Dean and Chapter of Llandaff Cathedral.
Professor Riordan added: “On behalf of Cardiff University I extend our sincere condolences to Sir Donald’s family at this extremely difficult time.”
