Evolve - Autumn 2009 - Coventry University's Alumni Magazine

Autumn 2009

The magazine for Friends of Coventry University

six clicks to

Plus Benefits and offers Graduate profiles Events and reunions Your letters and updates

Coventry online 2tone 2 tone me emories memories 30 years since graduates launched 2-Tone tthe th he 2 To one e label lab ab bel el

Art attack How creative graduates are beating the recession with artistic enterprises

win

money off the cost of a fabulous cottage holiday

Keeping it

real

Why film director and graduate Debbie Isitt thinks Coventry is better than Hollywood

evolve contents

welcome There are many challenges in the current economic climate, but interest in the arts is set to boom.

An arts revival happened during the recession in the 80s and artists are hopeful for the same reaction again as the downturn causes more of us to escape to theatres and cinemas.

Coventry’s arts graduates are already using their creativity and entrepreneurialism to carve out successful careers and in this issue of evolve, we pay homage to their achievements.

From film director Debbie Isitt releasing a feel-good family movie this Christmas to the recent graduates launching a new theatre company called New Macho; Coventry University's Art & Design graduates are fighting back.

We also take a walk down memory lane to celebrate 30 years since the launch of the 2-Tone label and speak to the graduates who brought Ska music to life in Coventry.

If this is the first time you have received evolve, then welcome to your alumni association’s magazine. We look forward to hearing your story to include in a future issue.

8

18

Keep in touch

Kristina The alumni team Deputy Director of Development and Alumni Relations Ian Moore Alumni Relations Officer Kristina Anders Data Officer Katharine Jones Annual Fund Officer Brian Wilson Head of Development Matt Feeley

Contact us Telephone: +44 (0) 24 7688 8589 Email: alumni@coventry.ac.uk Post: FOCUS, The Development Office, Alan Berry Building, Room 35, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB Website: www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni E-News: A free monthly alumni e-newsletter. Subscribe by emailing SUBSCRIBE to alumni@coventry.ac.uk Social Networking: Become a Fan and join the Friends of Coventry University group on Facebook, link up with the University and other professionals on Linkedin and get in touch on Xing.

Credits This magazine is written and designed by Elliott House Communications for Coventry University, photographs by Graham Harwood and printed by Emmersons Press.

Special thanks to everyone who contributed to this issue of evolve.

Please keep sending in your stories.

This magazine is published twice a year for alumni of Coventry University. All letters, photos and news are welcomed but we reserve the right to edit any contributions.

The opinions expressed in evolve are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Alumni Relations Office or Coventry University.

02

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

32

14

contents regulars

features

4 Update Catch up on all the latest campus and graduate news

8 Business performance Graduate company New Macho mix business with pleasure

11 Lecturer in focus Head of Department for Physiotherapy and Dietetics Karen Harrison reveals a love of muscles

14 Dance moves online Coventry has created a new digital dance archive online

12 Get connected Find out what old friends are doing now and get back in touch 24 Letters Your views and opinions about the University and the magazine 27 Profile Graduate Tim Thompson talks about his new life in Mexico 34 Events A round up of reunions that have happened on and off campus 36 What's on Find out about the latest events and activities on offer to graduates

18 Special memories Celebrating 30 years since 2-Tone was launched by Coventry grads 20 Keeping it real Film director and graduate Debbie Isitt chats about her new film 28 Number crunch Why the Government wants more economists from Coventry 30 Six ways to...

A guide to getting more out of Coventry online 32 King of content Pro Chancellor Ernest Petrie talks about his love of journalism

offers 38 Benefits All the membership perks listed 39 Competition Win money off a cottage holiday

This magazine is available in alternative formats on request. Call +44 (0) 24 7688 8589 or email alumni@coventry.ac.uk

Vice-Chancellor Madeleine Atkins reveals how the University is helping in the recession In tough times, individuals and businesses need to implement tough measures for survival.

We have been successful in a bid for a share of £50 million in an economic investment scheme announced by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). More than 70 universities and colleges will be offering help after winning a share of the money, £27m of which has come from the Government. Coventry has been awarded the full grant it applied for which is just under £500,000 and the money will go towards developing targeted training and skills development, specialist advice, mentoring and start-up support in order to stimulate growth and business development. There is also support for specific sectors – niche manufacturing, automotive technology, serious gaming, and the creative industries. Though the focus is on rapid action and short-term help, we will also help businesses succeed when recovery gathers pace.

For recent graduates, the challenge to secure employment is even greater in these difficult times.

The University’s Careers Service is here to give advice, as well as our Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE) for those wishing to set up a business. You may also want to consider a postgraduate qualification or a Continuing Professional Development course to develop your skills further and your chances of getting the job you really want. We continue to offer careers support and guidance even after graduation, so do please feel free to give us a call or come and see us if you think we might be able to help.

Professor Madeleine Atkins Vice-Chancellor

03

evolve update

update

Got a story?

Send news to alumni@ coventry. ac.uk

The latest campus and graduate news

Formula for success R

ecent graduates claimed a world first in June after their team’s Bio-ethanol powered Locost racing car won the 750 Motor Club Locost championship – beating standard petrol vehicles.

It is believed that this was the first time a bio-ethanol powered machine had beaten petrol counterparts in club Motorsport in the UK and the team have won four out of 13 races this season, with six podiums.

David Wick (Engineering, 2008), Paul Nowland, James Trostler (both Mechanical Engineering, 2008) and final year Engineering student Matt Cherrington formed Bio-Tech Motorsport while at University. They have been working on a project for the last three years, sponsored by Coventry University, aimed at proving alternative fuels can work at any level of motorsport and plan to sell conversion kits to other racers keen to change their petrol cars.

Driver Matt, who races the Locost, also set up his own company 'TMC' that builds and prepares cars for races. “You can't beat the adrenaline when you're racing," said Matt. "I'm looking forward to graduating now so I can concentrate on the business."

04

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

BOY RACERS: David Wick, Matt Cherrington and Paul Nowland at Silverstone in August. Inset: Matt before the Silverstone race

Represent FOCUS around the world FOCUS is looking for ambassadors to represent the alumni association in different countries around the world.

A job description and person profile has been produced about the kind of graduate that would be perfect for the position and the alumni office is now searching for volunteers. The aim is to create a voluntary network of ambassadors around the world.

The search started in North Africa, where the International Office recently held four events for Coventry graduates to attend.

Adverts were placed in local papers to invite alumni to events in Tanzania, Arusha, Uganda or Nairobi. For more information visit www.coventry.ac.uk/ambassadors.

evolve update

DRAGON: (l-r) Daniel Sheridan, Peter Jones, David Wick and Simon Hill

newsinbrief Good progress

Dragons and directors inspire

G

raduate entrepreneurs received advice from Dragon’s Den star Peter Jones and won awards from the Institute of Directors this year.

Peter Jones visited the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE) to see how the University is working with student entrepreneurs.

Simon Hill (CPD, 2008) who runs his business Summit Marketing Solutions met the Dragon.

“Peter is a genuinely nice guy but he pulls no punches and when I met him, he gave me three minutes to give him a Dragon’s Den style

pitch of my business,” said Simon who's currently studying for an MA. Graduates were also honoured at the Coventry Means Business Awards – an event that marked the end of a year-long mentoring scheme run by the Institute of Directors (IoD) for Coventry and Warwickshire. The scheme is the first of its kind and pairs up business leaders with aspiring young entrepreneurs. Among the winners were graduate company New Macho (see page eight).

Winners received a cheque for £800 and the runners up, £200.

Be a global entrepreneur E

nterprising graduates who want to get ahead and become better innovators should take the new MA in Global Entrepreneurship.

The Masters qualification, which is run by the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE), is a two-year part-time course and includes the chance to attend a study week based at The Shanghai Institute of Foreign Trade in China. The overseas work gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to explore new markets.

The course includes 10 modules that help students gain practical knowledge that can be applied to their business or corporate career.

Modules include personal entrepreneurial development,

profitability and financial performance, and marketing for entrepreneurs.

IAE also offers support to develop businesses while you study as well as a range of resources.

The course costs £4,230 for two years excluding travel and accommodation in China.

For more information contact Dr Gideon Maas on gmaas@cad.coventry.ac.uk

Coventry has risen up the ranks of The Times Good University Guide, reflecting its investment in helping students find employment.

Relative to other new universities, Coventry performs particularly well on entry standards and on graduate prospects, which measures the proportion of graduates who have found graduate level jobs or moved into studying for a postgraduate qualification.

Coventry climbed three places to 71st position in the guide that was released in June.

Car trials Coventry University is part of a consortium which will run the world’s largest user trial of privately owned low carbon vehicles.

The Coventry and Birmingham Low Emission Demonstrators (CABLED) project will trial a range of electric and hydrogen vehicles across two cities.

The Government’s Technology Strategy Board has invested £25m in the project (the biggest project of its kind) which will fund eight trials nationally within the next six-to-18 months.

Play the game The world communication conference on sport and society, Play the Game, came to the UK for the first time this year and was hosted by the University.

The conference was co-organised by Coventry University’s Centre for the International Business of Sport (CIBS) with Play the Game and attracted around 400 media professionals, academic researchers and sports practitioners.

Issues facing world sport were discussed, such as good governance and anti-doping.

05

evolve update

memory bank Graduates reveal their favourite student memory

RECOMMENDED: Lucy Gillett at the conference in Malaysia

Angela Owen (neé Day) (Law, 1988) The juke box in the SU's Mandella bar (1985-1988) playing Indie such as The Violent Femmes and The Cult – and then as a complete contrast the pop of the time, for example MARRS' Pump up the Volume and Peter Gabriel's Sledge Hammer.

Christopher Jackson,

Ambassador storms Malaysia

(European Studies with French, 2002) My best memory is finishing a three hour exam at 12.30 and going straight to the Colin Cambell to watch England V Argentina in June 2002 in the World Cup. Beckham’s penalty!

A

Coventry graduate has made recommendations for improving education for all young people in Commonwealth countries.

Lucy Gillett, a 20 year old Law graduate and current Young UK Ambassador, attended the 17th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers (CCEM) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

A total of 110 youths from 29 Commonwealth countries took part in the conference, which was in its 50th year, as part of the relatively new youth forum.

“The youth forum was a fantastic opportunity to

Bryan Finlay (Mechanical Engineering, 1966) An amazing mentor – Control Systems Lecturer Sandy Livingstone.

Steven Coyles (Business Studies, 1983) The friends I made in Priory Hall from BA Business Studies (1979-1980).

Matthew Jones (Biological Sciences, 2000) The fun of Fresher’s Week and making new friends, the experience of living in halls and settling into a new life with new like-minded people. At Coventry I had a real journey – and looking back have nothing but great memories from my time at Uni.

06

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

not only learn about the education systems of other Commonwealth countries, but also to use these differences to implement recommendations to the Commonwealth ministers which will effectively improve education for all young people among the Commonwealth countries,” said Lucy who stayed with a family while she was there to learn about the culture.

Lucy was one of two representatives who presented the recommendations and also chaired the drafting committee that collated all the information to draft the recommendations.

Humanitarian honoured A

former student has been honoured for his humanitarian work at this year’s International and postgraduate awards ceremonies.

Dr. Majid Alsadi who studied for a part-time MPhil-PhD in Mechanical Engineering (featured in evolve autumn 2008) in the 1980s was conferred with the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Business

Administration. It was in recognition of his contribution to humanitarian work, regeneration and education in Iraq and the Middle East.

He has recently been made a Visiting Professor in Aerospace Engineering and supported the development of a set of flight simulators. In 2007, the University launched the Majid Alsadi Scholarship Foundation, which gives financial support to students from Iraq and elsewhere.

Fashion show first

STYLE: Models show off the creations of final year students

The Degree Show 2009 included a free student fashion show

T

he first cohort of students to graduate from Fashion displayed their creations at the graduate fashion show, part of this year's Degree Show.

The full catwalk show included garments from awardwinning student designer Kevin Geddes.

The Fashion Show was just one part of the successful event which invited graduates from all years back to the University to look around. Work was included from students in Industrial and Automotive Design and Visual Arts as well as Theatre, Media and Fine Art among others in the Faculty of Art & Design.

It was an opportunity to look at some of the latest in car designs from award-winning students and to see designs and products of the future.

Designs on show included innovative wind-powered super yachts, electric cars, a purpose-built helicopter designed to help control bush wildfires, products to help detect lower body injuries and even a new type of roller coaster.

To see films from the Degree Show 2009 visit www.coventry.ac.uk/degreeshow

Graduate's new album A Coventry graduate has released her first album after discovering her talent for singing and writing music at the University.

Verity Pabla (Theatre and Professional Practice, 2005) released Trust Again in June.

Two years ago Verity turned professional and set up her production company I’m Not a Machine Productions with support from the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE).

Verity, who has been compared to singer Beth Orton, said: “I’m confident this will be the album that raises my profile in the British music scene. The most important thing though is that people are enjoying it!”

The album is available at www.silveryrecords.com or find out more at www.veritypabla.com.

Double celebration 35-years later One graduate who missed out on his graduation ceremony is making up for it 35 years later after winning a stay in a luxury hotel in the same year he is attending a special reunion. Derek Holden (Combined Science, 1974) entered the evolve competition in the spring 09 issue to win a two-night stay at the four-star luxury Ramada Hotel Coventry. Derek correctly unscrambled the name Lady Godiva and was entered into the prize draw to win the hotel break. “It will be nice to come back and look around," said Derek."I made a lot of good friends who I lost contact with over the years. It would be great to see them at the 1974 reunion event in November.”

07

evolve enterprise

TEAM PLAYERS: (l-r) Lindsey, Eileen and (front) Robert perform in New Macho Service Station in Coventry city centre. (Inset) Performing in Feed the Birds in 2008

Business

performance Performing arts are set for a revival during the recession and one new theatre company is using business sense to keep their artistic passions alive 08

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

PLAYTIME: (left and below) Street theatre (right) an interactive installation called No Conferring

A

t the end of every performance, New Macho hand out origami cranes to their audience.

In Japanese culture the crane symbolises honour and loyalty and for New Macho it’s also a brilliant marketing device.

Promotional tactics like these are just one of the tools many artists currently leaving the University are being encouraged to adopt. Survival is no longer just about great acting in the theatre, there also needs to be a great performance in the business world too. And especially so in tough economic times.

New Macho is part of a new wave of theatre companies that are mixing commercial sense with creative talent. The trio are currently studying for an MA in Innovation and Enterprise in Performing Arts and are based in the University’s new Institute for Creative Enterprise (ICE).

The course not only helps them to hone their performance skills but also teaches them how to ensure their theatre company will make money.

“There were lots of debates when we first attended the modules in business and entrepreneurialism,” said Lindsey Hartland who formed New Macho with course mates Eileen McCarthy and Robert Jones while studying Theatre and Professional Practice. “They were teaching us how to run a business, but it was such a cold approach to a project that we felt was part of us. We were very precious about our company at first but then we saw how the modules could help us with practical things, like pricing.”

Business mentors gave them tailored advice on funding packages and raised their awareness of the competition in the marketplace.

“It has taught us to be realistic and think about ways the company can work in the outside world,” said Robert. “We don’t think of ourselves as students, we’re in a business now.”

New Macho was one of the only arts companies to be accepted on to

the ‘Lessons in Avoiding the World’ play, which was set in a makeshift squat. Their aim is to be accessible to everyone – especially those who don’t normally go to the theatre.

From street theatre projects supported by the City Council to performances at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry; New Macho is in work and happy. All three are prepared to pick up part-time jobs while they get the business off the ground and they spend every spare minute hatching innovative ways to attract audiences.

They recently won the Best Business Idea at the Institute of Directors' Coventry Means Business Awards.

“We use the origami birds and our logo of a paint splat to create a presence and a buzz. This viral and guerrilla marketing builds our brand.

Main image courtesy of Coventry City Council

“Our lives are this company now.

The thought of doing anything else feels unnatural to us.” the University’s Student Placements for Entrepreneurs in Education (SPEED) programme and received funding to help them get started.

“Coventry has had a big part to play. The first thing the tutor said when we started was: ‘From now on you’re an artist,’ which put you in that mindset from day one,” said Lindsey.

In the tough economic climate, the arts are hoping to experience the upside of the downturn by offering a form of escapism. New Macho believes it is in the best position to do that and hopes to attract younger audiences. “We’re all only 22 so we make stuff that we enjoy. We want to attract the next generation of theatregoers,” said Robert.

They write and perform their own contemporary shows, which often include a social commentary, such as

We leave recognised symbols behind to show we’ve been somewhere,” said Eileen. “Our lives are this company now. The thought of doing anything else feels unnatural to us.”

According to Japanese culture, New Macho’s greatest wish will come true if they fold 1,000 origami cranes.

They dream of touring the UK with their own work while still having as much fun as when they first started.

While there are compromises to be made, New Macho is proving that to be successful, artists must learn to mix business with pleasure.

Find out about the help available to creative enterprise over the page.

Find out more about New Macho at www.newmacho.com

09

evolve enterprise

How to... start a creative business Business Mentor Robin Underhay explains how the University’s new creative institute can help businesses like New Macho creative entrepreneurs and will offer practical advice and guidance.

Boost skills with ICE's postgraduate courses

Breaking the ICE Based on the Technology Park the Institute for Creative Enterprise (ICE) provides incubation space and business start-up advice for creative graduates wishing to set up their own business. It also has a performance studio, a screening room, a digital studio, a café and wi-fi is available throughout the building. It also offers postgraduate courses in creative subjects.

Support packages on offer for creative graduates ICE and the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE) offer support for new creative businesses, from start up to networking and business support. You can expect: ● Support for up to 12 months (initially) from the start of your business ● One-to-one advice and discussion with a Business Mentor (by appointment) ● Invitations to networking meetings ● Access to telephone support and advice ● One and a half hours' free use

10

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

of the Board Room for meetings per week ● A minimum of four specifically tailored business support modules ● Access to numerous fact sheets, publications, booklets and brochures ● Introductions to banks and other funding opportunities ● A prime location and furnished hot desk space for up to 12 months ● Access to fast broadband internet ● On-site Business Mentor and support staff

Business mentors help grow creative enterprises The dedicated business mentors will help creative graduates to plan, establish and grow their creative businesses. Mentors are all trained business advisors and appreciate the different approach needed for the creative sector. They understand

The University’s School of Art and Design offers the following Masters courses based at ICE: ● Design and Digital Media ● Media Arts ● Performance Innovation and Enterprise ● Dance Making and Performance ● Media Production ICE also provides business development support, placements for students, mentoring, information, debate, advice and more.

The aim is to develop partnerships and collaborations between the postgraduate students, working with academic staff, and the professional cultural organisations based in the Institute.

More information to get your business started For more information on how to start and develop your business (and not just in creative enterprise) TEXT to 60777 IAE (space) followed by either of the following (dependant on personal situation) _Undergraduate _Graduate _Business _Other A mentor will respond to your text with details of the service they can provide.

Alternatively, please contact Robin Underhay on +44 (0)24 7623 6001 or runderhay@cad. coventry.ac.uk

evolve profile

national physiotherapy examinations. I had to go to Cambridge University to collect the award; it was splendid and very exciting.

In 2000, I became the first UK Chair in Physiotherapy Education.

You feel pride in lots of different things – such as graduates who become outstanding clinicians in their field or do something which is nationally recognised. I also feel proud when we visit our students on placement and our graduates are teaching them.

A lot of well-known names in Physiotherapy have come through here. Student satisfaction levels in the Department are extremely high; 92% in the last University student survey.

“I find anatomy completely fascinating” Karen Harrison is the Head of Department for Physiotherapy and Dietetics and has been with the University since 1993, when she joined as a Principal Lecturer from Wolverhampton School of Physiotherapy

Email alumni@ coventry.ac.uk to send Karen a message or let us know which academic you would like to see in the next issue.

Q A

Why did you choose to teach Physiotherapy?

Q A

What are you most proud of?

Like most things I’ve done in my life there has been a degree of serendipity about it. After my undergraduate physiotherapy training at Birmingham, the Principal called me when I was working as a Senior Physiotherapist, and suggested I go into teaching. I then did my teacher training at what is now the University of Birmingham.

I find anatomy completely fascinating. I like the sounds of muscle names such as Flexor Hallucis Longus or Pectoralis Major – there’s a charm and delight about them.

When I was a student, I was awarded the Manley Memorial prize for getting the highest mark in what were then

Q A

Do you use any interesting teaching techniques?

Q A

How have the courses progressed?

I do the lead lecture on a module called Welfare, Health and Inequalities and we discuss stereotypes. I always describe my 80-year old father, who does quite outrageous things. I talk about (with his permission), how he has severe osteoporosis and is very bent, has a hiatus hernia and tinnitus, to conjure up a certain picture about how he will look. I then put a picture of my father up on the screen and he’s standing behind a red, 600cc Yamaha motorbike, because although he can’t walk without a frame, he can perch up on a motorbike by propping himself up on the handlebars.

There’s usually a huge hoot of laughter when I show it. It challenges assumptions.

The differences are enormous. I often think I would love to go back and do my physiotherapy training all over again as it is such a cracking course.

The e-learning facility is one of the main differences. We’ve developed the online InterProfessional Learning Pathway, which 1,400 students use, including medical students at Warwick University. That’s an enormously powerful innovation and there isn’t anything else quite like it in the UK. We offer the most comprehensive Masters portfolio in the UK by a long way and we also have the only MSc in Acupuncture in Europe.

We offer novel provision in a number of areas that other institutions don’t offer at all, such as ultrasonic diagnostic imaging, or neurological injection therapy, which involves injection of botulinum toxin into spastic muscles. We look for whatever is a new area in development and try to get there first.

11

evolve get connected

getconnected Coventry graduates from over the years reveal what they are doing now

Margaret Faber

Raymond Tew

Chemistry and Metallurgy, 1966

Mathematics 1970

Having started at Lanchester College of Technology in 1963, when D block was still unfinished, and C block was fairly new. It was a big surprise to me when I visited this year to see it being demolished. I was the only woman on my HND Chem and Metallurgy course – now it seems to be the norm for women to do all the engineering and science courses.

I retired in 2007 from my final position of Principal Lecturer in Quality Management at Nottingham Trent University.

to take place, so I had completely forgotten that it had never taken place. If the majority would like to have the ceremony in November 2009, then I would also be pleased to take part in that, otherwise a dinner/reunion would be a wonderful idea and an opportunity to catch up with friends from that time.

Carol Maxwell

Dr Ashley Nixon

Modern Languages, 1974

Applied Biology, 1979, PhD 1992

I had already gone off on a two-year world trip when the original 1974 graduation ceremony was supposed

About six years after graduating I registered as a part-time, remote postgraduate student, for research into soil chemistry and ground flora changes associated with woodland restoration on the Isle of Rum, Scotland under the supervision of Dr Humphrey Smith. I believe this was the first PhD in the Biology Department of the newly formed Coventry University from a graduate of the Modular Science programme. During this time I was a lecturer in environmental management at Norwich City College, Farnbrough College and Sunderland University. I then went into environmental consultancy with the University of Aberdeen and its spin-off company, Cordah.

This led me to work all over the world (more than 30 countries), including Peru where I was based for four years working in the mining and oil and gas sectors. In 2001 I moved to Calgary, Alberta, where I still live, now as a Canadian citizen, working with Shell Canada first as Sustainable Development Advisor and, more recently, as Social Performance Manager in the Heavy Oil Division.

Graduated 1960s

Graduated 1970s

Nigel Adams Business Studies (Marketing), 1970 I was a member of the second cohort on the Business Studies (Marketing) degree programme from September 1966 and was awarded a BA (Business Studies) honours degree in 1970. A very long time ago!

There were 85 men and one woman on the programme. Very different from today’s Marketing programmes!

Following my graduation in 1970, I continued working for Massey Ferguson in several international marketing roles until 1983, when I was headhunted by Cargill Inc to work on Countertrade projects in London and Geneva. In 1985 I established my own Countertrade consultancy business and then from 1993 until 2002, I worked in Poland as a UK government Know How Fund Management Adviser.

Following my return to England, I re-established my international business consultancy company and was also a visiting lecturer in Marketing and International Marketing at Coventry University and at the University of Buckingham.

Today, in addition to running my own international business consultancy, I am also Programme Director for the BSc Business Enterprise (BBE) at the University of Buckingham, mentor the BBE students and lecture in Marketing and International Marketing.

For further information, please see: http://www.nigeladams.com and http://www.buckingham.ac.uk/business/bbe/

12

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

d

GRADUATION: (l-r) Stephen Winteridge back in 1974 and how he looks today

Stephen Winteridge Combined Science, 1974

I

suppose if I had realised that a few poor A level results in 1971 meant that universities wouldn’t want me, I might have tried harder. But we all know that at 18 there are other things in life apart from study. That said I knew that if I wanted to get a decent (well paid) job, I would need some more qualifications, and anyway I had no idea what I wanted to do for work.

Applications to various colleges were duly completed and Lanchester Polytechnic offered me a Combined Science course. Success indeed, but it was in Coventry, nearly 150 miles away!

The Lanch was my first prolonged time away from my home in Yorkshire. My parents accused me of being homesick at my first return, but I was only home to have my washing done! I soon got into the swing of things, made many friends and certainly was not homesick.

I studied Combined Science for my first two years, and during that time lodged with Mr and Mrs Jessop in the Broad Lane area.

For my final year I had a place in the halls of residence overlooking the delights of Pool Meadow bus station, when no part of The Lanch was located outside of the Ring Road. Times were good; we studied hard, but also partied well.

Progressing to gain my degree in Mathematics has always surprised me, none more so than when I discovered an old folder of theories, calculations and formulae a year or so ago, and couldn’t understand a word of it. It must have made sense at the time, as it was

definitely my handwriting.

Those days in Coventry were the best and most formative days of my life.

I do remember the bar (through a Younger’s Tartan haze) and the Polytechnic motor club and seem to recall tearing round the Warwickshire countryside in various vehicles with somewhat dubious reliability.

Everything worked out well for me after leaving. A job in (what is now called) IT, first at Lucas Industries, is what I still do, albeit now for only two days a week.

Fortunate enough to be semiretired, and happily married to Pauline, I have time once again to tear around the countryside (within the speed limit now of course).

But there has always been a hole in my history. Whatever happened to all of us who never went to a graduation ceremony because it was cancelled due to the Birmingham pub bombings? I am not in contact with any of my fellow students from that time. Did everyone just lose touch?

I welcome the proposed gathering [on 27 November 2009], and would dearly love to see inside some of the old lecture rooms located in the block alongside Cox Street, the bar, and some of my other haunts in Coventry.

“there has always been a hole in my history. Whatever happened to all of us who never went to a graduation ceremony?”

Graduated 1980s

Joanne Leung (nee Miller) Modern Studies, 1986

After 20 years of living in London and working in insurance, I now have three children aged five, four and

eight months, and am now a full-time mum living by the sea in Dorset. I am a classic degree and career first, then, luckily at 38, started my family.

When they are all at school I hope to run a sweet shop – I wouldn’t say that my degree will be of much use then, but I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!

Graduated 1990s

Jeffrey McQuone Applied Physics, 1993

I have completed 15 years teaching KS3 and GCSE Science and I am now progressing on to A Level to teach Physics and Chemistry at

13

evolve get connected

Deborah Ellis Business and Finance, 1994 In 2004, when I was aged 34, my career as a paramedic came to a rather abrupt end when I needed to have both my hips replaced. I was born with congenital bilateral hip displaysia.

It meant I was unable to do the job of my dreams. I became very depressed, as I knew that the technology I needed for my hip replacements would not last my lifetime (you can only have so many review operations and I was still too young). Things looked pretty bleak. Then my doctor put me in touch with my Consultant Steven Young. In March 2007 I had my L hip replaced and in the following August the R hip.

While I was having my hips replaced I passed my Class A motorbike test. But I felt that having just had my hips done a return to front line duties would be a little different from before. Also, I did not want to wear out my new hips with the demands of front line work. Even though I did try Control Room duties, I decided to move onto new horizons.

I have worked for Alliance Medical since September 2008. The job I was originally hired for was made redundant but luckily, with my patient skills, I was re-deployed to Clinical as a MRI Technician at my local Nuffield Hospital. Now I can get my teeth into a new patient area by taking patients through their MRI scan.

I have also built myself a new hobby as a singer/songwriter within the Folk Music Industry. Life is starting to look up again.

West Nottinghamshire College. I am also married with two kids and have a keen interest in developing the effective use of ICT. My business ‘Educatio’ Educational Consultancy is also now over 10 years old and still going strong, supporting the secondary teaching profession in the Midlands area with notable inspirational events based around rockets of all types.

Joyce Vials Nursing Studies, 1993

I completed an MA in Medical Ethics and Law at 64 years of age at Keele University. I retired at 65.

Paul Lock Technical Communication, 1994

After graduating, I worked for local companies as a Technical Author and in 1997 started my own company, working as a Consultant Technical Author in the Banking and Financial Services sector. My work took me to several different countries, including

14

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

India, Eire, Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.

I have recently finished a major contract in Switzerland for a large financial firm and highly recommend working and living there. I also gained an MSc in Interactive Media from UCE Birmingham and plan to follow a full-time MSc Data Communications and Security course at Birmingham City University in order to develop my Cisco networking skills.

Coventry University proved time well spent and has always had a well-deserved reputation for encouraging mature students, of which I was one. Best wishes to the University and its future students.

Sylvia Dos Santos

Andrew Penfold and Emma Penfold (nee Stacey), Emma: Occupational Therapy; Andrew: Business and Technology, 1998

Emma and I married in 2007 and just had our first baby Charlie who was born on the 5th April.

Venthan Mailoo Physiotherapy, 1999

If Paul Brennen or James Hardy are reading this, please get in touch with me on servantofvishnu@gmail.com, thank you.

Graduated 2000s

Mohammed Zubair Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 2000

Shortly after graduation, I joined the chemical industry, and spent several years analysing electroplating solutions for precious metals. Parttime study led to a postgraduate degree in Chemistry and helped further my chemist career.

Britain’s economic downturn aside, and having been made redundant, I am still in work as a Voluntary Teaching Assistant. I help elderly people from the local community learn basic Internet and email skills. I am hoping to participate soon in a PhD research programme, developing new antibiotics. Most importantly, I still cherish the many good memories that I have of both staff and students while at Coventry University, and I wish them and all present members of this Institute well. I hope you are all successful in every endeavour you undertake.

Ian Alvares

Modern Languages, 1998

PgD Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2001

I met John Lennon while at University who was studying Business Administration and we graduated in the same year. We were married in Jersey in 2003 and we now have a baby daughter who was two at the end of August. John and I are both employed in the financial sector in Jersey.

Once I returned to India from Coventry, getting a job in Environmental Science was a difficult task. Either the payscales were really bad or the positions available did not match my line of interest. I therefore decided to

continue with studying and enrolled for a part-time PhD which I have almost completed. I also work for Dell in Hyderabad, India, in the training department. The year I spent in Coventry will always remain the best year in my life. Reminiscing conjures up fond memories of the great lecturers I met, friends I made and beautiful, beautiful England.

Here’s hoping that I will some day gladly again get a chance to be ‘sent to Coventry.' Anyone from the 20002001 batch who reads this, I would love to hear from you.

Andrew King Advanced Product Engineering, MEng, 2002

Started my own company two years ago to go contracting. Now currently looking to develop this in to a consultancy and develop my own products ideas. I took on my first employee this year and looking to take on another by the end of 2009.

Mervyn Leah MA Marketing, 2006 After five interesting years as a part-time lecturer, I now devote much of my time on a voluntary basis as chairman of a nonprofit heritage railway.

Kevin Rebello Mechanical Engineering, 2003

I got married to Shabana (Physiology, 2001) in May 2008, having been together since 2001. Both of us studied at Coventry University, having met at the Planet. Our first baby is due in October 2009, so not long to go now! The good old memories of our Uni days!

Yohann Macé BEng Automotive Engineering, 2006

I have very good memories of Coventry. After I graduated, I did the Master EUROMIND (MSc in Design and Technology of

Advanced Vehicle Systems – www.euromind-edu.org). This Masters is a partnership between Southampton University, Linköping University (Sweden) and E.S.T.A.C.A (France) and aims to give students the ability to work in an international environment. The transport industry is an international business. Mobility and adaptability are the main skills of engineers today.

Tracy Davis Adult Nursing course, 2004 After finishing my course, I sold my house in Coventry and moved with three children and my partner to Falmouth, Cornwall, into a rented cottage with no heating. My partner is a chef and found work immediately and I started working as a staff nurse at Falmouth Hospital where I have now been for five years. The family now enjoy days on the beach and the life that Cornwall presents. We have been so happy living here, but will always have a soft spot for Coventry.

I went to Sweden in January 2007 for a semester and then left this peaceful country to do Automotive Specialisation in Paris.

I finished my studies in Germany on an industrial placement for six months.

I lived in four different countries during my studies, which meant I met people from all over the world and discovered different cultures.

I try to keep in contact with the people I met. I strongly advise Coventry students to study at least one semester abroad, it will be an unforgettable experience.

Peter Cotton Diploma in Public Service Leadership, 2006

Having not formally studied since the late 1970s, it was quite daunting to go back to college and study for a DPSL. Everyone involved was very supportive, encouraging and helpful to me throughout the whole course.

15

Dance moves

online The University has launched the UK’s first digital dance archive of the work of one of the country’s most prominent contemporary choreographers

£102m

Every year, the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AH RC) provides £102m from the Government to support research and Postgraduate stu dy in the arts and humanities. For more information visit www.ahrc.ac.uk

16

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

evolve research

H

istory and dance are clos ely most exciting areas of the connected. The relation archive is Kitchen ship where visitors can see how is discussed in the fore all the ingredients word of a dance work are source of the recently launched d, developed and come together to make digital archive Siobhan the final work. Users can gain insight to the cre Davies Replay – describ ative processes of ing lead ing composers, designe both as being made up rs and artists. of Together with the video-s movements, moments tills option, these and people, of actions, unique parts of the archive responses, choices and provide access chances. to dance in ways that are Performances have bee entirely new and n documented for could have a profound years in the form of arti impact on how dance cles, photographs and is viewed, made and dist even costumes or set des ributed in the future. igns but advances Being at the forefront of in technology have create such developments d a wealth of places Coventry in a pro audiovisual recordings minent position to lead – including films of other digital archive pro performances or even talk jects.” s from the creators.

Siobhan Davies was a lead This expanding collection ing dancer has led to and choreographer for the creation of the UK’s the London first digital dance Contemporary Dance The archive of one of Britain’ atre in the 1970s. s most celebrated In 1981 she collaborate choreographers. The onli d with other leading ne resource is cho reo accessible to students, graphers to form Second researchers and dance Stride, and in 1988 created her ow enthusiasts via an attract n company Siobhan ive and interactive Davies Dance. She was website. Content is free awarded a CBE in and includes over the New Years Honours 2000 fully searchable elec in 2002 and is now a tronic records of Visiting Professor of Dan moving image, still images ce at the University. and text relating to 36 dance works and eight related project s.

Users can also generate their own ‘scrapbook’ of ima ges and text-based materials.

The archive has been cre ated by researchers from the Centre for Media Arts and Perform ance (CeMAP) at the Univers ity in collaboration with Siobha The archive represents n Davies Dance the history of the and was funded by the choreographer’s work.

Arts and Humanities Many of the objects Research Council (AHRC have been sourced dire ) as one of the last ctly from Davies and Resource Enhancement her collaborators’ person Schemes. al collections, while Starting back in Januar institutions and private y 2007, the project contributors have has taken 18 months to loan ed other items. Almost all come to fruition. of these objects Professor Sarah Whatle appear online for the first y, Director of CeMAP, time, and in many first came up with the idea cases they have never while searching for PERFORM: been viewed by anyone material documenting Sio since they were created.

From the bhan Davies’ work performance: for her own research. “Th Siobhan Davies believe is really is a first for s the archive Wanting to contemporary dance,” is a huge achievement she said. “By digitising tell stories. for both her own this amazing collection Photo by David org anisation and for CeMAP of work, not only are we at the University.

Buckland saving it for future researc “Dance performances thri hers, but also raising ve on being seen the profile of contempor in the mo ary dance. One of the ment of their doing but there will now be a wealth of kno wledge that can be DANCE: From the per easily accessed through formance: Bank. my, and I hope the Photo by Sean Hudson many future, dance arc hives,” said Davies.

“This will lead to a fuller understanding of the many models of thinking and practice which underpin this extraordina ry art form.”

“not only are we savin for future researchers g it also raising the profile, but contemporary dance” of

To view the Siobhan Davies Replay, visit www.siobhandaviesr eplay.com.

To find out more abo ut research at Coventry visit www.c oventry.ac.uk/researchn et

17

evolve nostalgia

THE LANCH: The Specials performed at The Lanch to crowds of fans in the bar

“The Specials wouldn’t have existed without Coventry”

SINGING SUCCESS: Pauline Black is still performing all over the world today

Special memories It has been 30 years since Coventry graduates launched the 2-Tone label and introduced a whole new style to the British music scene

18

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

T

he Specials wouldn’t have existed without Coventry,” said Bass Player Horace Panter (Fine Art, 1975). He was speaking at the University ahead of the band’s recent Glastonbury performance and 30 years after he had launched the 2-Tone label with fellow graduate Jerry Dammers.

Horace, who came to study at The Lanch, met Jerry on the art course and together they formed Ska band The Specials.

Horace remembered Jerry walking into the art studios in “tartan trousers, grown out Modhaircut complete with sideburns”

singing “I Shot the Sheriff at the top of his voice.”

The distinctive 2-Tone style was influenced by Jamaican Ska music and mixed with the contemporary punk and pop sounds of the time.

The bands were also unique in the early 80s for including different races. It made a powerful statement against racism – and The Specials in particular used their lyrics and performances to reinforce their views.

The different social backgrounds and personalities of the seven band members that made up The Specials often led to explosive performances on and off stage – and eventually to the band’s demise in 1981.

But 30 years on the group has

Images courtesy of Pete Chambers / Pauline Black photo: Mark Crame

PLAQUES: Horace Panter unveils one of the plaques at a special city location

re-formed, this time without Jerry, and has played a sell-out UK tour – including the festivals – has visited Australia and New Zealand and has another UK jaunt booked for November to the delight of fans.

One fan that is keen to see the revival is local music journalist Pete Chambers who has spent the year placing commemorative 2-Tone plaques outside key city venues.

In November the last one will be unveiled outside the Students’ Union where many bands such as The Specials and The Selecter played.

“The Lanch was extremely important,” said Pete who has written a book about the 2-Tone music scene in Coventry. “The Specials filmed the video for the single Rat Race in the

main hall and the song was written

by Roddy Byers after he overheard students discussing the jobs their parents had got lined up for them after graduation.”

The Specials were not the only 2-Tone band to come out of the University. Pauline Black, lead singer of Ska band The Selecter, studied Combined Sciences here in the 70s and remembers the “halcyon days” of University performances.

The group did their first show in the Downstairs bar at the Students’ Union in 1979 – for a 75p admission price. “You could see bands in the Downstairs bar for a reasonable price and it was absolutely rammed.

The atmosphere was really good,” said Pauline, who still performs regularly but originally wanted to become a biochemist. “I think I was one of the only black students here.

I used to go around with a huge great Afro. No one ever seemed to do any work,” recalled Pauline who left Coventry University to study Radiography at Coventry and Warwickshire Hospital.

After qualifying, Pauline went on to work at Walsgrave Hospital before being headhunted by Lynval Golding

(of The Specials) to join The Selecter.

Although the group eventually disbanded, Pauline diversified into acting and TV presenting, eventually re-forming The Selecter in the 90s and touring the world for 15 years.

Since 2006 Pauline has embarked on a solo music career, most recently performing in Argentina, Brazil and Australia. She regularly guests with Neville Staples from The Specials and is impressed by the renewed interest in 2-Tone music.

“I’m pleased there’s a revival of Ska. The Skatalites (a Jamaican band) started it all off and it’s where the music originates from.”

While there are many performers who brought Ska music to life, Coventry will always be the home of 2-Tone thanks to the University alumni who made it all happen.

Pete Chambers plans to open a 2-Tone museum. Any graduates who would like to donate memorabilia or record memories should contact tencton@hotmail.com or visit www.2-toneat30.info.

19

evolve big interview

“The Stanislavskibased training I received at Coventry really did get under my skin�

20

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

evolve big interview

Keeping it

real

As her latest movie gets set for release, film director and graduate Debbie Isitt explains why studying and living in Coventry is more inspiring than Hollywood

D

ebbie Isitt doesn’t have a swimming pool in her back garden. Nor does she spend her days lunching with other film types in London or Los Angeles, discussing the latest movies or theatre productions.

It’s a world she has deliberately avoided in an effort to ensure her work continues to reflect real life. Its eccentricities and its tragedies are both in abundance in the down-to-earth city of Coventry and it is here where Debbie’s

passion for realism began.

A student in the early 80s on the Theatre and Professional Practice course at the University (then known as the Coventry Centre of Performing Arts),

21

REAL SHOW: Jason Watkins turns into teacher Gordon Shakespeare

it was the Russian Constantin Stanislavski’s method of acting that appealed most and convinced her to use improvisation in film.

“The Stanislavski-based training I received at Coventry really did get under my skin,” explained Debbie about the system that is based around an actor ‘living the part.’

“If an actor can own their role and know exactly what to say because they have become that other person then it means their acting is the best it can possibly be and for me it’s about pushing the acting to the extreme. The ultimate end game is improvisation. It’s much more difficult and scary, but more creative.”

It's a technique she has employed on her latest film Nativity, which is due for release this Christmas.

British actors Martin Freeman (The Office) and Jason Watkins (Being Human and Little Dorrit) play two teachers in the improvised comedy who compete to put on the best school Nativity production. Martin's character attempts to persuade his ex-girlfriend and Hollywood film producer, played by Ashley Jensen (Extras and Ugly Betty), to visit Coventry to see his school's Nativity.

It's a story based on the fact Debbie knows lots of actors who became teachers and then felt like they failed at acting. The underlying message of the film is that teaching is a more worthwhile profession.

For Martin it is the second time he has worked with Debbie as he starred in her first improvised film Confetti, but for Ashley it was a whole new experience – especially filming in the Midlands.

“Ashley Jensen was having a swimming pool built in her back garden in LA at the time, and she was getting on a plane to come to Coventry and I thought: ‘Oh geez, she’s just come off Ugly Betty [award-winning American sitcom], she’s got a swimming pool in LA

22

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

REHEARSAL: (l-r) Actors Martin Freeman, Ashley Jensen, Jason Watkins and director Debbie Isitt on set (inset) Martin and Ashley in the movie

and she’s coming to Coventry.’ But everyone really loved it here and I was really proud,” said Debbie who was born in Birmingham but stayed living in Coventry because she liked the community-feel of the city. She lives in Longford with her ten year old daughter Sydney and partner Nick Ager (a film editor who also edits all of her work). “We had brilliant support, I was invited with open arms into schools for research and casting.

All the actors and crew said it was their happiest shoot.”

“You make your own luck and Coventry understands that ethos more than anywhere”

All the pupils in the film are from local schools and the University’s Ellen Terry building was used for auditions. The whole production was more expensive to shoot in the Midlands because it meant taking everyone out of London. But it was an endeavour regional funding body Screen West Midlands was keen to support and for obvious reasons.

“I wanted to represent Coventry in a positive light. It looks fabulous on the film and hopefully it will do a little bit for the tourism business.

The Cathedral looks amazing. We probably couldn’t have filmed it here without the funding. It was brilliant for me as I didn’t have to get up so early,” laughed Debbie who jokes that the extra hours in bed were the real reason behind filming locally.

Getting into Coventry to study theatre was a dream come true for the director who found it impossible to hold down a normal job – she was sacked from five different positions in the space of 12 months.

“I wasn’t very good at functioning in normal roles. I worked as a switchboard operator and cut

evolve big interview

COMEDY CRITIC: (above) Comedian Alan Carr stars as a critic in the film LOCAL KIDS: (left) Local schoolchildren star in the improvisation with Marc Wootton

student profile

people off, I let people have stuff for free when I worked in shops. I was a lunatic! I had to get back to the thing that made me sane – and that was performing. I’d dreamt of going to New York to study theatre and film and then I saw an advert for Coventry and that was a bit nearer and I could afford the train fare.”

It was at the auditions with other “street-wise” young people that Debbie finally felt like she belonged and was desperate to get in. “I remember thinking I’d have to kill myself if I didn’t,” she recalled. “When I got the letter I knew it was the beginning of the rest of my life. It was a sign I’d made the right decision and I should pursue my dream.”

The dream led to the formation of a theatre production company called Snarling Beasties that she set up with fellow Coventry graduate Mark

Lived: In a shared house on Green Lane Favourite pub: Dog and Trumpet Favourite memory: When Mark Kilmurray and I were cast as Arthur Miller and Marilyn Monroe in our first student production of After the Fall.

We thought we were ‘IT’ then, as you do when you’re young!

We got good reviews from everyone. We were Posh and Becks before they existed. I bet everyone hated us.

Kilmurray. The pair took their show to Edinburgh, which was the start of 15 years of working all over the world.

“In the 80s it was all about small independent theatre, it rocked, it was sexy. The timing was fantastic for us.

It has been a real source of sadness that small scale independent theatre has disappeared. That whole actor/ manager thing is a brilliant way to live

and learn,” said Debbie who believes Coventry gives its theatre students a real sense of empowerment.

“There’s almost a business link, an entrepreneurial spirit, that’s linked to the programme and to the tutoring.

There’s an old saying you make your own luck and Coventry more than anywhere seems to understand that ethos and empower its students to make their own luck.”

It’s a belief that has served her well so far. As well as creating her own films, she has recently been commissioned to script a film about the North Wales all-male Fron Choir and write a film adaptation of a Marian Keyes novel.

Work is busy, which is good in a recession, and while Hollywood is feeling the effects of the credit crunch, Debbie believes British filmmakers will fare better as they’re used to smaller budgets.

“My ethos is to keep things on a realistic level, keep control, do what you love and don’t be pushed by other people’s expectations of what you should be doing.”

If Nativity does become a global phenomenon, this is one director who won’t be losing touch with reality.

Nativity is out on Friday 4 December. Debbie Isitt is appearing in a Coventry Conversation at the University on 22 October, which will also be available online on the University’s iTunesU site.

23

evolve letters

letters

Share your views with other Friends of Coventry University and you could win £25 to spend in Waterstone’s.

Our star letter prize is kindly donated by Waterstone’s Coventry University.

Student sympathy Dear FOCUS,

I HAPPY MEMORIES: Martha pictured in Bali at her son's recent wedding

24

was interested to read Rachael’s diary (evolve, spring 2008) and budget for the week. When I was at Coventry (1989-90 – I was excused the first year of my degree because I had Open University credits) I worked at Watford Gap service station. My shifts were Saturday and Sunday nights from 11pm until 7am. I got back to Pool Meadow station at 8am

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

star letter

on Monday mornings. I just had time to get back to Wood End, where I lived, shower, and be at my seminar for 9am. One morning a student who frequently arrived late – or not at all – was due to lead our discussion. He didn’t turn up.

The lecturer sent someone to get him out of bed. He arrived rubbing his eyes, with his jeans and sweater pulled over his pyjamas!

I had very little money because I was a lone parent with three children at home. I haven’t got much money now because I am 67 and on a State Pension so I am unable to donate to the Phoenix Fund. I am glad it exists because there must be many people who don’t go to university because they can’t afford it. I enjoyed university and learned a lot. Not least that getting mediocre essays in on time got me the same degree as my brilliant friend who got excellent essays in very late!

I worked as a Debt Counsellor at Wood End Advice Centre until I retired at the end of 2000.

Martha Young, Modern Studies,1990

evolve letters Waterstone’s is the UK’s leading academic bookseller, with a comprehensive range of course books, textbooks and professional titles at highly competitive prices. The shop stocks an extensive range of academic books from the UK and abroad, with an expert team on hand to help.

Waterstone’s, Coventry University, Frederick Lanchester Building, Gosford St, Coventry, CV1 5DD, or visit other Coventry branches in Cathedral Lanes and the Lower Precinct.

Please send letters to Letters, Development Office, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB

Happy to graduate Dear FOCUS, I do appreciate the wish of the University to make good the lost 1974 graduation.

I remember well that the disappointment was compounded by the manner of the cancellation, just two or three days before it was due to happen, which meant that many people turned up with their families on the day, expecting to graduate.

Anyone who wrote to the Director at the time was told that the Polytechnic was urgently considering inviting 1974 graduates to the 1975 graduation – but this was not to be honoured. Alumni seemed to count for less then.

I am sure most of us thought the cancellation an overreaction. There had been incidents in the West Midlands, including the death of a bomber from his own device in Coventry, but I thought then, and still do, that the proper reaction to terrorism is to take essential precautions, but not to let normal life be unnecessarily disrupted.

I do hope that the invitation to the 1974 reunion graduation this year will receive the positive response that it deserves. However, in 1974 it would have been a farewell by people at the start of their careers.

In 2009 it will be a reunion of people approaching retirement, and many will be untraceable.

I hope that the surviving and former academic staff of the era will be invited too. There were some

Weird Science Dear FOCUS, I was fascinated to read your profile of Professor David Kirk (evolve spring 2009). He taught me Metallurgy back in 1984-5 when I was studying Physical Science/ Materials Technology. I went into the Physical Science stream after year one and had little contact with him after that. I do remember the smartly suited Dr Kirk (as he was then, but little changed in the profile photo) puffing away on his pipe. I have wondered how many of my lecturers are still putting chalk to board. I had assumed most would have retired. Although this does not seem to have stopped Professor Kirk.

Like him I was disappointed to hear about the loss of the Materials and Physics courses. I did meet some of the final Physical Science students when they visited the Joint European Torus, where I got a chance to talk to my final year tutor Dr E D (David) Jones. The changes I saw in D Block [James Starley Building] when I visited for the recent Careers Service alumni event – all the labs converted into classrooms – were quite significant.

Though the floors at the south end still droop the way I remember (enough to cause a sense of nausea when I sat at the back of 101 one time).

In the early days of my career I worked with several Coventry educated scientists, though with the loss of the departments no new scientists have passed within my career orbit. This is a shame. These departments did outstanding work and now that they are lost, will probably never be brought back. Thanks for bringing back a few more memories.

Paul Burton, Physical Science, 1988

great characters among them and it was they, more than anyone, who made The Lanch years so memorable.

Bill Urry, Modern Studies, 1974

Dear Bill, Thanks for your letter. So far, we have had a really positive

response to the 1974 graduation ceremony reunion (details at www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni/ events). We are keen to include as many people as possible so please pass the word on. We hope the special ceremony will go someway to replacing your missing graduation.

25

Develop your

career

As a Coventry University graduate, your education is already benefiting you in the workplace. Why not let Coventry continue to enhance your career even after you have graduated?

Postgraduate and part-time study offers you the chance to add a range of specialist skills to your portfolio and advance your career options.

We also offer Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training programmes through our School of Lifelong Learning to further enhance your career progression.

Come along to one of our Postgraduate and Part-time Open Days to find out about the opportunities:

Thursday 12 November 2009, 4pm – 7pm Saturday 14 November 2009 10am – 2pm Alumni who would like to arrange a meeting with a tutor at a more convenient time can contact the Graduate Centre for a separate appointment or come along to an Open Day. Subject experts will be available to advise you about our courses and you can have a tour round our dedicated facilities for Postgraduate, Part-time and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) students.

Our open days take place in the Graduate & CPD Centre, Jaguar Building on the city centre campus, accessible from Gosford Street, off Junction 3 of the ring road.

For further information and to register, please email gradopendays.uni@coventry.ac.uk or visit www.coventry.ac.uk/postgraduate or call + 44 (0) 24 7688 8614 For the School of Lifelong Learning visit www.coventry.ac.uk/soll or email lifelonglearning.soll@coventry.ac.uk or call + 44(0) 24 7688 7867

evolve profile

“Mexico has changed my whole life” When Tim Thompson (MSc Computing, 2003) got the urge to do more with his life, he embarked on a trip to Mexico where he met his wife and started a new business

Q A

Why did you go to Mexico?

I was working in a local company after graduation and I decided I wanted to do something different with my life. I went out to Mexico with a Christian voluntary organisation and I was placed with a family to get to know the culture. It was through them I met my wife Mirna, who I married in November 2008.

After the two-year placement came to an end, I found a job with a web agency over there who were developing as a competitor to Ticketmaster, and so I decided to stay.

Q A

Why did you set up your own company?

I have always wanted to express my own creativity and values. While I love Mexico, work conditions are harder than we are used to in the UK. Salaries are lower, hours are longer and there is little job security.

I felt that where I was, I was unable to grow professionally. With a desire to do great things and lead a better quality of life, my situation was the push I needed to make the jump.

What is different about your company?

Q A

My business Stem Pixel builds usable, accessible and attractive websites. I specialised in accessibility for my MSc, because at that time it wasn’t formalised in law but I thought it was important.

Most web designers had a graphic design background and were not interested in coding websites for accessibility because there was a perception it would look boring.

So I set out to develop a website that could be both accessible and look good.

I wanted to do something that improves the world – even in a small way. I can bring

MEXICAN WAVE: Tim with his wife and daughter (inset) Tim with his father David in Mexico who works at Coventry University

those values to my clients now.

How are you finding the new business?

Q A

Going into business in the current climate is a bit daunting but I thought there had to be something better than what I was doing.

I wanted to spend more time with my family as I am currently informally adopting my wife’s daughter and my wife is also pregnant. I just need to maintain the income that I had before and hopefully improve on that. I recently gained two more clients when I was over in the UK so things are going well.

What does the future hold?

I have based the business in the UK, as I mainly work with British companies who value the work that I am doing on accessibility. While we intend to move back to the UK in the near future, the great thing about web design is you can work on it anywhere in the world.

I come back to the UK regularly for client visits and I’m back over in October to meet with the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE) to get some more business support.

Q A

To find out more about Tim visit www.stempixel. com and to find out about how the IAE could help your business visit www.coventry. ac.uk/iae If you would like to feature in a graduate profile contact alumni@ coventry.ac.uk

27

evolve employment

The Government is searching for more economists to join the civil service and Coventry graduates have been equipped with the right skills for the job

Number

crunch

T

he effects of the credit crunch on the economy could be compared to the impact of Swine Flu on the NHS. During a pandemic you need more doctors, and when the economy is ill you need more economists.

It’s a comparison that Deputy Director of the Government Economic Service (GES) Andy Ross made when he described the need for more graduates, especially from

28

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

post 1992 universities, to apply for assistant economist posts.

“It’s difficult to imagine a more important time to get good graduates into the GES and we’re very keen on Coventry. It depresses me that we still get more applicants from Cambridge and Oxford than all the post ’92 universities combined,” said Andy. “Once they are through the entry process it’s clearly a level playing field. I wouldn’t bet on a candidate’s career progression

just from knowing their university, it becomes an irrelevant variable.”

Diversity in the civil service is an ongoing issue. Only recently a Government social mobility report stated that 45 percent of senior civil servants were privately educated.

Statistics like these deter some Coventry candidates with good grades from considering a role in Government. This lack of confidence is a "waste of good talent" according to Andy.

h

If I can do it, anyone can” Biba Ahmed (Economics, 2005) is flying high in the Government Economic Service, despite initial reservations about applying When Biba attended the GES Open Day, she never believed her application would be successful. Four years on, and Biba is an Assistant Economist in the Department for Work and Pensions and has just completed an MSc in Economics at the University of Birmingham – funded by the GES. “Two of the best decisions in my life to date are applying to Coventry to do Economics and the other was applying for the GES,” said Biba who wanted a job where she could use her economics on a regular basis. “At least 60 students were at the open day and a lot of them were from traditional universities like Oxford and Cambridge. I wondered if there was any point in applying.” But she did, and after an application form and a couple of online tests, Biba was invited

GOOD MATHS: Biba Ahmed is glad she applied for a position in the GES

“Coventry is good preparation.

You concentrate on a deep understanding and application rather than just mimicking sophisticated mathematics. This is more important for the professional practitioner economists that we have in the GES. Coventry recognises that economics is an incredibly vocational degree,” said Andy.

A career in the civil service comes with an attractive package – starting salaries begin at £25k for

to an assessment day in London with 16 other candidates. “When I saw graduates from the London School of Economics I wondered if I would be as good as them but I did really well in the assessment.

I don’t think I would have been able to do it without the support of the economics staff at the University and also the content of the degree course.”

Biba is hoping to progress to an Economic Advisor within another year.

“A lot of people think it’s a number crunching job, but it’s not. You’re faced with real world policy issues every day.

It’s a great place to work. Unemployment is high at the moment so I’m hoping to work on a high level policy area to help sort out the problems we’re facing as an economy and as a country.”

an assistant economist and these posts are often fast tracked up to advisor level within five years where employees can expect a career average of around £55k.

From there, it’s a step up to a senior civil servant and, for those that really want to go far, possibly a post as a permanent secretary. Gus O’Donnell, the current Head of the Civil Service, is a GES member who started out as a GES economist.

Despite the rewards, it’s a career that cannot be considered lightly as the decisions made could affect millions of people’s lives. The GES employs a rigorous testing process for candidates because many will go on to work at very high levels, solving issues of national and international importance.

“They will engage with some of the top minds in the country and people who wield enormous power,” said Andy. “Some people think they have a right to be in the GES because of their university, but these often come unstuck in the process. Some people

will show off that they are potentially Nobel Prize winning economists but that’s not what we’re looking for.

We’re interested in good consumers of economics, who apply the subject to the world around them. We deal in dilemmas not lemmas!”

Andy advises attending the GES Open Days to get more tips on applying to the service – and recent graduates as well as not-so-recent graduates should consider applying (a 2.1 in Economics or a postgraduate degree in Economics is needed).

“It’s a fascinating subject and in times like now highlights how important it is,” said Andy. “Coventry graduates are well-equipped and it’s due to high quality teaching. I see the proof of the pudding in terms of the quality of the graduates.”

If you think you have what it takes, visit www.ges.gov.uk for more information.

29

evolve online

Whether it’s catching up on the latest University news or watching professional presentations, the new alumni website has more to offer graduates

ways to enjoy Coventry online New look The alumni website www. coventry.ac.uk/alumni has had a makeover.

As well as a new design and loads of new content, there is also an exclusive login area which is only accessible to graduates. All graduates who are registered with the alumni office have been issued with a username and password so they can access special content on the site. If you have not been sent your details request them by emailing alumni@coventry.ac.uk.

Exclusively yours The exclusive login area allows you to update your contact details online, search for old friends and leave messages for other graduates to read. This separate area of the site also allows you to read member-only content too.

It includes information about the general career progression of graduates from individual courses, which we compiled from your feedback to our questionnaire. www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni/login 30

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

Image courtesy of Mark Tredgold

PRIZES: Graduates have won tickets in our online quiz to see the Coventry Blaze ice hockey team and (inset) won University goody bags

Win prizes Graduates can log in to the site to enter competitions and quizzes to win prizes every month. The site has given away goody bags full of University memorabilia, University t-shirts and graduation bears, as well as tickets to see ice hockey or for events such as the Doctor Who Exhibition at the Coventry Transport Museum.

See and hear more

The alumni site also links up with Coventry’s YouTube channel and iTunesU. Coventry was one of the first universities in Europe to open an iTunes store, and it now has over 200 lectures, tutorials and videos to download for free. An alumni section includes film lms from the Gala Events calendar Su and Summer Balls and FOCUS Now you can keep up to date with all the latest grad graduates can also on Media re reunions and events by checking our online calendar. request to upload members can now t The interactive diary means you will never miss out on a their own films. Visit listen to the Coventry Coventry event again and you can register for most events www.coventry.

Conversations series online.

It has received thousands of online too. www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni/events ac.uk/itunesu for downloads on iTunesU and more information.

YouTube. The alumni site You can also has links to the podcasts w watch a range of that are recorded by l fi lms and lectures students News update C on Coventry University umni Televis Keep up to date by subscribing to the monthly alumni Television (CUTV) www yo e-newsletter. As well as the latest news, you can also at www.youtube.com/ see who's looking for old friends, be the first to hear about covstudent. Launched 18 months online competitions ago, its videos have been watched and get a list of the more than a million times. latest events and reunions. Subscribe For more information about by sending an getting online contact the email to alumni@ alumni office on email at coventry.ac.uk with alumni@coventry.ac.uk or visit SUBSCRIBE in the www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni or call subject bar. +44 (0) 24 7688 8589.

5

31

evolve development

King of content A career managing regional newspapers has turned Pro Chancellor Ernest Petrie into a great admirer of journalism and the art of communication

I

n regional press terms, Ernest Petrie is a media mogul. It’s not a phrase he would use about himself, as this surprisingly selfeffacing man is very careful about the words he chooses – a skill he admires greatly in journalists.

Working life began as an accountant on a local newspaper in the Thomson Organisation, until at 31 he became the youngest managing director in the group.

“I was very stimulated by the whole environment, it’s a fast moving business,” said Ernest. “It liberated me from accountancy.”

Ernest became Managing Director of the Coventry Evening Telegraph in 1993, and was part of the management buyout of the paper.

He helped to float it on the stock exchange and then finally sold it to the Daily Mirror Group in 1997.

While Ernest has always focused on the commerciality of newspapers, he holds the creative elements in high regard. It challenges the perception of accountants squeezing resources.

“I enjoyed the fact we could make things happen together. It was up to me to find enough money to allow the papers to expand, to have good writers and to be well resourced,” explained Ernest.

32

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

FUND: Channel 4 Newsreader Jon Snow presenting Ernest's scholarship fund.

In the current climate though many regional newspapers are feeling the pinch and facing cuts to cope with the decline in advertising and the growth of internet news. He believes these issues are not the death knell for local journalism. “The need for journalists is rising but it will be spread across a much broader canvas. It will be as much electronic communication as it will be about the traditional printed word. They all have a part to play.” It’s a belief that is evident in his personal investments. He is a major shareholder in Forth Independent Newspapers, invests in a website design company in Leeds called Chapter Eight, in a regional magazine group which includes Midlands Business Insider and in two national magazines, MIX Mag and The WORD. “Very local news will never be totally supplied by the internet. Local weekly newspapers are coming through the recession

much more strongly in terms of their readership and their commercial performance than the big metropolitan and daily newspapers. Content is king.

The person who owns, stimulates and delivers the content has a business model that will work,” said Ernest who set up a University scholarship fund to support student journalists. Channel 4 Newsreader Jon Snow recently acknowledged the recipients of the fund at an awards ceremony.

“I have always had a high regard for people who were skilful with words as it’s a very powerful and enabling facility. I wanted to put something back into training and development of young people and I’d recommend that to anyone who feels they have a bob or two to spare. If one more person feels stimulated about doing journalism because of the fund, then I’m a very happy chap,” said Ernest who also supports the Rowington Almshouse Charity.

His involvement in the University stretches back to his days at the Coventry Evening Telegraph when he became a Governor. He is now one of the five Pro Chancellors who take an interest in the well-being of the Institution and preside over the graduation ceremonies.

Communication has driven his career, but it is education that Ernest truly believes changes lives.

“As far as my children and my grandchildren are concerned I’ve always tried to help with their education. It’s the one unique thing that goes across boundaries. It’s one of the few things you can do where you can’t go wrong.”

Curriculum Vitae 1991-93 Managing Director of Coventry Evening Telegraph 1993-1996 Managing Director of Birmingham Post and Mail 1993 Became Governor at Coventry University 1996-1998 Business Development Director on launches and acquisitions on all weekly newspapers 1998 Managing Director of Scottish Daily Record and Sunday Mail 1998-2002 Group Managing Director for Yorkshire Post group of newspapers (orchestrated MBO in 1998 and sold to Johnston Press) 2002 Retired and became Pro Chancellor of the University

You too can support students with scholarships and bursaries. Visit www. coventry.ac.uk/alumni/ support for more information.

“I have always had a high regard for people who were skilful with words as it’s a very powerful and enabling facility” 33

evolve events

events

reunions alumni events what’s on

A round-up of reunions and events that have been happening on campus and across the UK. Visit www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni/events to keep up to date online with future and past events

Graduates see the Doctor An exclusive after-hours tour around the Doctor Who exhibition attracted nearly 50 people to the Transport Museum earlier this year.

It was a one-off opportunity to see the Doctor Who exhibition without the crowds and at a discounted price.

Steve Bagley, Head of Collections at the Transport Museum and a self-confessed Doctor Who fan was on hand to give information out about the exhibits, which included the TARDIS, Davros, K9 and many items and characters from more recent episodes of the hit show.

Refreshments were available after the tour, which gave alumni a chance to catch up with friends as well as hear the latest news from the University.

Jason Kinmond, Combined Science 1985 came along on the evening and said: “Thank you very much for the hospitality, what a great exhibition and a nice idea to have a private viewing.”

Check the online events calendar for future events like this that you could attend at www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

34

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

UNITED: Fernanda is third from the left and Hatem is second from left

Global reunion D

istance was no object for one group of friends who were determined to get back together on campus five years after their graduation.

The friends who all live in different locations around the world are 2004 graduates of the MA Communications Management and MSc Operational Communications.

Fernanda Veiga, who is Brazilian and now lives in Spain, managed to reunite 13 of them in June.

“It’s great to have people here from all over the world – including Russia, Mexico, Zambia, Trinidad and Tobago, Malta and Egypt,” said Fernanda. “Some of us have met with each other over the years if we have been visiting their country but this is the first time we have all been together.”

For Hatem Hanafi and his wife Marwa Dewidar from Egypt it was a chance to introduce their nine month old daughter Khadeeja to the city they once lived in as well as reunite with friends.

Hatem said: “We used to live in a house on the Foleshill Road in Coventry and we have tried to call everyone we knew so we can see them while we’re here.”

After the weekend Fernanda is keen to get the group back together again. “I would like to do it again in five years' time. The alumni office has been so helpful in organising this event,” she said.

Inspired to meet up with your old friends? Visit www.coventry.ac.k/alumni to look at the reunion pages or email alumni@coventry.ac.uk or call +44 (0) 24 7688 8589.

Fair play Students beat the graduates at this year’s Sports

O

ver 200 people attended this year’s Alumni Sports Day in May where students beat the graduates in three out of the five matches.

The annual event was held at Westwood Heath and attracted teams of men and women for matches of football, hockey and rugby.

The men’s alumni football team beat the students 4-3 in a tightly contested match, but the women’s alumni football team lost out to the students.

It was the first time footballer Alex Moore (Transport Design, 2004) had been to the annual Sports Day. “I’m really glad I came, it’s great to be playing back with the team again.

It’s the first time I’ve been back to Coventry since I left as well.”

The alumni men’s hockey team drew with the students 3-3 but the women’s alumni hockey team were beaten 5-1.

Despite losing, Jenny Wood (Leisure Management, 2005) was pleased to be playing with her former hockey team mates again. “I used to be a part of women’s hockey when I was a student and I play for the

Jaguar Ladies Hockey Club now.

It’s good to get everyone together again. It’s a social event more than anything,” said Jenny.

The men’s alumni rugby team lost to their student counterparts with an overall score of 43-22.

The event was the fourth Alumni vs Students Sports Day and ended with a trophy presentation before the teams celebrated in some of their old haunts in the city centre.

If you would like to take part in next year’s Sports Day contact the alumni office to book your team’s space. Just email alumni@coventry.ac.uk

GOOD SPORTS: From top: The alumni football team celebrate; student captains collect the shield; University cheerleaders; men's alumni hockey team.

A vintage reunion One London reunion helped graduates learn the difference between a Shiraz and a Chardonnay at a Wine Tasting evening.

The guided wine tasting tour at Vinopolis in London earlier this year was a chance to learn about wine as well as mingle with friends and make new contacts with other Coventry graduates.

Graduates sampled wines and learnt the differences between regions, grapes and vintage years. Ben Donovan (Psychology, 2004) came along to the event and said: “I really enjoyed the evening.

Everyone I spoke to commented on how well it went and there was a lot of enthusiasm for us all meeting up again some time.”

35

evolve events

what’son Book yourself in for any of the events happening on and off campus.Visit www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni/events for the most up to date information October 15 October The Best And Worst Of Times – Who Would Be A Journalist In The Second Decade Of The 21st Century?

Jon Snow (Channel 4 News) give his inaugural talk as Visiting Professor Time: 10.00 Place: Coventry Cathedral

15 October Sexorat And Investigating So Much More Shelly Jofre (BBC Panorama) talks as part of Coventry Conversations.

Time: 13.00 Place: ETG34

17 October Prodders '89 Reunite A 20 year reunion for the Production Engineering class of 1989.

Time: 7.30pm Place: The Walls restaurant in Oswestry, Shropshire Organiser: Chris Farmer - cjo. farmer@btinternet.com

22 October

Ghostly goings on Have fun this Halloween at a spooky event for all the family Alumni are invited to take a journey into the dark and mysterious side of the historic heart of Coventry this Halloween on an organised ghost tour.

Two tour guides will reveal stories of ghosts and spirits, murder, mystery and mayhem from Coventry’s historical past and delve into the shadows of the city by twilight.

Alumni Relations Officer Kristina Anders said: “It promises to be an experience to make your spine tingle, to surprise and delight. It’s suitable for children of all ages too so all the family can join in the spooky fun.”

The tour will last one and a half hours and children are encouraged to come in fancy dress. There will be hot drinks

and d bi b i biscuits for everyone in the Start-up Café at the end of the tour.

The event is on Saturday 31 October from 4pm until 6.30pm (please meet at the Alan Berry Building at 3.45pm to ensure a prompt start). Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children up to 13 years. Contact Kristina on alumni@coventry.ac.uk to reserve your places.

Making "Nativity" Debbie Isitt (feature film maker and Coventry alumna) talks in Coventry Conversations.

Time: 13.00 Place: ETG34

28 October I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Into There!

Professors Richard Keeble, John Tulloch and others (Part of The ICE Conference) Time: 10.00 Place: Start-up Café

36

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

28 October Is World Journalism In Crisis?

Live video conference chaired by Peter Sissons – speakers from the UK, USA, Africa and China, and Nick Davies and Jeremy Paxman (both tbc) Time: 14.00 Place: Humber Theatre

29 October Blocking Investigation or Ensuring Truth For Clients?

John Stonborough (Media Counsel) talks in Coventry Conversations Time: 13.00 Place: ETG34

29 October Blood, Iron and Gold Christian Wolmar (best-selling author) talks in Coventry Conversations Time: 18:00 Place: The Herbert Café

31 October Spooky Ghost Tour of Coventry Family Halloween event, children welcome.

Time: From 16.00 until 18.30 Place: Alan Berry Ticket price: Adults £5, Children up to 13 years £2.50

Future reunions Don’t miss out on these forthcoming reunions organised by graduates

November 05 November From the Headington Shark to Radio Success Bill Heine (Presenter, BBC Radio Oxford) talks in Coventry Conversations Time: 13.00 Place: ETG34

12 November An Alternative View on TV News Stephen Cole (Presenter, Al Jazeera English) talks in Coventry Conversations Time: 13.00 Place: ETG34

19 November Does Local Commercial Radio Have A Future?

Phil Riley (Owner of six Midlands radio stations) talks in Coventry Conversations Time: 13.00 Place: ETG34

26 November Secrets of the BBC Election Graphics Jonathan Spence (Lead graphic designer, BBC Election and Coventry alumnus). Part of a day of graphic design talks including Philip Oliver and Martin Lambie-Nairn.

Time: All day Place: GS404

27 November 1974 Graduation Reunion For all those who missed out on their Graduation Ceremony in 1974, join us for a celebration event 35 years on.

Time: TBC Place: Coventry Cathedral

» Graphic Design class of 1981 A 30-year reunion is being organised for the 1981 graduates of Graphic Design to meet again at the 2011 Degree Show.

Graduate Mark Elling decided to organise a reunion after he got back in touch with old friends – one of whom now only lives down the road from Mark in Wiltshire – through the website Facebook.

“It feels like only five years ago when we all graduated and that we haven’t really grown up. It’s the curiosity factor of life after the Lanch,” said Mark, now an Events Manager for the charity The Trussell Trust. He has tracked down 10 people so far who were on the course but would like to hear from others.

Get in touch with Mark Elling at m.elling1@ntlworld.com or contact the alumni office at alumni@coventry.ac.uk.

» Combined Science class of 1975 A reunion is being planned for 2010 to celebrate 35 years since the Combined Science class of 1975 graduated.

Trevor Theobald is organising the event and would like to invite anyone who graduated in 1975 from the Combined Science course and the single subject science courses (such as Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Statistics) – including former tutors.

A precise date and venue for the 2010 party is yet to be confirmed but Trevor is keen for people to register their interest.

“I would like to invite fellow alumni TV weatherman John Kettley and his wife,” said Trevor. “The event could involve a dinner and perhaps a Ceilidh. It would be good to do a campus tour.”

Anyone interested in attending should contact Trevor for more information at trevor.theobald@abagri.com.

» Event of the decade Alumni eager to reunite with others from their graduation year can now get help with organising the event.

Graduates can ask the alumni office for assistance in organising an event for people from their graduation year, their course or Students’ Union club.

If you’re interested in organising a reunion for the year you graduated or would like some support to organise a smaller gathering back on campus contact the alumni office for more information on +44 (0) 24 7688 8589 or at alumni@coventry.ac.uk.

37

evolve benefits

Member Benefits Benefit from your connection to the University and get discounts on useful services listed below. For more information go to www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni or call the alumni team on +44 (0) 24 7688 8589.

leisure Up to 50% off the UK's top attractions, such as The Alton Towers Resort, Chessington World of Adventures & Zoo, LEGOLAND® Windsor, Madame Tussauds London, the Dungeons, SEA LIFE centres & Sanctuaries, THORPE PARK and Warwick Castle. Call +44 (0) 870 220 4000 and quote Coventry University along with the date of your visit.

Exclusive Open Fairways Offer – save up to 50% on your green fees at over 1800 golf courses around the world with the Open Fairways Privilege Card. Join today for only £69 and start saving. Log onto www.openfairways.com/joinnow or call +44 (0) 28 9039 3990, quote offer code COV09.

Enjoy 2-for-1 meals or 25% off your bill – including drinks – at thousands of UK restaurants with the Gourmet Society Dining Card. Fantastic discounts at over 3,000 leading restaurants across the country. Annual subscription usually costs £53.50, but FOCUS members can join for just £27.95 and get two months extra FREE. Visit www.gourmetsociety.co.uk and click JOIN NOW using the promotional code: COV or you can join by phone by calling +44 (0) 800 043 1978 and quoting the same code.

transport Save up to 10% on car and van hire with Europcar. To make a reservation please call +44 (0) 871 384 1082 and quote 50308793. This discount applies to all hires taken in the UK and includes cars, vans and prestige vehicles.

Save up to 30%* on AA Personal Membership from the UK’s No. 1 breakdown organisation.Members are also eligible for 25% off European Breakdown Cover.

Call + 44 (0) 800 048 0075 and quote Coventry 627. *Terms and conditions apply. Discount applies to new members only.

Please ask for full details when calling.

Save 25% on RAC Breakdown Membership for you and your immediate family at enrolment or renewal.* Call +44 (0) 800 581 077 and quote GE0300. *Terms and conditions apply. Please ask for full details when calling.

Up to 10% discount on advanced bookings for airport parking and airport hotels in the UK. Visit www.parking4less.co.uk/alumni or call +44 (0) 871 360 2131 and quote WY705.

38

www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni

evolve benefits

At Your Service As a Friend of Coventry University, your membership includes: • Evolve – the bi-annual alumni magazine • Member only website at www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni • A monthly e-newsletter • Invitations to reunions and events • Free find-a-friend scheme to help trace old friends.

holidays Stay in the four-star luxury of the Ramada Hotel in Coventry – Gold Award Winner of the 2008 Godiva Award for “Best Hotel” in Coventry and Warwickshire. Discounted rates start at £67.50 per B&B. Call +44 (0) 24 7623 8110 and quote Coventry University Rate (or call the alumni office for larger group bookings).

Save 10% on a holiday with cottages4you. 15,000 properties throughout the UK, France, Ireland Spain, Portugal and Italy. Visit www.cottages-4-you.co.uk/coventry or call +44 (0) 845 268 1282. Quote COV10 when booking.

university offers

Win a cottage holiday!

• Discounted Library membership – only £20 per year. Call the alumni office for more info

Coventry University has teamed up with the UK’s leading self catering provider cottages4you, to offer one lucky graduate £250 off a stay in one of their cottages.

• University Sports Centre – for discounts on full to basic membership, ask at the Centre

E

• Associate membership of the Students’ Union – call the SU on +44 (0) 24 7679 5200 • Careers advice and graduate vacancies, see www.coventry. ac.uk/cu/careers or email careers.ss@coventry.ac.uk or call +44 (0) 24 7615 2525 • Business start-up support from the Insitiute of Applied Entrepreneurship (IAE). Text 60777 IAE or call +44 (0) 24 7623 6001 • Join Coventry University Wine Club – call +44 (0) 24 7688 8161

scape from it all and enjoy a holiday in one of over 15,000 cottages4you properties across the UK, Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal and Italy.

Choose from a majestic castle in Scotland for you and 20 friends, a cosy cottage for two in the Lake District, or a fabulous villa with private pool on the Spanish coast.

You can choose to stay for two, three or four nights as a short break, a week or perhaps even longer. Whatever you

choose, cottages4you are sure to have the perfect property for you.

To be in with a chance of winning £250 off the cost of a cottages4you holiday, just unscramble the name of a famous band associated with Coventry:

ETH LASPSEIC

Send your answer to alumni@coventry.ac.uk or by post to Cottage competition, Development Office, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry CV1 5FB by the closing date of 11 January 2010.

Terms and conditions 1. The holiday prize is subject to availability and must be booked and taken by 31 Dec 2010.

2. The prize value of up to £250 applies to accommodation only – no cash alternatives or substitutions will be offered.

Insurance, ferry supplements and other miscellaneous costs are not included. 3. The prize value of £250 is valid for one booking and cannot be split to cover numerous bookings. No change will be given. 4. Holiday prize is not transferable. 5.

Standard booking conditions apply as outlined on the cottages4you website. 6. Discount is subject to availability, applies to new bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount does not apply to any extras including insurance and ferry supplements. Cottages4you booking terms and conditions apply.

The University

Gift Shop Round Crystal Paperweight Coventry University's book

Cuff Links Mini Cut Vase

Satin Notepad and Mirror Tankard

Business Card Case

Mini Bears Champagne Flutes

Remember your student days with pride and buy special souvenirs branded with the University name or logo.

It’s now even easier to choose from our selection of high quality goods by shopping online:

www.coventry.ac.uk/onlinestore If you wish to make purchases by mail order please contact Jackie Walsh, Alan Berry Reception, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry CV1 5FB. Telephone 024 7688 8774 or e-mail jackie.walsh@coventry.ac.uk for further details.

Please note: refunds are only available where goods are faulty, statutory legal rights are not affected. Goods will be delivered within 21 days of receipt of order. If you are not fully satisfied, goods may be returned within seven days for a full refund. Prices are valid until March 2010.