Mel was kind, wise and patient. Our paths crossed when she agreed to act as expert commentator for one of my PhD students who was determined to carry on despite the sudden death of her father back home in Nigeria. Mel was endlessly patient with the rearranged dates, then supportive, intellectually challenging and respectful of the student's knowledge and insight. She made the viva such a positive and encouraging event to launch the next stage. I really admired the way she pitched the interaction perfectly .... we will all miss her so much. Jan