Published on 22 April 2020
Peter Kay, Head of the School of Social Sciences, said: "Friends, colleagues and students past and present will be devastated to hear of the passing of Professor Pete Rushton.
"Pete worked at the University of Sunderland for 41 years teaching, researching and supporting students and staff in their studies and in their research."
Professor Rushton studied Archaeology and Anthropology at Cambridge before moving to Manchester University for an MA and PhD in Sociology.
His research was interdisciplinary in the field of social and sociologically-informed history.
He supervised many graduate students in the fields of sociology, community and youth work, and history.
Peter Kay added: "Pete’s contribution to teaching and research, as well as his wide ranging knowledge, experience and humour will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
"He has been a highly valued and much appreciated colleague and friend in his time at the University of Sunderland. A fantastic colleague, researcher, teacher and friend."
Professor Lynne McKenna, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Society, said: "Sadly I only knew Pete for the five years I have been at Sunderland, but his calm, supportive and very clever and sensible approach to all manner of things was wonderful. He will be a massive miss."
We know that many staff, students and graduates will have fond memories of Professor Rushton. If you would like to share these or any message of condolence please send them to usonline@sunderland.ac.uk with "Professor Peter Rushton" in the subject header.