Melanie Jasper 1954-2014 
PhD, Masters (Nursing), BSc (Nursing), BA (Social Sciences), Cert Ed (Adults), RN, RM, HV
It is with great sadness that we report the untimely death of Professor Melanie Jasper, the head of the College of Human and Health Sciences at Swansea University.
Melanie was a registered general nurse, midwife and health visitor and a graduate of Manchester University (1977 & 1994), the Open University, University of Surrey, and Portsmouth University (1999).
Throughout her career Melanie was committed to research and practice, especially in how nurses can develop the skills of leadership and reflection in practice. This is reflected in her work such as Effective Healthcare Leadership (2005), Vital notes for Nurses: Professional Development, Reflection and Decision Making (2008) and Beginning Reflective Practice (2nd Ed, 2013). Her leadership capacity has been applauded by many, including the vice chancellor of Swansea University, Professor Richard Davies, and Ceri Phillips, the current acting head of the College.
Recently she served as editor-in-chief of the Journal of Nursing Management, and her last piece of research was undertaken for the Chief Nursing Officer of Wales. This focused on improving the continuing professional development (CPD) of nurses in Wales. The outcomes of this study is set to influence future plans in Wales.
Earlier this year Melanie was proud to learn that her Swansea College was honoured at the Student Nursing Times Awards as Pre-Registration Nurse Education Provider of the Year. Another pride was her role as adjunct professor of the University of Llorin in Nigeria. The Dean of Nursing from this University attended Melanie’s funeral which took place in Llanelli on May 19th. His journey reflects an international respect for Melanie and her work.
For many years Melanie has been a staunch member of Sigma Theta Tau International and fund raiser for the Swansea Chapter. In memory of her, the chapter are in early talks with the College to set up an award scheme for a CPD student who has made a difference through research and reflection. This was, after all Melanie’s genre.
Melanie leaves her devoted husband and family and many friends who will remember that she too made a difference to care and nurses’ careers.
Dr. Lesley Moore, Emeritus Associate Professor and President of Upsilon Xi Chapter.