By Daniel Wood
Dr Amir Saeed was described as a ‘brilliant and passionate’ educator by students.
Students have been paying tribute to a Huddersfield University lecturer, who has been described as an ‘incredible educator’ with a passion for his topics.
Dr Amir Saeed joined the University in 2014 and was a senior lecturer in journalism and media.
He had written about Racism, Race and Islamophobia and taught modules in media theory, sport, public relations and music.
In an email to students and staff Cornel Sandvoss, head of the department for media, journalism and film, wrote: “It is with great sorrow that I write to you to inform you of the passing of our friend and colleague, Dr Amir Saeed.
“Amir was an exceptionally passionate and compassionate educator and researcher. He was a tireless campaigner against racism and islamophobia, challenging patterns and structures of injustice and inequality.
“Like Mohammed Ali, of whom he was a great admirer, Amir sought to inspire his students, his friends and his colleagues to fight for a kinder, more inclusive, better world.
“I know that his proudest professional moments stemmed from those occasions when he knew had been an inspiration and role model to students, especially students from a minority background.
“There is, I think, no better way for us to honour Amir’s memory than to take these values to our hearts and continue this struggle. Amir will be greatly missed by all of us as a friend, as a lecturer, as a critical thinker, as a proud Glaswegian, a passionate Celtic supporter and in all the other important roles had to many of us.
“The Department will make a Book of Remembrance available in the foyer of the Journalism and Media Building for those of you who wish to share their thoughts and memories.”
Many students and former students paid tribute to Dr Amir Saeed on social media.
Sports Journalism graduate, Danny Senior tweeted: “Absolutely gutted to hear that @unihudmedia lecturer Amir Saeed has passed away.
“A brilliant lecturer who made learning engaging and enjoyable, and a thoroughly decent bloke who you could always have a laugh with. One of the good guys.”
Student Shaun Anderson tweeted: “Dr Amir Saeed’s passion was unmatched compared to most others who taught me.
“His seminars on music and race relations at @HuddersfieldUni still stick to me because of his character and demeanour.
“The news of his passing is truly saddening and fell we’ve lost a great educator.”
A former colleague of Amir, Chris Irvine added by tweeting: “Devastating news of the death of former @HuddersfieldUni colleague & office roommate Amir Saeed.
“Celtic have lost their greatest fan & students past & present have lost a guiding light, mentor and mate.
“Teaching with Amir was a joy. Such a bundle of energy and inspiration. RIP old friend.”
Richard McCulloch, another colleague of Amir’s, tweeted: “Absolutely heartbroken over the death of my friend and colleague at Huddersfield, Amir Saeed, with whom I shared an office for 3 years.
“One of the funniest and kindest people I have worked with. I’m devastated that he’s gone.”
Student Millie Ashcroft called Dr Saeed “an amazing man” while Javaid Ali said he was a “true legend” who strove to help everyone.
An abundance more of past and present students and colleagues paid tributes to Dr Amir Saeed and it is very evident that he left a huge impact on many people’s lives.