Information Studies Research

Following the sad news of Johanna's passing, former students, friends and colleagues share their fond memories of her.

Ruth Fletcher (colleague at the University of Glasgow, The Hunterian) writes:

I knew Johanna as a hugely enthusiastic and dedicated member of the Information Studies team, through various Hunterian collaborations. She was always so generous in her support of students and colleagues alike and will be mourned by so many lucky enough to have been even a small part of her journey.

 

Gabrielle (former IMP student at the University of Glasgow) writes:

Johanna was my MSc dissertation supervisor in 2018.  Johanna's positivity and enthusiasm shone out of her like sunbeams! I will never forget her kindness, knowledge, or brilliant sense of humour.  Sending lots of love to all of Johanna's family and friends at this very sad time xx 

 

Bryony Randall (colleague at the University of Glasgow) writes:

I didn't know Johanna well but worked quite closely with her years ago and she was never anything but a joy: hardworking, collegiate, and above all so much fun. Her scholarly reputation built into something uniquely impressive; I was always amazed by her energy and creativity whenever I heard about her latest innovation - and her dedication to students was clearly second to none. An immense loss - heartfelt condolences to friends and family.  

 

Alison Ray (Former student, University of Oxford) writes:

Johanna was my undergraduate tutor and encouraged me to pursue my studies in the history of the book. I have never forgotten her kindness and enthusiasm in her teaching, and I'm so glad I had the opportunity in 2020 to say thank you before her passing.

 

Shereen (former student) writes:

It was an honor and a privilege to have known Johanna. Her presence was always felt around 11 Uni Gardens throughout my DMIS undergrad and I feel so lucky to have had her as my lecturer as part of the IMP program. Her classes were always a highlight of the week, and her cheer and enthusiasm (along with cameos from Cora!) made the time fly by. I am so happy to have had the chance to study under her guidance, and I miss her dearly.
May she live on in our memories.

 

Eleanor Capaldi (colleague at the University of Glasgow) writes:

I met Johanna through our shared interests in digital heritage. I was immediately struck by her friendliness and openness. When I moved into PhD study and we bumped into each other she would always enquire and offer a listening ear, giving support and encouragement wherever it was needed. She took an interest. When we launched the rainbow lanyards at the University she was immediately keen and when I said I'd pass her a freebie she wanted to know if there was any cause I'd like a donation to go to. When I mentioned an LGBT helpline she gave to them immediately. I was really touched by this as it was unexpected and not necessary, but, knowing what she was like as a person it isn't surprising at all. It is very cruel that she should not get to pursue her passions and spend time with the people she loved for longer. The impact she made was felt by all around her. 

 

David Parkinson (University of Saskatchewan) writes:

By her high reputation in the field and through the students who studied with her. Johanna Green's contributions to book history and digital humanities are profound and will endure. The extraordinary benefits of Dr Green's interactions with students will be no less enduring. May her family, friends and colleagues find an opportunity to celebrate her in experiencing her passing.

 

Alison Wiggins (colleague and friend at the University of Glasgow) writes:

Johanna was a real inspiration. Her research into medieval manuscripts was fresh and exciting, and she had a genuine gift for communicating the joys of working in archives and libraries. I remember, during one of the Covid lockdowns, in an online Zoom panel, Johanna had generously agreed to talk for the College of Arts & Humanities about 'texts as objects' -- her depth of knowledge and unique perspectives captivated all those of us lucky enough to have been there that day to hear her reflections on the experience of working with rare books and why they matter. A fellow traveller in the margins of medieval manuscripts, she has taught us all so much about how to find more and see more on the page. My other memories of Johanna are of her being very funny and witty, in the best way, in a kind and empowering way.

 

Tim Procter (Special Collections & Galleries, University of Leeds)

Knew of her work and met a couple of times at conferences, contact via email I encountered Johanna's work when I joined the HE sector. What she was doing with manuscripts and primary sources to engage students was really inspirational, and we shamelessly cribbed some of her ideas at Leeds! I only met her a couple of times at conferences, but she was generous with her time and very encouraging of what we were trying to do. The sector has lost a talented champion.

 

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First published: 4 August 2023