Scholarship named in honour of Aberdeen business leader to support young people

Through her leadership at Central Coaches and her passionate support of charities like the Denis Law Legacy Trust, Lynne opened doors for countless young people. She believed every child deserved a chance regardless of background and worked tirelessly to make that belief a reality. Lynne was a cherished friend, a proud honorary graduate of RGU, and a deeply loved figure in the community who sadly passed away in June 2025.

The Lynne Smith Memorial Scholarship is a fund that will support young people in financial need to access higher education and build brighter futures, with the first student to benefit from the scholarship to start in September 2026.

In a statement, Lynne’s family said: “Our mum would be honoured to have such a generous scholarship named after her, though inside, she would never have felt good enough to have been the recipient of this honour. The same way she felt about her honorary degree from RGU in 2023. To her children and close friends, however, it is a fitting tribute for someone who was so generous in life herself. We are so proud of the impression she made on the world and would like to thank RGU and Denis Law Legacy Trust for helping memorialise her in such a beautiful way.”

Lynn Kilbride, Deputy Vice Chancellor, RGU said: “Lynne touched and transformed countless lives with kindness and determination. By supporting this scholarship, we honour her legacy - ensuring that, even in her absence, she continues to open doors for students who need a chance to thrive and shape brighter futures.”

RGU has a proud history in widening access to higher education and the Lynne Smith Memorial Scholarship will become a vital part of this mission, supporting young people from underrepresented backgrounds to reach university and succeed.

RGU’s leading access initiatives reach over 2,000 pupils across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire each year. From early engagement in primary schools, subject focused experiences for senior pupils, to access scholarships, our interventions build confidence, ambition, and readiness for university.

The Lynne Smith Access Scholarship will remove financial barriers and offer tailored support - reflecting Lynne’s belief that every young person deserves a chance. It will help young people access university, thrive during their studies, and step confidently into their future.

Open to Scottish or UK students facing financial hardship or disadvantage, whether due to low income, care experience, refugee status, or being first in their family to attend university.

For more information, contact Cara Baird, Head of Fundraising and Alumni Engagement, on c.baird1@rgu.ac.uk