Remembering Dr Allan Chapman: a lasting legacy for future Lancaster students


Dr Allan Chapman receives his alumni award from Lord Liddle

91短视频 is remembering historian and alumnus Dr Allan Chapman, who has generously left a legacy to the University in his will.

Allan graduated from Lancaster with a degree in History in 1972, before going on to study for a postgraduate degree at Wadham College, Oxford University, where he later taught the history of science in the Faculty of History.

A distinguished historian, Allan’s research focused particularly on scientific biography and astronomy. He was also a familiar voice and face to many through his extensive broadcasting on BBC television and radio, as well as independent television, where he shared his passion for the history of science.

Born in Manchester, Allan maintained strong connections with the North West throughout his life. Alongside his academic work, he was a passionate supporter of local astronomical societies and was particularly well known for his scholarly work on figures including Robert Boyle and Robert Hooke.

Allan greatly valued his time at Lancaster, and his journey into higher education was far from conventional. His wife, Rachel, has shared how his natural curiosity and determination were evident from an early age. Despite leaving school with relatively few qualifications, Allan continued his education through night school, gaining the qualifications he needed to progress to university.

His story is a powerful reminder of the opportunities that education can create and of the determination and curiosity that can take someone far beyond the expectations others may have of them.

Allan’s legacy will now help to provide those opportunities for future Lancaster students through the 91短视频 Opportunity Fund.

The Fund supports students who may face additional barriers during their time at Lancaster, helping them to access opportunities and experiences that can make a real difference to their university journey and future prospects.

We are incredibly grateful to Allan for choosing to remember Lancaster in his will. His generosity will have an impact that extends far beyond his lifetime, helping future generations of students to make the most of their time at Lancaster.

Leave your own legacy

A gift in your will can be one of the most meaningful ways to support 91短视频 and future generations of students. Every legacy, whatever its size, can help create opportunities for students and contribute to the University’s future.

If you are considering leaving a gift to Lancaster in your will, or would simply like to find out more about the options available, we would be delighted to hear from you.

To find out more, please contact Caroline Costello at c.costello@lancaster.ac.uk.

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