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Heriot-Watt University’s Maths Gym has been renamed in honour of the philanthropist and advocate of higher education, John ‘Iain’ Campbell.
Mr Campbell is one of Heriot-Watt’s longest-standing supporters, having graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Chemical Engineering from the University in 1972. He then embarked on a successful career in law and business spanning more than 50 years. Mr Campbell now lives in Arizona in the US where his passion for Heriot-Watt has not diminished.
His philanthropic efforts over the years have directly benefited students such as through the Mary Burton Project, which is a scholarship encouraging women to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects. He has also provided significant contributions to fund student internship opportunities through the Career Ready partnership.
Renaming our Maths Gym in honour of Iain, is a mark of not just our profound gratitude towards him but a tribute of his forthright dedication to higher education.
More recently, Mr Campbell stepped down from the board of the US charity, American Friends of Heriot-Watt University, where he served as a Director for almost a decade.
In recognition of his steadfast and lasting support, the University has renamed its Maths Gym, The Campbell Maths Gym.
Mr Campbell said: “Mathematics can be intimidating.
“When I heard about the Maths Gym I was impressed by the concept. Providing an opportunity for students to get a little extra help with mathematics in a low key, non-intimidating environment is an excellent way to help students overcome maths phobia.
“I am very happy to support The Campbell Maths Gym and proud to have my name associated with it.”
Launched in 2020, The Campbell Maths Gym is open to all degree course students across Heriot-Watt’s global campuses. It is staffed by mathematics teaching experts, aided by a team of graduate teaching assistants, to strengthen mathematical and statistical skills and boost mathematical confidence.
Support is available in the form of drop-in sessions, small group appointments, workshops, and online resources.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, said: “Renaming our Maths Gym in honour of Iain, is a mark of not just our profound gratitude towards him but a tribute of his forthright dedication to higher education.
“Iain’s generosity has ensured many students have had the opportunity to study at this University in the pursuit of academic excellence and to forge bright futures in their chosen careers.
“His impact on the lives of others cannot be adequately measured and I wish to take this opportunity to thank him for his support.”
Dr Emma Coutts, Director of The Campbell Maths Gym, thanked Mr Campbell for his commitment, saying: “Through Iain’s generosity, The Campbell Maths Gym will continue to offer aid to all our students around the world.
“This has, and will continue to be, a valuable tool for our global student community. We look forward to many more years of promoting the importance of mathematics and help to instil greater confidence in their abilities to problem solve.”
Investing in student enrichment programmes like The Campbell Maths Gym is a key goal in Heriot-Watt’s upcoming Shaping Futures fundraising campaign. For information about philanthropic opportunities that benefit students at Heriot-Watt University, please contact Andrew Mackinnon, Senior Development Executive (Individual and Major Gifts) a.mackinnon@hw.ac.uk.