The team at sparqs were very saddened to receive news of the death of Professor Norman Sharp O.B.E. in June 2023. As the first Director of QAA Scotland, Norman was one of the architects of the Scottish Quality Enhancement Framework, introduced 20 years ago and still envied across the world. His commitment to, and passion for, the role of students in quality was one of the driving forces in establishing sparqs. He continued to share this passion internationally and has influenced change in many countries. Students and staff across Scotland, as well as around the world, owe so much to his vision.
Norman was chair of sparqs’ Steering Committee from October 2011 and then continued to become the inaugural chair of the Trustee Board as sparqs became a registered charity in December 2015, until February 2019. During this time, he guided us expertly through what might have been periods of uncertainty, were it not for his steady leadership.
Kindness and wisdom are words that continually emerge as we remember Norman. Rarely, has someone balanced such vision and drive to make things better with such a natural ability to make everyone he came across feel valued and supported. Despite earning such respect and regard from everyone he worked with, he had not one ounce of self-importance; he was such a warm and genuine man.
sparqs as an organisation owes Norman a great debt of gratitude. Personally, we all carry fond memories, are very proud to have known him and are sincerely grateful for the individual support he has given us.
Family and friends gathered at Paisley Abbey on Friday 30th June for a service celebrating Norman’s life. Our sincere condolences go to Norman’s wife, Margaret, and his family. We hope knowing how much we all cared for and respected Norman will be of comfort.