Colleagues across the CASE community were saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Eric Thomas, a profoundly influential figure in higher education and a champion for the educational advancement sector.

In 2004, he led the UK government’s task force on Voluntary Giving to Higher Education. Their landmark report 'Increasing Voluntary Giving to Higher Education', commonly referred to as the ‘Thomas Report’, defined a roadmap for advancement in the UK. This report was the catalyst for university investment in fundraising programmes and ongoing commitment to philanthropy in higher education. Its relevance is still observed today, as the Pearce and CASE-More UK Philanthropy reports reflect on the immense progress made since these initial recommendations.

From 2010 through 2014, Sir Eric served concurrently as a member of the CASE Board of Trustees and Chair of the CASE Europe Board of Trustees. Towards the end of his term, Sir Eric was a key driver behind and signer of the CASE Global Compact, which reinforced CASE’s global commitment and the interconnected nature of the profession. In recognition of Sir Eric’s continued commitment to CASE, he became a CASE Laureate in 2019.

On the news of Sir Eric’s passing, CASE President and CEO, Sue Cunningham said:

“Eric was an inspiration to many in CASE’s global community and a dear friend to CASE. He played a critical role in the growth of professional educational advancement in the UK, and supported our programmes in other parts of the world, including in Latin America. On a personal note, I feel so grateful to have known Eric. He demonstrated immense passion and dedication to CASE and our community – he truly understood the impact, joy and transformational impact of educational advancement.”

Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal of the University of Edinburgh, and former CASE Trustee has said:

“Eric Thomas’ untimely death deprives the CASE community of one of its stars. One of the many great pieces of advice he gave me was to get involved with CASE. The friends and contacts that I have made as a result of taking that advice have enriched my life, for that amongst other things, I will be forever grateful to him.

“Eric was warm, experienced and wise. His commitment to philanthropy in universities was sector-leading, but what I didn’t know until hearing his tributes is that he also threw considerable energy into supporting numerous small charities and other good causes, usually without fanfare or recognition. The words ‘Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened’ were spoken at his funeral, and I wholeheartedly endorse that sentiment. It was my pleasure to know Sir Eric and I will miss him.”

TJ Rawlinson, Director of Development and Alumni Relations at Cardiff University, previously worked with Eric for eleven years during his time as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bristol (2001-2015). She commented:

“Working with Eric was a privilege, pleasure and challenge – all at once. He was true to his beliefs and principles. The Thomas Report and Eric’s subsequent philanthropy leadership were powerful because he always asked penetrating questions, always listened carefully and assimilated, always built his vast knowledge and understanding of the world. He was the best of friends in every way. What a huge loss for the sector.”

Paul Tyack, Director of Advancement at the University of Newcastle, Sir Eric’s alma mater, expressed:

“Sir Eric’s unwavering message was clear – for universities to fundraise for the benefit of their students and research was not only desirable, but essential.

“I am fortunate to be one of countless people to have been guided by Eric, particularly in his role as inaugural chair for the £300m philanthropic Campaign for Newcastle University. I know he was proud to have helped launch an initiative that will create countless opportunities for future generations. He will be greatly missed.”

Our hearts go out to Sir Eric’s family, friends, and colleagues over his many years. His extensive contribution to the growth of the profession of educational advancement has touched many lives for which all at CASE are immensely grateful.