Gospels exhibit draws nearer
Also in this issue: Meet Mahshid, our first Muslim Chaplain
Peace Prize for Durham Youth Ambassadors
Find out about the exciting outreach programme taking place as part of the Lindisfarne Gospels Durham exhibition.
An historic appointment to oversee the pastoral needs of our growing Islamic student community.
Students recognised at National Peace Awards for contribution to peace in Northern Ireland.
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Dialogue 28 | March / April 2013
/durhamuniversity
@Durham_Uni
DurhamUniversity
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While parts of our University undertake research which competes with the best in the world, we still have some way to go in terms of overall quantity, reputation and impact across the piece. The University’s strategy is to continually focus our research investment into areas of strength where we can foster sustainable communities of established and early career researchers, working together to compete for the largest national and international grants, form partnerships with global companies, impact on national and international policy, and become home to fellows and research students from around the world. As a result of this strategy, Durham is fast becoming an exemplar of multi- and inter-disciplinary research. Our University Research Institutes and Centres are a critical part of our strategy and are being underpinned by many of our recent academic appointments. The Durham Energy Institute (DEI), featured in this issue, is an exemplar, having brought in substantial research income, enhanced business partnerships and investment and raised our policy profile led by Dr Wilf Wilde and Richard Davies. Many of our Institutes are finding ‘second homes’ in our Colleges as the latter become increasingly research-oriented, with a particular focus on postgraduate research students. As our Institutes and Centres become more and more a focus of University research investment and priorities, backed up by professional support, everyone is encouraged to engage with their role in delivering a coherent and successful research strategy and funding support for the University. With best wishes,
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EDITOR:
03 Winter Congregation
15 CIS news
04 Faith
16 Experience Durham
06 Research highlights
17 The Second Chance Debating Project
08 News highlights 10 Spotlight on...
Durham Energy Institute
12 Governance 13 Event Durham,
Retail and Catering
14 HR news
Social Media
18 Talking Pictures 19 Greenspace 20 Under investigation
What’s On
Rebecca Grundy, Corporate Communications Officer.
ASSISTANT EDITOR: Zoë Thomas, Marketing Projects Co-ordinator.
CONTRIBUTIONS: Sharon Battersby, Computing and Information Services; Malcolm Murray, Computing and Information Services; Tara Duncan, Greenspace; Louise Elliot, Event Durham; Media Relations Team, Communications Office; Caroline Hall, HR; Vicky Ridley; Experience Durham; Katie Binks, Experience Durham; Pauline Holt, Communications Office; Evelyn Tehrani, Durham Energy Institute; Dr Sarah Price, Museums; Lauren Sloan, Josephine Butler College.
DESIGN: wearewarm.com PRINT: statex.co.uk
C hris Higgins, Vice-Chancellor and Warden
FRONT COVER: The Lindisfarne Gospels Outreach Programme.
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News
WINTER CONGREGATION 2013 As part of Winter Congregation students graduated in Durham Cathedral and the University honoured four successful national and international figures in equal opportunities and human rights, sociology, music and natural burials.
Baroness Valerie Amos
Graham Johnson OBE
Baroness Amos is the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. She was nominated by Professor Lena Dominelli for her contribution to the development of cohesive societies, championing human rights and social justice for women and minority ethnic groups internationally. On being awarded an honorary Doctor of Civil Law, she said: “It is a great privilege to be honoured by a university with a long and proud history where there is a strong commitment to the principles of social justice.”
Musician Graham Johnson OBE was nominated by our Chancellor, Sir Thomas Allen and received an honorary Doctor of Music as part of Winter Congregation. He has performed as a pianist and accompanist with the world’s foremost vocalists to critical acclaim.
Ken West MBE
Professor Huw Beynon
Ken West is the pioneer of natural burials whom established the world’s first ‘green’ burial service in 1993 and has helped to shape social policy across the globe including North America, Australia and New Zealand. He was nominated by Professor Douglas Davies and other members of Theology and Religion, Anthropology and School of Medicine. On receiving his honorary Master of Arts, he said “I remain forever indebted to those people in the North, who gave me support when natural burial was in its infancy in Cumbria. Without these passionate advocates, I would not be in this fortunate position.”
Mr Johnson also has a longstanding artistic relationship with the Wigmore Hall, and is a Senior Professor of Accompaniment at the Guildhall School of Music. He said, “I can think of no better centre of learning with which to be to be associated than Durham.”
Professor Huw Beynon is a distinguished industrial sociologist of international repute. He joined the University in 1977 and spent the next ten years here. It was a momentous period in the political economy of the UK and he researched the mining trade unions and communities, which led to his involvement in contesting the Government’s policy of pit closures. He said, “It is very significant for me that the University has recognised the importance of academics working closely with local people and communities, particularly during these times of great upheavals and change.”
IMAGES (clockwise from left):
Winter Congregation, Ken West MBE, Professor Chris Higgins & Baroness Valerie Amos; Graham Johnson OBE; Professor Chris Higgins, Professor Huw Beynon & Professor Ray Hudson.
Behind the scenes... Take a look at the Winter Congregation photo album: /durhamuniversity
Have you seen the new research microsite? Share the link with others who might be interested in Durham research or sign up to receive future email updates to the site: email: durham.breakthrough@durham.ac.uk. Visit http://breakthrough.durham.ac.uk
Faith provision
This term has seen the appointment of the University’s first female Muslim chaplain – Mahshid Turner. Sam Dale, Revd Dr Paul Regan and the Chaplaincy and Faith Steering Group as part of Durham’s As the student body becomes increasingly diverse as a consequence, in particular, of our internationalisation strategy, there is a growing need to support students from different faith backgrounds. There is already huge value for the provision that already exists across the colleges and our key aim is very much to diversify, not replace existing support. Mahshid, is a mature, student who is undertaking the chaplain post on a voluntary basis. Although there is no formal course available for a female to train as a chaplain with the Muslim faith, Mahshid has an academic interest in religion and learning and is currently engaging in studies at a theological level.
Despite there being no formal accreditation, Mahshid has the full support of Durham University Islamic Society, one of our largest societies.
Mahshid is based at St Aidan’s College who have done a great deal of work on interfaith relations in recent years. Thanks to the generosity of Hillel, the College founded a small kosher kitchen in 2007, enabling them to host the University’s Jewish Society for the Friday Shabba’t and other celebrations. They also support a growing range of activities in Jewish Studies through their College Jewish Studies Fellow and funding for small research projects and conferences. College Principal, Dr Susan Frenk, said: “Aidan’s is delighted to be hosting Islamic chaplaincy, offered by Mahshid Turner for the whole university community. Mahshid will also participate in our Dialogue Forum, which brings together people of all faiths, secular and humanist, across the University and the regional communities, to explore
spirituality and community in human cultures through music, dance, panels and workshops around shared themes. Past events have embraced classical Hindu dance, Persian music and poetry, Buddhism around the world, Women in Faith, Anglican sacred music, anti-racists initiatives in multi-ethnic communities, and promoting diversity in UK policing.” Also joining the chaplains team this term are Revd Dr Hannah Cleugh and Revd Andy Byers, at University College and St Mary’s respectively, and a new University Roman Catholic Chaplain, Fr Ben Earl. Throughout the University there is an active commitment to different faiths among both the student and staff bodies and the Chaplaincy and Faith Steering Group is working to enhance both the provision and awareness of faith support available.
The decision to appoint to this position was also fully endorsed by all of the chaplains across the University. Speaking on behalf of this group, Revd Dr Paul Regan (chaplain at Trevelyan and Van Mildert) said, “We warmly welcome the appointment of Mahshid Turner as female Muslim chaplain for the University. For many years the chaplains have called for the appointment of a Muslim chaplain to serve the pastoral needs of Muslim students so this news is a very welcome development. Mahshid brings a lot of experience from other sectors to this new role and we look forward to working with her on a range of issues.” IMAGE: Mahshid Turner and Susan Frenk, Principal of St Aidan’s College.
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This has been made possible through the work of Deputy Academic Registrar, commitment to diversify our chaplaincy and faith provision. Mahshid Turner answers a few questions on her new role... 1. How does it feel to have been appointed to the role of Muslim chaplain?
I have been waiting for this opportunity for a long time and I am very happy to start my role as Muslim chaplain for Durham University. 2. What will this voluntary role entail?
Although I will be based in St Aidan’s College, I will have a pan-University role working with staff and students across the institution. My main role will be to support individual spirituality; to promote ‘religious intelligence’ including understanding among faiths; to sign-post and provide faith-specific support and to contribute to student welfare. 3. How important is it for the University to have created this role?
Chaplains have a really important role to play with regard to the welfare of students. There is the tendency to underestimate the impact of the spiritual on academic work. Pastoral care empowers individuals to achieve their potential. Also previously there was a vacuum with regard to a Muslim representative for this role. 4. What is your background? Why did you choose to come to the University?
I have lived in Durham for over 30 years. I love this city and I can now call it ‘home’. I was trained as a social worker in Mental Health but have worked mainly in the community in the caring field. I have also done a lot of voluntary work in the community. My most recent role has been the Vice-President of the Islamic Society.
5. What are your academic interests?
I am a part-time student in the Department of Theology and Religion, and my PhD focuses on the interplay between spirituality and mental health. 6. What does Durham University Islamic Society do and why is it important?
Durham Islamic Society has a huge role to play with regard to supporting students’ social and welfare concerns as well as religious/spiritual needs. Many students decide to come to here after contacting the Islamic Society to ensure that there is support for them. They ask questions regarding issues such as prayer facilities, the provision of halal meat and so on. 7. How do you find life at St Aidan’s College?
I am only just starting my new role as chaplain so have not had the chance to get too involved at present but I am hoping to get to know everyone and have more involvement in college life.
Find out more...
visit www.durham.ac.uk/ undergraduate/life/ welfare/religion
Research highlights
When tea drinkers were viewed as irresponsible as whisky drinkers New research has unearthed that poor women who drank tea were viewed as irresponsible as whisky drinkers in early 19th Century Ireland. Critics at the time declared that the practice of tea drinking – viewed as a harmless pastime in most past and present societies – was contributing to the stifling of Ireland’s economic growth, and was clearly presented as reckless and uncontrollable. It was said women who drank tea wasted their time and money, drawing them away from their duty to care for their husbands and home. It was felt this traditionally female responsibility was vital to progressing the national economy. Reformers singled out tea drinking amongst peasant women as a practice which needed to be stamped out to improve the Irish economy and society.
Pamphlets published in England at the time suggest that the concerns about tea drinking were also felt widely outside Ireland. Some believed it threatened the wholesome diet of British peasants and symbolised damage to the social order and hierarchies. Author Dr Helen O’Connell, Lecturer in English Studies, who analysed pamphlets and literature from that time, said: “Peasant women were condemned for putting their feet up with a cup of tea when they should be getting a hearty evening meal ready for their hard-working husbands.” Pamphlets the reformers distributed to peasant households lambasted tea drinking as a luxury poor women could not afford and which could even cause addiction, illicit longing and revolutionary sympathies.
It was also said that tea drinking could even be akin to being a member of a secret society, a belief which heightened political anxieties at a time of counter revolution within the Union of Britain and Ireland. Dr Helen O’Connell said: “The prospect of poor peasant women squandering already scarce resources on fashionable commodities such as tea was a worry but it also implied that drinking tea could even express a form of revolutionary feminism for these women.” OVERAGE INCLUDES: C BBC Radio 4 Today Programme, BBC World Service, The Guardian, The Sentinal (India), MX (Australia), EPN Newswire and national press throughout Europe.
Poor mentoring can be worse than no mentoring for vulnerable young people. That’s one of the insights for teachers provided by the Sutton Trust-Education Endowment Foundation Teaching and Learning Toolkit developed by a team of Durham University academics. The updated toolkit has been revamped and shows how schools can best use their resources to provide the biggest possible increases in pupils’ learning. Thousands of schools have already been introduced to the research-led approach as a way of using the £623 per pupil they receive for each disadvantaged youngster on their roll through the Pupil Premium. The Premium is set to rise to £900 next year, and is likely in to increase again in 2014-15. On mentoring, the Toolkit collates research from both sides of the Atlantic to show the importance of having mentors whom young people can trust – perhaps successful people from a similar background – who have been given training and support. The Toolkit says: “The impact of mentoring is variable, but on average it has tended to be low in terms of direct effect on academic outcomes. There is some evidence that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds are likely to benefit more (nearly double the impact). Other positive benefits have been reported in terms of attitudes to school, attendance and behavior.”
“However, there are also risks associated with unsuccessful mentor pairings which may have a detrimental effect on the mentee, and the negative overall impacts seen in some studies should prompt caution.” Programmes where mentors drop out soon after establishing contact with a young person can damage the student’s chances Sir Peter Lampl, Chair of the Education Endowment Foundation and of the Sutton Trust: “Too often English education has been bedevilled by initiatives without evidence. The Toolkit helps teachers make the most of their resources to have the maximum impact on student results. It provides cautionary tales about the importance of getting programmes like mentoring right and positive suggestions on which strategies do most to boost attainment.” Kevan Collins, Chief Executive of the Education Endowment Foundation, added: “Educational improvement is about applying the knowledge we have and committing to learning more. The new Toolkit helps teachers and school leaders by providing clear information about a wide variety of potential
strategies to improve learning. At a time when Ofsted and the Government are holding schools more accountable for the Pupil Premium, it will also help schools to ensure that they are making the most of their funding at a time of scarce public resources.” OVERAGE INCLUDES: C Sunday Times, The Times.
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IMAGE Pavo cristatus (Indian Peafowl) Male head_1003 © Andy Gill Swash.
Birds may need a hand to weather climate change A new study led by Durham University and BirdLife International, shows that many bird species are likely to suffer under future climate change, and will require enhanced protection of important sites, better management of the wider countryside, and in some of the most extreme cases may need to be physically moved to climatically suitable areas to help them survive.
The research examined the potential future distributions of suitable climate within conservation sites for 370 Asian bird species of conservation concern across the Eastern Himalaya and Lower Mekong regions. The findings demonstrate how climate change could affect birdlife and conservation policy across the globe. The researchers say that adapting the way that conservation sites are managed, and facilitating the movement of species to suitable areas will be critical to future conservation. Projections show that at least 45% and possibly up to 88% of the 370 species studied will experience declines in suitable climate, leading to changing species composition at individual sites. Co-lead author, Dr Stephen Willis, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, said: “As climate changes, we may have to assist birds to move to more suitable locations to help them survive. Although many birds will adjust their distributions, and will find new habitats with suitable climate, we need to manage the countryside to help them disperse, or even relocate birds in the most extreme cases. “We expect there to be 24 times as many ‘losers’ as ‘winners’ in terms of bird species losing or gaining habitat in the future.” Co-author, Dr Stuart Butchart, Head of Science at BirdLife International, said: “We need to adapt our conservation management. The good news, however, is that protecting natural habitats benefits people too, helping communities to adapt to climate change. Healthy ecosystems enhance resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change and reduce the vulnerability of people.” The study draws upon the work of thousands of experts and organisations, in particular the Partners that form BirdLife International, who contributed to defining species of conservation concern (through the IUCN Red List), mapping their distributions, and identifying Important Bird Areas. The work was funded by a MacArthur Foundation grant to BirdLife International and Dr Willis at Durham University. COVERAGE INCLUDES: Science Daily, Times of India, national publications throughout Asia, Africa and India.
Find out more... see other stories at www.durham.ac.uk/ news/research
News highlights
After many months of planning, the opening of the Lindisfarne Gospels Durham exhibition at Palace Green Library on Monday 1st July is drawing near. Construction work has already begun on this eagerly anticipated exhibition which focuses on the making of one of the most remarkable Anglo-Saxon manuscripts and the incredible journey it has taken since its creation 1,300 years ago. The Outreach Programme As one might expect from a university, encouraging people of all ages to learn about this amazing book has always been a high priority. The Learning Team at Durham University Library and Heritage Collections have developed an outreach programme for schools from across the North East that focuses on the making and meaning of this most beautiful and important of Northumbrian Gospel books. The take-up has been phenomenal. Since September 2012 the Team have already worked with over 7,000 children of all ages, with bookings being taken all the way through until the opening of the exhibition.
What does it involve? During a typical session the children learn about life as a monk working in a scriptorium, discover what the Gospels were written on (not zebra as many children believe!) and how Eadfrith, the artist-scribe, created his own inks. The smell of ink made from woad is not to be forgotten! There are also opportunities to write with a quill and to try their hand at creating a piece of Celtic art. Older children learn about Anglo-Saxon iconography and the hidden meanings of the beautiful illustrations. Feedback from the schools has been overwhelmingly positive. One teacher from St Lawrence’s RC Primary School in Byker wrote “A big thank you to your team for the work they have done today at St Lawrence’s. The children were fascinated and enjoyed every aspect of the work. They are buzzing with questions and want to find out more, which from a teacher’s point of view is brilliant.”
What next? Now that the schools programme is up and running, the team are turning their attention to other areas – running a project to support other museums in the North East to deliver workshops related to the Gospels exhibition, and working with a group of our own students to deliver an exciting engagement programme with events taking place on every day that the exhibition is open. Lindisfarne Gospels Durham is presented on the UNESCO World Heritage Site by Durham University, Durham Cathedral and Durham County Council in partnership with the British Library.
Tickets for the Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition are now on sale. Visit www.lindisfarnegospels.com/tickets to purchase yours! For more information or to sign up to the e-newsletter visit: www.lindisfarnegospels.com
@gospelsdurham
/LindisfarneGospelsDurham
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Peace Prize FOR Durham Youth Ambassadors In January, Durham Youth Ambassadors, Lauren Sloan and Enya Doyle received the first ever national peace prizes in recognition for their contribution to peace in Northern Ireland.
Lauren shares her experience of the divide in Northern Ireland and what motivated her to become involved in bringing peace to her country: My generation are still all too aware of the divide within our country. We can distinguish a Catholic child from a Protestant simply by their area, school, or the way they pronounce certain letters of the alphabet. Like many young people all over the country, I no longer care about the sectarian differences of previous generations. For me, the peace dividend, which promised prosperity at the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, is working, and I couldn’t imagine anyone who would prefer the dangerous days of the past. When Stephen Carroll was murdered, I knew so much more still had to be done. Steve was a police officer from my town,
who was murdered by dissident republicans whilst on duty. He was the first PSNI officer killed since the Good Friday Agreement, over 10 years before.
or me it hit home. There was F worry up and down the country that this signalled return to the days of conflict and divide. Enya and I went to school together, and when she came to me with the idea of using music to send out a message of opposition to the violence, I got on board. We soon set up a group of about 15 musicians from our area who played traditional music, both from the Irish tradition and Ulster Scots, and played at
several cross community events to raise our profile. Steve’s widow Kate would often come along to support us and soon expressed an interest to set up her own Foundation to help young people escape a life of sectarian violence and choose the right path. Enya and I became youth ambassadors for the Steve Carroll Foundation, and helped raise funds and awareness for Kate’s cause. On the 15th of January, the Foundation was finally launched, with Enya and I receiving some of the first peace prizes from what will be the foundation’s annual event. For us, it was an honour to receive any award, but more importantly it was a night to be proud of Northern Ireland. At the event there was representation from so many sectors of our society, from education, to politics and the security forces. It showed the change in Northern Ireland, as people united, not against each other, but in favour of peace and democracy, over and above any lawless individuals. The Foundation is gaining support, and has big plans for the future. Kate is setting up ‘peace societies’ in schools and launching a campaign at universities, starting at Durham. Enya and I are also trying to do our bit, running the Facebook and Twitter campaigns, and are hoping to launch a ‘Beacon of Hope’ webpage where people can post photos, videos or inspirational stories of just how far Northern Ireland has come, how proud we are of the developments we, as a country have made, and how important it is for us to never go back. IMAGE (left): Enya Doyle, Kate Caroll and Lauren Sloan.
Find out more...
@scf
/pages/Steve-CarrollFoundation/453262248019104
Spotlight on...
D U R H A M E N E RG Y I N S T I T U T E
The Durham Energy Institute (DEI) supports and produces cutting-edge research that tackles the so Based in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Health, it draws on the expertise of world-leading researchers in six science departments and six social science departments across the University. The Institute aims to unlock research synergies existing between different disciplines, producing major breakthroughs in our understanding of how to best meet the energy demands of the future. DEI was created in 2009 from recognition that energy challenges transcend conventional disciplinary boundaries and an ambition to use new perspectives in thinking about, conducting and implementing cross-industry energy research. DEI has now grown into an internationally leading institution, recognised for its ability to apply new methods and perspectives to existing and emerging energy challenges.
Its unique ‘Science and Society’ approach has led to world-leading research on key energy areas such as smart grids and networks, shale fracturing, carbon capture and storage, smart cities, low carbon transitions, energy risk and resilience, and energy for development. Now firmly established as a world top 50 research institute, the DEI has grown to include a membership of up to 107 researchers across 12 different departments within Durham and, over the last 10 years has attracted over £48 million in research funding including two externally funded Chairs in Renewable Energy and Low Carbon Cities. Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) Within the DEI, the CDT in Energy was established in 2009 and now enables 38 very bright and creative students to undertake interdisciplinary work in energy
as well as supporting the research of their mentors. The students are encouraged to be aspirational in their research and interact regularly with other CDTs around the country. They provide a fresh and lively approach to the research and its promotion. More of their work can be found here: www.durham.ac.uk/dei/cdt Interdisciplinary Energy Research Industry interest in Durham’s interdisciplinary energy research has also grown rapidly over the past three years, leading not only to increased funding but also a call from industry practitioners to provide support in broadening their understanding of the wider societal issues. In response to this call, an exciting, new MSc in Energy and Society will be launched this month, hosted by the Department of Anthropology, and we look forward to welcoming the first cohort of students in September.
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ocietal aspects of energy technology through a unique interdisciplinary approach. Further details can be found here: www.durham.ac.uk/dei/mscenergy andsociety Smart Grid Lab The use of Durham’s specialist Smart Grid Lab has also developed rapidly over the past three years and it now hosts a low voltage network with a wide range of low carbon technologies, enabling the modelling of network behaviour in real time. The establishment of this lab has been responsible for attracting over £5 million in research funding to the University and interest from industry continues to grow. You will often see Durham’s electric vehicle plugged into the lab as the researchers test the impact of both charging the battery and using it for storage within the mini-network.
DEI’s vision Led by Dr Wilf Wilde and Professor Richard Davies, from the Department of Earth Sciences, with Deputy Directors, Professors Harriet Bulkeley and Simon Marvin from the Department of Geography, Dr Sandra Bell from the Department of Anthropology and Professor Phil Taylor from the School of Engineering and Computing Science, DEI has kept at its heart the desire to embrace interdisciplinarity in all its shapes and colours and to ensure opportunity, profile and support for early career researchers.
Find out more... visit www.durham.ac.uk/dei or email dei.admin@ durham.ac.uk
That continuing vision is what drives DEI today and has enabled it to achieve the recognition and reputation that it currently enjoys. Want to get involved? The DEI offer a small grants scheme to provide seedcorn support for any researchers within the University interested in exploring current energy issues in all areas of the industry and across the globe. We are very proud of our record of supporting the development of ideas, many of which have gone on to attract large grants from industry and government. We aim to support more of the University’s research in reaching a wider audience. If you are interested in finding out more about the DEI or applying for a grant, please contact us on dei.admin@durham.ac.uk
IMAGES From left to right: DEI’s electric vehicle; Key staff from within the Durham Energy Institute: Top row, Dr Wilf Wilde and Professor Richard Davies. Middle row, Professor Phil Taylor and Professor Simon Marvin. Bottom row, Professor Harriet Bulkeley and Dr Sandra Bell.
Dialogue 28 | March / April 2013
What’s so interesting about... “The Governance review may be the opportunity of a generation” that’s how the new University Secretary, Peter Judge, describes the Council led review of University Governance which began earlier this year.
Now is your opportunity to contribute to this import review by visiting the Governance Review project webpages at www.dur.ac.uk/governance.review and completing the online questionnaire. Governance is the framework by which an organisation is directed and controlled. It is the framework in which decisions are made and overseen. It is important because it supports and underpins the University’s varied activities. The University is already performing strongly; it is at the top of the league tables with ambitions to climb higher, particularly in international standing. Working closely with University’s academic governing body, the Senate, and with the full support of the ViceChancellor and his executive committee, UEC, Council has begun this wideranging review. The University already has thorough and established governance systems but its last whole review was conducted in the 1980s. Council sees a competitive advantage in refining the current structures, recognising that the external environment in which the University operates is changing fast. The review is led by a small project board made of some lay council members, academic members, the Vice-Chancellor, the Student’s Union President and two nominees from
Senate. Council Deputy Chair, Andrew Mitchell, chairs the board. Where possible the project will draw upon talent in the University to create a bespoke set of solutions fit for our excellent and globally ambitious University. Our new University Secretary, Peter Judge, is acting as project manager and is supported by a small team from across the University. The first open stage of the project is designed to gather evidence of experiences of governance from around the University and to seek suggestions for improvements. The “Request for Views and Feedback’ process was launched at the start of March and will run to the end of March.
PARTICIPATE NOW It may be another 30 years before we conduct such a wide-ranging review again so don’t miss your chance to become involved. Find out more at www. dur.ac.uk/governance.review
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Event Durham, Retail & Catering
Team Member Recognition Awards 2013 University Catering, Event Durham and the Retail Office held the second annual Team Member Recognition Awards on Friday 11th January at St Mary’s College. The Recognition Awards are designed to recognise those individuals and teams that have made an outstanding contribution. The awards were hosted by Gary and Lisa from the Real Radio Breakfast Show, who presented all shortlisted finalists with certificates and the overall winners with an award.
Going that extra mile WINNER Kevin Scott and the YUM driving team (Retail Catering) This award is for those who are impressively passionate about what they do, who they work for and the people they work with. L-R: Andrew Gillett, Andrew Morris, Kevin Scott, Kenny Jackson, Dave Tillson.
Attention to detail award WINNER Mel Phillip (Grey College Catering) Those shortlisted show exceptional dedication to ensuring that every student, colleague and client receives excellent service, by paying excellent attention to detail. L-R: Gary Phillipson (Real Radio), Mel Phillip, Diane Walker, Louise Bellenger, Lisa Shaw (Real Radio).
Best team WINNER Retail Team Great teams have clearly defined roles, strong leadership skills and work together to achieve excellent service. L-R: Gary Phillipson (Real Radio), Amy Wilkinson, Pia Neave, Debra Griffiths, Lisa Shaw (Real Radio).
Amy Wilkinson, Retail Manager said: “This event gave us the opportunity to officially recognise and thank individuals and teams within our departments. The event was a great success with over 200 team members attending; we are already looking forward to next year!” All awards are outlined below and congratulations go to the following people and teams:
Other awards given: Outstanding contribution to a team WINNER Margaret Youll (St Mary’s College Catering)
Newcomer of the year WINNER Craig Hoye (Palatine Restaurant and Café)
Up-seller of the year WINNER Daryl Dowding (Event Durham)
Behind the scenes award WINNER Rachel Harding (Retail Catering)
Best customer service WINNER Collingwood Front of House Catering Team
Environmental champion WINNER Grey College Front of House Catering Team
Best leader WINNER Glen Heslop (Queen’s Campus Catering)
Special recognition WINNER
For more information please contact: Louise Elliott, Ext. 42883 or louise.elliott@durham.ac.uk
Stina Maynard (Event Durham)
HR news...
AUTOMATIC ENROLMENT – ARE YOU IN? From April 2013, eligible members of staff who are not already in a University pension scheme will be automatically enrolled into a new, workplace pension scheme administered on behalf of Durham University by NOW: Pensions or the Career Re-valued Benefits section of USS for contracted staff grade 6 or above.
• E arn more than £9,444 per year or £787 per month (from 1st April 2013)
The government has introduced legislation which aims to help more people to save for their retirement. It means that all employers must provide a low cost, workplace pension; make a contribution into it on behalf of their workers; and automatically enrol workers so that they pay a contribution through their salary.
Join DUPS or USS?
If you are already in a workplace pension scheme (DUPS, USS or NHS) you won’t see any change and your existing workplace pension scheme will carry on as normal.
What next?
Are you eligible for Automatic Enrolment? You will be enrolled into the new, low cost workplace pension if you are: • n ot already in a qualifying pension scheme (for Durham University staff these are USS, DUPS or NHS) • aged 22 or over • u nder the state pension age (currently 65)
• work or usually work in the UK. For staff in Grades 6 or above, automatic enrolment will be into USS.
If you have not already joined DUPS or USS, this option may still be open to you – just contact the University’s Pensions Team on ext. 46951 or ext. 46888 by Monday 15th April 2013.
An excellent benefit – saving for your future Remember, membership of one of the pensions supported by Durham University is an excellent benefit of working for Durham. Both you and the University pay into your pension; you may also receive tax relief from the Government on your contributions. You will receive the benefits of your pension on your retirement. Find out more about pensions+: www.durham.ac.uk/hr/benefitsplus/ pensionsplus
If you are not a member of DUPS, USS or NHS and are eligible for automatic enrolment (see above); you should have already received a letter about Automatic Enrolment to your home address. In April, you will be assessed for eligibility against the above criteria and if you are eligible, you will automatically be enrolled into NOW: Pensions or USS. The first deduction will be made from your April salary and Durham University will also contribute towards your workplace pension. If you have any questions, please contact the University Pensions Team.
Need help? Contact a member of the University’s Pension Team: Richard Walters r.a.walters@durham.ac.uk ext. 46951
Dean Lloyd d.m.lloyd@durham.ac.uk ext. 46888 Contact details for NOW: Pensions will be available from April 2013.
Read our FAQs about pensions and automatic enrolment at: www.durham. ac.uk/hr/local/policies/condemp/pensions/ automaticenrolment/faqs
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CIS news...
Welcome to our new Chief Information Officer – Dr Carolyn Brown
Following the retirement of the Director of University IT, Lesley Beddie, December saw the University’s new Chief Information Officer, Dr Carolyn Brown take up the reins in CIS. Carolyn started her career in academia following a PhD in Mathematical Modelling from Edinburgh. She worked as a post doc worldwide, going on to become a Lecturer in Computer Science at the University of Sussex and a visiting Professor at Stanford University. She later held a series of successful industry roles, including European Business Systems Director at Mercer, IT Operations Director at Inter Ikea Systems, Interim CIO at the Christie NHS Foundation Trust and most recently, Group CIO at Travis Perkins. Carolyn has hit the ground running and is already making her mark in CIS, bringing expertise from both the academic and commercial worlds along with bags of energy and enthusiasm. Carolyn said:
“I’m really happy to be part of Durham University. There is a lot to do to make CIS the effective partner the University expects, but there is great talent and enthusiasm in the CIS team. We’re already starting to shape our vision and prepare pragmatic delivery plans for the future. We’re moving fast, but there is a lot to do. The next couple of years will be full of hard work, creative thinking and collaboration as we join the journey to make Durham be the best it can – it’s a great place to be CIO.”
CIS – Blackboard annual event On 8th & 9th January CIS hosted the 13th Annual Durham Blackboard Users’ Conference, the second longest running Blackboard users’ conference in the world. 131 delegates from the UK, Ireland, Europe and North America joined us to discuss the future of Technology Enhanced Learning. During the conference Greg Ritter, Blackboard’s Director of Product Management praised the University’s leading role in the user community. He also provided a preview of social learning tools and services for collaborative content creation and sharing which we hope to deploy in duo this summer.
We ran a number of sessions which explored a range of topics including why learning technologies have failed to deliver economies of scale, the challenges and paradoxes of massive open online courses (MOOCs), mobile learning, content sharing and the skills needed to teach in the 21st Century. The conference continued in the twittersphere through the use of #durbbu. On day two, the top 22 conference tweets generated over 28,000 impressions, reaching an audience of over 17,000 within 24 hours. On departure, delegates praised the quality of the facilities, and the friendliness of staff at both the Calman Learning Centre and Durham Castle, promising to return next year.
Find out more about the conference visit www.durham.ac.uk/ it.team/conference
Experience Durham...
E p i p hany term Epiphany Term was packed with student-led activities, with successes spanning student sport, music, theatre and volunteering.
Find out more... Theatre and Music
SPORT
Durham University Light Opera Group (DULOG) kick-started a show-stopping Epiphany term with their annual stint at the Gala Theatre. Fame! proved to be an electrifying show, superbly directed, choreographed and performed.
At the time of writing, a record 15 sports had made it through to the Quarter Finals of the BUCS National Championships and for much of the Epiphany term the Palatinates held on to the number two spot in the BUCS points table, a position that we hope to retain!
The award-winning Durham Revue hosted a one-night only sketch-comedy event, also at the Gala, with the internationally-renowned Cambridge Footlights and the equally illustrious Oxford Revue.
We have had another year when some ‘new’ sports have begun to shine. Waterpolo found themselves in the BUCS Championship semi-finals, while men’s football has every chance of gaining promotion to the Premier League. Women’s Rugby have also continued to improve at pace. At the time of writing they had an outside chance of being at Twickenham in March, but regardless of where they end up, the club have had a fantastic season.
The Durham Drama Festival returned for its 38th year offering opportunities for all students and alumni to showcase their creative flair in writing, directing and performing. The week concluded with the annual D’Oliviers award ceremony. Music societies have had a busy term too, with many ensembles appearing at a special concert at The Sage Gateshead. Looking ahead, the jewel in the musical crown of 2013 will take place on 1st June, when the University Chancellor and world renowned opera star, Sir Thomas Allen, will perform alongside the University Chamber Choir and Durham University Symphony Orchestra in Durham Cathedral. Look out for booking details as this promises to be an event not to be missed!
Our men’s Wildcats basketball team continues to develop fast in the British Basketball League. In just their second season in Britain’s elite league the team are sat in the play-off positions, a far cry from last season when the team ended up bottom on just six points. Away from competition we were delighted to receive England Lacrosse High Performance status in December 2012. We are the first university to receive the prestigious accolade and it is just reward for the hard work that our coaches and players have put in over recent years. Finally, a reminder that our facilities at both campuses are open to all, so do take a look at our fitness class programmes. For more information visit www.teamdurham.com
Visit: www.durham.ac.uk/ experiencedurham
Volunteering and Outreach Student Community Action marked national Student Volunteering Week with a range of events and activities. These included helping to clear the woodlands and riverbanks around Durham Cathedral, tree planting at Old Durham Gardens and hosting a tea party to bring generations together at Hatfield College. Staff volunteers have been very active too and there are always opportunities for individuals or groups of staff to get involved with local community organisations. Supported by:
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THE SECOND CHANCE DEBATING PROJECT This project started in 2007 with a unique partnership between Team Durham, Durham Union Society and The Cyrenians. The Cyrenians is an organisation that works with vulnerable, disadvantaged and homeless people offering support, interventions and training.
The student feedback has also been increasingly positive; many declaring that being involved in the project has been the best part of their
The results of the follow up interviews with the participants were mixed with some participants continuing on the road to recovery and others having a relapse. However, the outcome showed that regardless of background, a common ground can always be established and building bridges between the community and the University can only be a good thing.
Top 5 Tweets • D r Andrew Russell & Dr Susan Lewis explain why people in the #north of #England tend to #smoke more http://ow.ly/hOKf4 via @ guardian • Catholic theologian reacts to the Pope’s resignation: Professor Paul D. Murray http:// bit.ly/WmizfJ • How big is the #universe compared with a grain of sand? Watch this video
with Dr Pete Edwards to find out http://ow.ly/ hDxKt • Fiona Measham interviewed by The Economist about the significance of ‘legal highs’ to wider drug policy debates: http:// tinyurl.com/bgwxhcr • Read Dr Sim Reaney’s comments on whether building #snowmen can help to prevent #flooding http://ow.ly/ h5GbK #BBCnews #snow
Video of the Month As part of Durham Castle Lecture Series Professor Conor Gearty delivered a lecture on 23rd January entitled Liberty & Security - for all? The lecture explains how we think we enjoy freedom while in reality few of us do and sets out a manifesto for a better future. If you missed this great lecture visit http://youtu.be/jAogFt2Kfjw to watch it now!
DurhamUniversity
A past Second Chance debater described the experience; “This has given me a different outlook on life. I felt I could not communicate. I was always frustrated. Through working with the students I have learnt how to argue constructively. It has helped me to think before I speak, and to listen, so I understand if others have heard what I have to say.”
Last year the project was covered by Radio 4 who controversially named their piece the ‘Down and Out Debaters’. It investigated the ability of Durham University students to be able to relate to people from chaotic backgrounds and followed the progress of the participants after the project.
CHRISTMAS AT DURHAM CASTLE Our recent photography competition asked students who spent Christmas Day at Durham Castle to send in their photos. Our Facebook fans then judged the winner by ‘liking’ their favourite. With 97 likes the winner was Ivalina Minova. See the full album at: facebook/durhamuniversity
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The eight week project provides training in public speaking, reasoning and communication styles. The initial aim was for the project to be both inspirational and empowering for all involved. However the outcomes have shown much more.
University experience, giving them an increased level of confidence and greater empathy with the wider community. To date the project has engaged 130 service users from The Cyrenians and 38 Durham University students.
Social media platforms are a great place to keep up to date with the University. We have compiled a list of our favourite posts, tweets and videos since the start of 2013.
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Each October a new group of The Cyrenian’s service users are transported to Palace Green where a select group of Durham University Students guide them through the art of debating.
Social media: do you follow us?
We’re looking for fresh news to share online, if you have anything you’d like to share get in touch: zoe.thomas@ durham.ac.uk
Art Tour...
Durham’s Keeper of Fine Art, Henry Dyson, is leading a second round of his popular art tours. Pauline Holt signed up... There aren’t many of us lucky enough to visit London’s National Gallery or the Tate on a regular basis but working in the Palatine Centre is perhaps the next best thing. En route to my job in the Communications Office I can stop off to admire the art of such diverse talent as Pablo Picasso, L.S. Lowry and Damien Hirst - all guaranteed to brighten the working day. That’s thanks to Durham’s augustly named Keeper of Fine Art, Henry Dyson, whose job it was to curate this magnificent collection for the recently opened building on Lower Mountjoy. The result is a veritable Who’s Who of 20th and 21st Century painting, drawing and sculpture. “My feeling was that the building could and should showcase some of the best of the university art collection and that displayed on the white walls, well lit by natural and artificial light, they would create a memorable aesthetic experience for staff, students and visitors,” Henry says. Since the Palatine Centre’s opening last October, Henry has been leading weekly art tours of the building to provide visitors with an insight into
the works on show. They’ve proved popular with over 600 people already coming along. While most of the art displayed is culled from the University’s modern art collection, Henry was able to commission new works specifically for installation at the Palatine. His tour begins with one of these, the impressive relief in the building’s cafeteria, ‘Elvet Colliery’ by County Durham artist, Peter Sales. Queuing for coffee is never a chore with Sales’ sculpture to admire. Three mine shafts had to be capped on the site of the Palatine Centre and this work features three miners at work, a canary in a cage and a pit pony. Henry says: “I felt we needed something to celebrate and commemorate mining in Durham. Nowhere in the University did we really have anything celebrating mining on what I would call a monumental scale and everyone with any connection to the city or to mining would appreciate this image.” It’s certainly one of my favourite stops on the tour. But the best bits are the idiosyncratic treasures Henry’s included. On the ground floor
HENRY’S TOP 10 • T he Mural Painting Crystal Forms by John Tunnard reimagined by David Venables. Main Reception (featured at top) • T he Sphere of Redemption by Fay Pomerance. Main Reception • R e Perspective, 4 lithographs in perspex boxes. Main Reception • T he African Tribal Collection. Main Corridor
• A ndy Warhol’s Flower Series. Law School Reception • H enry Moore’s Drawings, Law School Ground Floor Corridor • The Art Wall, Main Corridor • Victor Vasarely’s Op Art, L1 Gallery • D ietmar Vollmar’s African Paintings. Staircase 2 • Alexander Calder’s Fun Pictures. L2 Gallery.
there’s a lovely screenprint, ‘Visual Aid for Band Aid’, 1985, a montage of mini pictures from 104 artists including Peter Blake, Elisabeth Frink, Terry Frost, John Piper and Bridget Riley. Exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1985, proceeds from the sales went to Band Aid. There’s a painting of a banana by bad boy, Damien Hirst, more usually associated with dead stuff in formaldehyde. And there’s a lovely lithograph, Affiche pour le Musee Ceret by Picasso which demonstrates what a deft draughtsman the artist was. Henry loves the mix of people he gets on his tours and likes to hear their responses, even if they’re not always expected. One student told him he found Fenwick Lawson’s Law School sculpture, Hostage, based on the experiences of the Lebanon hostages, John McCarthy, Brian Keenan and Terry Waite, “unpleasant,” and objected to the sight of “a contorted human lying on the ground.” However Henry maintains it’s a “passionate plea for human rights” that sits well in the Law School corridor. What’s certain is that the Palatine collection is a perennial talking point.
Interested in taking a tour? Tours take place at 2pm every Wednesday in term time and start at The Palatine Centre’s reception area. To book a place contact Judith Aird on ext.42884 or just turn up.
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Greenspace...
Progress update on Carbon Targets
Bus service benefits
We are over half way through our Carbon Management Plan where we have a target to reduce our carbon emissions by 30% by August 2014 against a baseline year of 2008/09. At the end of the last academic year we were showing a reduction of 6% against our baseline year – a long way off our target. Some savings from projects implemented last year are still to be realised so we are hopeful that in reality this figure is slightly higher. Also, whilst 6% is not a massive in-road to our 30% target, it has been achieved against the backdrop of an expanding estate.
We still have time to make further reductions before we reach 2014 and we need the help of every member of the University to achieve this. We estimate that 40% of our target can be achieved through behavioural change – through the actions of our staff and students. Please ask yourself – “am I doing my bit?” Are you switching off the lights when not needed, turning off your PC screen, only running kit when it is needed, only filling the kettle with the amount of water required? All of these small actions will collectively make a big difference.
An example of excellent behavioural change leading to reduced consumption was demonstrated over the Christmas break where colleges showed an average of a 7% decrease in baseload demand over the Christmas shutdown period compared to the previous week and departments showed an average of a 10% reduction. We also have excellent projects in colleges and departments which are making use of the carbon ringfenced fund, saving carbon whilst streamlining processes. Please take a look around your area to see where you can help to reduce carbon emissions and think about what you can do differently. If you need any help, ideas or stickers please get in touch with Greenspace or visit the website where you will find more information. It is the responsibility of all staff and students to contribute to reducing our emissions so get active in the ‘Beat the Baseload’ campaign now!
Find out more... visit www.durham.ac.uk/ greenspace
Don’t forget you can… • t ravel for free on the inter-campus Arriva X1 Bus Service between Durham and Stockton by showing a valid campus card. • u se the bus service to travel at peak times to Mountjoy from either the Railway Station or Durham Bus Station for a nominal fee • t ravel for free on the circular bus service, U1, if you are located at Ushaw College. • j oin the Arriva Employee Travel Club (staff) if you travel regularly on Arriva buses with the benefit of having the cost of a season ticket spread over the year by paying by direct debit. Full details can be found at: www.durham.ac.uk/greenspace/travel
New Visitor Procedures for upper and lower Mountjoy The new visitor parking scheme for daily visitors to upper and lower Mountjoy, is proving to be very successful. The procedures see a more robust approach and includes the provision of several marked visitor parking bays. The new scheme of 27 visitor bays has seen numbers of up to 57 visitors a day. The bays in use have only reduced parking spaces for staff by seven as a few have been created and some were already in situ, thus utilising spaces more for staff needs. Members of staff can book a date and time slot for their expected visitor using an on-line form. Full details access to the form can be found at www.durham.ac.uk/estates/ transportparking/parking
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@Durham_Uni
DurhamUniversity
Under investigation Steve Leech
Admissions,Recruitment and Marketing Leader, Foundation Centre, Queen’s Campus.
Have you got any pets? No. When my youngest daughter was three years old we promised her a dog for her eighth birthday, thinking she’d forget about it. She’s reminded us of that promise every day for the last five years, so I guess we’ll be getting a dog pretty shortly. What are you reading at the moment? Why does E=MC2?, by Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw. It’s supposed to be written so idiots can understand physics. Apparently I make idiots look smart, because I’m stuck on space-time vectors.
What skill or talent would you most like to acquire? I would love to be able to speak other languages and play an instrument. I’m utterly rubbish at both of these things and it really irritates me. I can’t remember more than three words in any language and end up flailing my arms around like a lunatic when trying to do anything overseas. The same applies to playing an instrument. On a scale of 1-10, how much do you care what other people think of you?
What would you like you epitaph to be?
That depends on who the people are. I can think of people whose opinion I care very much about, but probably more that I don’t.
Steve is dead. Perhaps we should have been nicer to him, although he was a bit weird.
What’s your greatest vice?
What was the first record you bought?
Bread, Cheese and Real Ale. I love them all and can’t imagine life without them.
Led Zepplin “Houses of the Holy”. I still enjoy playing it, if only to see the quizzical look on my children’s faces.
What’s your favourite film?
What achievement are you most proud of? Surviving parenting, and doing so without killing my kids (although it’s not over yet). I used to have hair, you know. What was your best subject? At school? Probably English, although I was deeply hated by my English teacher. She took my underachieving personally and I was happy to let her take the credit.
I’m too fickle to have a favourite. Ask me on different days and I’ll tell you different things. Any nicknames? I used to be called Curly. Then I had kids and my hair fell out. What’s left is turning grey. It’s a cruel, cruel world. What’s the worst job you’ve ever done? Cake nudger. Seriously, don’t ask. What’s your favourite place in the world?
When was the last time you laughed and why?
Bed.
Every day. Life is absurd.
What luxury item would you take to a desert island?
What did you want to be when you were a child?
Bread, Cheese and Real Ale, nothing else matters. Actually I’d better add family to that list for political reasons.
Older. Be careful what you wish for. Where will you be going for your next holiday? We’re hoping to take the kids abroad for the first time this year. We were thinking Portugal, so the flights aren’t too long and because the culture is child friendly.
What’s your greatest indulgence? High quality bed linen. I do value a good duvet and crisp cotton sheets. Pass the buck: Finally, who would you like to see in the hot-seat? Claire Sutherland, Deputy Head of Faculty of Social Science & Health.
March Annual Easter Chick Hunt Easter Sunday 31st March & Bank Holiday Monday 1st April, 11am – 4pm Botanic Garden, Hollingside Lane Durham A fun family event around the garden organised by our ‘Friends of the Garden’. Bring the children along to see how many chicks they can find.
April ‘Gridlock: Why Global Cooperation is Failing’ – Durham Castle Public Lecture Series Wednesday 24th April Durham Castle Great Hall Professor David Held, Master of University College & Professor of International Relations, Durham University discusses why international negotiations on pressing global issues are increasingly stalling in the face of growing differences among national interests.
‘The Jews and the Longest Kiss in History’, Saturday 27th April, 2pm, Lecture room EH009, Elvet Hill House, Durham, DH1 3TH This film screening will be followed by Q&A with the director, Frederique Cifuentes and is linked to the current Oriental Museum exhibition ‘Disappearing Heritage of the Sudan’
Out of the Attic until 21st April Palace Green Library. This exhibition explains the history of the Fulling Mill and the first university museum, which opened here in 1833 just a year after the founding of the university. The exhibition showcases highlights of the collection, explains the plans for the future and asks for your feedback on what you would like to see in a new archaeology gallery due to open in Palace Green Library early in 2014.
May The Museum of Archaeology is moving! Old Fulling Mill. The Old Fulling Mill Museum will close to the public from 3rd June so plan a final visit to this unique building. The new archaeology collection will be open to the public in the Wolfson Gallery at Palace Green Library early in 2014.
June Durham University Chamber Choir & Symphony Orchestra with Sir Thomas Allen Saturday 1st June (time t.b.c.) Durham Cathedral Join some of Durham University’s finest singers and musicians as they perform with Chancellor of Durham University, Sir Thomas Allen. For more information on University events go to www.durham.ac.uk/whatson