26 November 2012 Lincoln University acknowledges the passing of Diana, Lady Isaac

Appreciation for a generous life well lived should accompany the natural sadness at the death of Diana, Lady Isaac, says Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Dr Andrew West.

Lady Isaac, who died in Christchurch on 23 November aged 91, held an honorary Doctor of Natural Resources degree from Lincoln University, conferred in 1998 for her outstanding work in nature conservation, through the Isaac Wildlife Trust, established in 1977, and the Peacock Springs project at McLean’s Island on the outskirts of Christchurch.

Peacock Springs Wildlife Park is a registered zoological garden and has received international scientific acclaim and recognition for its contribution to conservation and the protection and study of endangered birdlife, plants and aquatic creatures.

Lady Isaac was a magnificent benefactor and supporter of Lincoln University over many years. Her name is perpetuated in the University-based Isaac Centre for Nature Conservation and in scholarships and awards which she endowed.

The Lady Isaac Scholarship in Nature Conservation was introduced in 2000 and the Lady Isaac International Scholarship in Nature Conservation was introduced in 2004. The Diana Isaac Cup, created to recognise outstanding efforts incorporating native plants into the working lands of Selwyn District, was introduced in September this year and will be presented for the first time in 2013.

Lady Isaac worked closely with the Director of the Isaac Centre for Nature Conservation, Professor Ian Spellerberg, and will be sorely missed as a kindred spirit in the work they shared.

At Lincoln University’s graduation ceremony when receiving her honorary doctorate, Lady Isaac described the conservation work she began with her husband Neil, and subsequently carried on alone after being widowed in 1987, as a “way of life, a dream”.