Jen couch — 5 December 2025

Les was one of my first lecturers and mentors, and one of the people who truly changed the course of my life. As a working-class, mature-age student bewildered by university life, I often felt out of placebut Les never let me feel alone in that. He encouraged me, supported me, and helped me see that I belonged.Before the pandemic, we would meet and talk about everythingfrom ideas and work to the strange, winding journey in and out of academia. Those conversations grounded me and reminded me of the bigger, human reasons behind what we do.Les carried so much love for his family, a deep commitment to community, and an enormous multicultural heart that welcomed everyone. His warmth, wisdom, and generosity shaped countless lives, mine included.Thank you, Les, for all you gave me. I will always be grateful.