A generous bequest to the University of Kent from the late Professor Philip Robinson has established several fully funded scholarships for PhD students in French Language and Culture.
Professor Robinson, who was Emeritus Professor in Eighteenth-Century French Studies, had a distinguished academic career. His research focused on nineteenth-century French culture and the history of ideas, with particular interests in Rousseau, comedy and music, Beaumarchais, Bernardin de Saint-Pierre, and Marivaux.
His legacy gift was planned carefully, and as a result these scholarships are able to provide a doctoral stipend, tuition fees, and access to a research training support grant to ensure that students can fully engage in their academic work.
Amy Bergman, one of the recently appointed scholars, shared: “I am honoured and extremely grateful to be a recipient of the Philip Robinson Scholarship, as studying for a PhD has long been a goal of mine. I completed my undergraduate studies in French, then went on to earn a Master’s degree in Paris. After two years away from academia, I’m excited to finally begin this long-awaited chapter as I start my doctoral studies.
“A scholarship such as this one is a rare opportunity. For it to arise at the University of Kent feels particularly lucky: being as close as one can be to France with its archives and libraries, Kent is the ideal place to undertake research in French.
“I am profoundly grateful to the late Professor Philip Robinson and his family for this opportunity, one that I do not take for granted. I very much look forward to making the most of the invaluable years ahead, made possible by his generosity.”
While Professor Robinson made a generous and significant planned gift, legacy support can take many forms. Even a small percentage of one’s estate can have a lasting impact by supporting students, advancing academic fields, and contributing to future research.
If you are considering leaving a gift to the University of Kent in your will, our free wills service is available for a limited time. You can complete your will online, over the phone, or in person.
If you would like to discuss your plans confidentially with our team, please contact Jenny Richardson.