£1 million gift from Dr Allen Samuels to enhance opportunities for disadvantaged students
Posted on 2 August 2024
Dr. Allen Michael Samuels was a writer and lecturer who worked in the University system for over 25 years. He attended the University of York, obtaining his undergraduate degree in English with Education Studies in 1970 before going on to get his PhD.
According to one of his colleagues, Dr. Allen Michael Samuels was the most socially adept person he had ever met, commanding any room or conversation he walked into.
Sadly, in December 2022, he passed away at the age of 79, leaving a generous gift of over £1 Million to the University of York. This gift will be used to remove all gaps towards success and progression at the University, from undergraduate to early career research. It will be hugely influential to the University of Opportunity, which at its heart is about supporting disadvantaged students in the most impactful way possible. The gift will also help to support wider initiatives in opportunity and access, across all ages.
In his lifetime, Dr. Allen Samuels was a donor to the University, contributing to York Scholarship funds. His donations were made during OPPA’s annual student calling campaigns which shows how talented and professional our student callers are, the impact they have on our alumni, and the important contribution they make to our fundraising programme.
One of our YuCallers, Rhianna, a 3rd year Biology student stated:
"It is absolutely incredible to see just how vast of an impact a call can have. Knowing that my words, and the connection formed during the call, have the potential to make this much of an impression on someone is so motivating. It is so rewarding to be part of a team that does incredible work like this and has a long- lasting impact on the university community."
Gifts like this go a long way in supporting our goal in becoming a true University of Opportunity for all, and help create a lasting legacy for years to come.
To find out about gifts in wills, or to talk about anything legacy related, please reach out to our Legacy Officer, Maresa Bailey on 07385 976145 or email her at maresa.bailey@york.ac.uk.