Welcome

Welcome to the 2022 edition of The Year. As the College emerges, cautiously, from the latest phase of the pandemic there has been an opportunity to reflect on how Girton’s pioneering spirit has kept it going through tough times. The theme of ‘Innovative Girton’ runs through this issue, whether through the creativity of our students, the enterprise of our graduates, the groundbreaking research of our Fellows, or imaginative new developments within the College itself. No one better exemplifies an eagerness to embrace change and to try something new than Professor Susan J Smith, whose final year as Mistress this was, and her extraordinary contribution to Girton over the last thirteen years also features in this issue, with the College’s warmest thanks.

I took over as Editor in 2022, stepping into the extremely experienced and capable shoes of Martin Ennis and E Jane Dickson who are going to be a very hard act to follow. I have relied much on their support and advice as I learned the ropes, as well as the help of many others. You will notice a few changes but much which is familiar too. To all the contributors and the editorial team of Gillian Jondorf, Cherry Hopkins, Ross Lawther, Hannah Sargent and Rachael Humphrey I am hugely grateful, and could not have done it without them. Like Martin and Jane before me, I am deeply indebted to Peter Morrison, Derrin Mappledoram and Stuart Cleary of Cambridge Marketing for their expertise and generosity as well as, this year, more than a little patience.

I hope you enjoy The Year 2021–22 and we are always glad to hear from Girtonians with news or stories to share; please contact the Development Office at Girton College, Cambridge CB3 0JG (alumni@girton.cam.ac.uk).

Caroline Shenton, Editor