2 minute read
A round up of events
In the past few months, it’s been great to be able to be able to get out and about to see alumni in person again! Here’s what’s been happening.
We are looking forward to celebrating Durham’s biggest global alumni event this November with the return of Dunelm Days. Since launching in 2014, Dunelm Days has been an annual event for alumni all around the world to get together informally to celebrate their shared connection with Durham University and meet fellow graduates. Dunelm Days is possible thanks to the enthusiasm and support of our global alumni community and we cannot wait to celebrate with you again this year. We’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in organising a Dunelm Days event. Get in touch by emailing us at alumni.volunteer@durham.ac.uk.
March 2022 – The Weight of the Book in Your Hand
Professor Tom Mole, Professor of English Literature and Book History and Principal of Van Mildert College, was interviewed by Beth Hall, a University Library intern, and together they encouraged us to look at books afresh and reconsider our connection with books and the roles they play in our lives. Streamed from Cosin’s Library on Palace Green, the Special Collections team also explained its significance and brought us news of the renovation project. Recently returned to its former glory, Cosin’s Library is one of the collections that has been at the heart of the University since its foundation.
March 2022 – A Fireside Chat with Charlotte Riley (St Cuthbert’s Society, English Language & Linguistics, 2000-03)
At a Fireside Chat in the Assembly Rooms, Durham, Charlotte Riley, alumna and star of stage & film, discussed her memories of her time at Durham, her successful acting career (Peaky Blinders, Press, Wuthering Heights), and her campaign to support families in film. The event was hosted by Professor Tammi Walker, Principal of St Cuthbert’s Society, and marked the occasion of the awardwinning actress receiving an Honorary Doctor of Letters from the University for her contribution to the creative industry. The chat was in front of an audience of students and alumni and was streamed live online.
April 2022 – The Vice-Chancellor’s Inaugural USA Reception with Professor Karen O’Brien
It was with great pleasure that ViceChancellor and Warden, Professor Karen O’Brien, met with senior Durham University colleagues and fellow alumni and friends, for an evening reception at the Yale Club, New York in April. Professor O’Brien spoke about her initial observations of Durham, and shared some thoughts about current and future initiatives, including plans to support our growing alumni network internationally.
April 2022 – Launch of the Entrepreneurs’ Network
Durham alumni, friends and supporters joined us in London in April for the longawaited launch of the Durham Alumni Entrepreneurs’ Network. The event brought together Durham University alumni entrepreneurs, investors, industry specialists and other supporters to create a community of Durham University alumni supporting entrepreneurship at all levels.
