Goodbye to a Hero

RIP Dr. Geoff Madoc-Jones, PhD – December 16, 2012

Just heard today that one of my heros passed away yesterday.  His name was Geoff Madoc-Jones.  He was infamous on the Sunshine Coast.  He taught English and English Literature here many years ago.  Some would consider him a trouble-maker.  Others would call him a change-maker.  I would call him a hero.  He pushed the boundaries, questioned authority, and did what he thought was best for students.  Eventually, Geoff became a Faculty Associate at Simon Fraser University, got his PhD, taught at the university, and played an administrative role in the Faculty of Education.  He was a philosopher.  He was passionate about education.  He just GOT IT and had very clear ideals about education.  Geoff’s trademark in education was pissing many people off.  He provoked teachers.  He challenged them.  He changed their practices.  For that, I admired him.  Geoff was an amazing man.  He taught me during my Masters of Education program on the Sunshine Coast in 1999-2001 and during my Doctor of Education program in 2008-2012.  Geoff was also a member of my committee.  He was my biggest cheerleader.  I appreciated his honesty, expertise, and willingness to help you become a better you.  I loved that about Geoff.  He never took any credit for his good-teaching.  As much as he appeared crazy, he was ultimately humble.  I will miss him immensely.  He has been instrumental to my academic endeavours and professional career as a teacher.  It brings me much sadness to hear this news.  RIP Geoff.  Thank you for being a great teacher, mentor, and friend.