Margaret Refsum, Advanced Certificate in Nursery Education (died 21 January 2022, aged 90)
Obituary written by Anne Hunter, Queen’s Women Graduates Association
Margaret Refsum’s association with Queen’s University began in 1962 when her husband, Dr Alf Refsum joined the Department of Electrical Engineering as an associate lecturer at Queen’s University. As a graduate and educator herself, she joined the Queen’s Women Graduates’ Association (QWGA), became an active committee member and was both secretary for many years and then became president in 1998. In 1989 her interest in education led to her involvement in the setting up of a public speaking competition for girls; an event which she has helped to organise ever since. Over the years this event has grown and today QWGA liaises with the Irish Federation of University Women (IrFUW) to host an annual final in Dublin.
Margaret was an accomplished organiser. During her presidential year Queen’s hosted the IrFUW conference in addition to the regular association events. As an active member of the University Women’s Club, Margaret served on the committee both as secretary and president from where she ensured that there was a rich variety of interesting speakers invited to address each meeting. She was also able to access unusual destinations for the club’s annual outing.
In more recent times Margaret ensured that contact was maintained between QWG and UWC members, particularly important in these isolating times. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
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