Sad passing of Stuart McCutcheon | Riddet Institute Chair

The Riddet Institute’s staff and students were extremely shocked and saddened at the news of Professor Stuart McCutcheon’s recent death.

Stuart was appointed as the Chair of the Riddet Institute Board in 2021 and has been an enthusiastic supporter of the Institute. He was an inspiring and visionary leader, and we were very fortunate to have appointed him in this role. Stuart was very well known in New Zealand having held senior academic positions for many years, including Assistant Vice Chancellor Research at Massey University and Vice Chancellor of both Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Auckland.

Prof Jan Thomas, Vice Chancellor, Massey University, who was on the Riddet Institute Board with Stuart, noted that his death was a great loss not just to the Riddet Institute but to the wider New Zealand and international academic communities.

Stuart attended the recent Riddet Institute Colloquium in Napier and delegates appreciated him as an engaging and perceptive person. His ability to connect with people at all levels was truly inspirational.

We thoroughly enjoyed working with Stuart for his positive outlook, friendly manner and great humour – he will be sorely missed.

The Riddet Institute extends its deepest sympathy to his family and friends.