Tributes have been paid to a St Anne’s third-year student who passed away at the end of first week.
Joel Lewis joined Oxford in 2015 to study Computer Science. During his time at the University, he found success in both academic and non-academic fields. He competed for the University’s taekwondo team and won two competitions against Cambridge. He had also spent time working at an internship and had secured a second for this summer.
The principal of St Anne’s, Helen King, paid tribute to Lewis. She said: “We are devastated by Joel’s sudden and tragic death. He was a valued and cared for member of the College who is sorely missed.
“Our sympathy and thoughts are with his family and friends. I am proud of the way the whole College community is coming together to support one another as we grieve the loss of this talented young life.
“Trained College and University staff are on site to assist and a room has been dedicated as a 24 hour available space for anyone who wants to talk or just silently reflect at this sad time.”
The Computer Science department have also spoken about their sadness at the news. Head of Department Mike Wooldridge said: “I am shocked and very saddened by this tragic death, and on behalf of the Department of Computer Science I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Joel’s family and friends. I urge anyone who is struggling to come to terms with this tragic death to seek the support that is on offer.”
The college said: “A fuller tribute to Joel and arrangements to remember his life will take place in the coming weeks with details being made available in due course.”
If any readers wish to pay tribute to Joel Lewis, please get in touch via [email protected].
