Katie Henderson 1981 - 2015
Monday, 22 June 2015
Katie Henderson - photograph: Philip Hatzis (www.tritrainingharder.com)
On Friday 12 June the University lost our wonderful colleague, Katie Henderson, aged 33, in a fatal car collision in Staffordshire. Katie joined the University's Admissions Office in January 2013 and has worked, with boundless enthusiasm and energy, to support admissions to the University since then. Katie was, quite simply, an inspiration to us all. Not only was she an excellent colleague, always bringing a positive approach to every aspect of her work here, she was also a dear friend to many of us.
Outside of her busy work in admissions, Katie was an internationally acclaimed sportswoman, who regularly trained at the University's Sports Park. Setting world, European and masters swimming records, including being crowned England women's aquathlon champion in 2013, as well as breaking two world records in 2009 for the 100m and 200m breaststroke, Katie also won numerous age-group races, took part in the elite British Triathlon Super Series and won an ITU World Age Group medal in Beijing in 2011. Last year she qualified for and won a medal at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Canada. Katie was part of a sponsored triathlon squad and recognised as one of the best swimmers in the sport.
In addition to all of this Katie was selected, last December, as one of four guides for visually impaired triathletes training for the 2016 Paralympic Games. Katie undertook all of her training whilst also working full time at the University, often training for hours before coming in to work each morning.
Despite her relentless schedule, Katie was always enthusiastic and smiling. We, in the Admissions Office, continue to be immensely proud of all of Katie's achievements and to have known and worked with her. Katie encouraged all of us to lead active, healthier lifestyles and we will ensure that her legacy lives on at the University.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with all her family, fellow athletes and friends.
Samantha Drage, Senior Admissions Manager
Following Katie's tragic death, a justgiving site has been set up to raise money for the British Triathlon Foundation Trust.
https://www.justgiving.com/Katies-legacy/
National & local news coverage
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-stoke-staffordshire-33150508