David Nicholls died suddenly on 13th June, 1996. He was one of the most distinguished priest-scholars in the Church of England’s recent history. David was an outstanding political scientist, with an early interest in political pluralism and espoused ‘socialism from below’. He played a key role in deepening informed Christian analysis, comment and commitment in the social and political arena. He was one of the world authorities on the history and politics of Haiti. His collection of books manifests that crossing of disciplines and subversion of conventional compartmentalising, which was so central to his own life. The Trust was formed because it seemed vital to keep the collection together and up-to-date in a place where it would be accessible to students from this country and from other parts of the world. David’s book collection is now housed in the David Nicholls Memorial Library at Regent’s Park College, Oxford. In addition to the Library, the Trust supports research awards for students and an annual lecture. The Trustees are indebted to the late Dr Gillian Nicholls who established and developed the Trust in loving memory of David:
Homily by Chris Rowland for the funeral of Gill Nicholls, 10 November 2010
“David Nicholls had one of the most original minds of his generation in the Church of England. I am delighted that his legacy is being honored, and lives on through the work of the Trust.“
Patron, Dr Rowan Williams