Michael Balmond, Postgraduate Admissions Co-ordinator, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on 1 September, aged 51.
Michael first joined Sussex in March 2009 as Postgraduate Co-ordinator for SPRU before moving on to join the Admissions team. Prior to this, he worked for a number of years at the University of Brighton and kept close friendships with many of his colleagues at both universities.
As well as being a continually reliable and committed member of the Admissions team, Michael will be remembered not only for his love of baking - which often meant his colleagues being treated to fresh home-made bread and treats - but for his passion for fitness, having led Postgraduate Admissions to victory in Sussexsport’s Commit to Get Fit challenge for two consecutive years in his position as joint captain and blog writer for the team.
He was also a talented artist, photographer and poet, having had several pieces of writing published in the Guardian and winning the Our Lives digital photography competition in 2008.
Known as an exceptionally supportive friend and colleague, Michael was widely appreciated as someone who would regularly go out of his way to look out for the wellbeing of others. He had worked as a volunteer for the Probation Service, helping to integrate offenders back into society, and was due to begin training to become a counsellor.
Former colleagues remembered Michael fondly. One said: “When I first started working here, Michael was the first person to talk to me and made a real effort to help me feel included, which is something I witnessed him do for everyone who would pass through our office.
“He loved to find out about people and was great at scratching the surface to find common ground with anyone. With me, it was (among other things) our shared interest in ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, for which we held an annual office sweepstake – Michael would contribute by making impressively elaborate models of the hosts.
“I am thankful to have had the chance to get to know this wonderful man. He will never be forgotten.”
Another colleague said: “I treasure my time spent with Michael at work. We often shared observations and funny stories - he once told me a story about sightings of Brian May going about his everyday life that made me laugh so much I had to go and stand outside the office while I composed myself.
“We also loved spotting wildlife on campus - especially birds, their habits and song.
“Michael had an imaginative and creative mind and was always questioning and challenging the world around him. I miss him very much.”
Juliet Williams, Michael’s long-term partner, works at Sussex as Student Experience Officer in the School of Business, Management and Economics.
Juliet said: “It’s clear that Michael was treasured and will be sorely missed by everyone he knew at Sussex.
“I’ve received so many messages of condolence and support from those whose lives have been touched by his boundless warmth and generosity, for which I am incredibly grateful.”
Michael’s funeral was held in September at the Woodvale Crematorium in Brighton and was well attended by family, friends and colleagues.
- Michael was diagnosed with a basal cell carcinoma on his nose in 2007 and again in 2012, leading him to undergo a total of nine operations to remove the cancer and to reconstruct his nose and forehead. These experiences gave him a great sense of understanding and empathy with those affected by facial disfigurements, as did the support he received from Changing Faces, a charity he supported through regular donations. A JustGiving page has been set up in his memory.