Barrington Leigh funds created

University College and the Departments of Mathematics and Physics have set up a pair of memorial funds in the name of Robert Barrington Leigh.

The young UC math and physics student went missing Aug. 13 near his home in Edmonton, prompting a massive search. His body was found Aug. 22 in the North Saskatchewan River.

The many students, faculty and staff who knew Barrington Leigh were eager to pay him tribute. At University College, the Robert Barrington Leigh Memorial Fund has been created to allow them to contribute to the Trudeau Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies in his name. Ken Aucoin, director of alumni and development at UC, said the centre was chosen in consultation with Barrington Leigh’s family who felt it reflected one of his interests. Donations can be made through the UC alumni and development office.

“We have been gratified by the response from the university community,” Aucoin said. “Robert touched a great many people at University College.”

The Departments of Mathematics and Physics, where Barrington Leigh was a popular student, have jointly established a scholarship fund in Barrington Leigh’s memory. Donations may be made through the advancement office at the Faculty of Arts & Science.

“Robert was an exceptional student in our department,” said Professor John Bland, chair of mathematics, in a memo to his students, faculty and staff. “We got to know him quickly because he was already taking graduate courses by his second year. But we were impressed not only by his talent. Robert was an exceptional young person in every way — always smiling and pleasant, polite, kind and helpful to his fellow students. He was very well liked. We will miss him dearly.”