Headway 18

Summer 2007 Alumni Association Magazine Issue 18

Welcome

headway - Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Association Magazine

Reunion

Institute to Southampton Solent University, enabling us to award our own degrees.

Keep us updated with your contact details and career information. We are always looking for alumni to feature in this magazine so do get in touch. Either complete and return the carrier sheet enclosed with this issue or update us online at www.solent.ac.uk.

I hope you enjoy this issue.

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elcome to the eighteenth issue of headway, the magazine of Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Association.

This is another exciting edition of headway, and as is always the case, it is hard to fit all of your news into each addition. As usual, our alumni are making a name for themselves, and it doesn’t get much better than for Neil Pinkawa, who worked on the recent James Bond epic, Casino Royale. In front of the camera, Richard Curtis shows us how to train dogs to dance – things have moved on since the days of Barbara Woodhouse!

Our current students are also at the forefront of the media, namely the University yachting team who have become world champions yet again. That’s in addition to Ali Lalani and Katie Miller, who are making their mark in the sports of boccia and sailing respectively.

Saturday, 13 October 2007 Southampton Solent University

Alumni Association

How to contact the Alumni office Send your news, views, queries and comments to:

Closer to home, Anna Boterhoek is using her skills and expertise to show how Southampton is a city for innovation in her role at Business Southampton. Meanwhile, digital artist, Chris Walker, is giving his perspective on the city’s landscape by creating stunning remastered montages for the City Council and local businesses.

The Alumni Office Southampton Solent University East Park Terrace Southampton SO14 0RB UK

You may be particularly interested to know about Graduate Jobs Southampton, a new project working with local employers to help graduates forge their careers in the city.

Visit: www.graduatejobsouthampton.co.uk to find out how you can get involved and better your career prospects.

F. +44(0) 23 8033 4161

You will also notice a major change for the University which takes place this summer.

Professor Roger Brown is stepping down from his post as Vice-Chancellor to be replaced by our current deputy, Professor Van Gore. It is Professor Brown who led the journey which took us from Southampton

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Julia Fitzpatrick PR and Alumni Officer

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Yacht and Powercraft/Small Craft Design Reunion

T. +44(0) 23 8031 9038/9042

E. alumni@solent.ac.uk W. www.solent.ac.uk/alumni Editor: Julia Fitzpatrick, with thanks to Chloe Balharry and Jenny Dashley Design: Southampton Solent University Marketing and Communications Service Printed by: Cedar Colour Ltd Front cover: Graduation 2006

Graduates and staff from the Yacht Design and Manufacturing degree courses are invited to a reunion on Saturday, 13 October 2007. This date coincides with the RINA 'Modern Yacht' Conference (also being held at Southampton Solent University on Thursday, 11 and Friday, 12 October 2007). For more information about the reunion and/or conference, please e-mail your details (name, course studied, year of graduation and contact address) to: giles.barkley@solent.ac.uk The Alumni Office is always willing to publicise your forthcoming reunions and events. E-mail the details to: alumni@solent.ac.uk or telephone 023 8031 9038.

Contents

headway - Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Association Magazine

closely “withI worked programmers to animate the graphics so that Daniel Craig and the other actors could interact with them, adding a ‘real life’ feel to the action...

”

Licence to thrill, page 16

Regulars

Features

2 Vice-Chancellor’s welcome

3 Shane bowled over by honorary doctorate

Professor Roger Brown’s farewell and welcome to new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Van Gore

6 University news A round up of what’s going on in and around the University

Hampshire spin bowler is recognised for his services to cricket

4 Graduation celebrations Class of 2006 graduate in style

14 Making a local impact 23 Alumni news – in brief Your news stories

26 Alumni update An update on Andrew Cooney’s latest challenge

Anna Boterhoek is promoting Southampton as a place to do business

16 Licence to thrill Neil Pinkawa works behind the scenes on the latest Bond blockbuster, Casino Royale

28 Millais Gallery Forthcoming exhibitions

29 In the news/membership news A look at the University in the media.

Plus, the Alumni Association – what’s in it for you?

30 Where are you now?

Updates, weddings and other news

18 One man and his dogs The UK’s leading dog dancer Richard Curtis and his performing pooches

20 Loch, stock and barrel Managing a Scottish marina with Jo Boddy

22 Picture perfect Chris Walker’s images of Southampton buildings

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Vice-Chancellor’s Welcome

headway - Southampton Solent University’s Alumni Magazine

development of a university does not – or at least need not – end with their graduation.

Graduates and diplomates of Southampton Solent University automatically become members of the Alumni Association on graduation. This is one way of enabling you to keep in touch with the University, but it also enables us to keep in touch with you, and in particular to learn of your successes, achievements and experiences.

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ince this is my final contribution to headway, I’d like to say something about the role – already an important one and likely to become even more so – that alumni play in a modern university.

Traditionally, once students entered a university, they became members of that university. ‘Member’ here means more than simply ‘student’. It means that, once admitted, students could play an important part in the university’s affairs. Moreover, this participation was not limited to the period in which they were actually students: they remained members for the rest of their lives.

The Regent House at the University of Cambridge to this day consists of all the Masters of Arts.

Translating this traditional model into the twenty-first century means that the role which alumni play in the functioning and

University alumni relations is very often seen in terms of fundraising. My wife, an alumnus of a longer established university, is continually getting phone calls from students asking her for money for the university. While Southampton Solent always appreciates donations, I would hope that we could count on your interest and support through other means as we try to provide at least as good an education for our current students as we did for you.

There are many ways you can help the University. Providing assistance to enable us to work with your company or organisation is one, facilitating student placements might be another. As such, these are ‘gifts in kind’ by you to us and they will be appreciated just as much as a donation.

Alumni also provide valuable role models.

Once you leave the University you effectively become an ‘ambassador’ for us. All of you, I trust, will go on to have meaningful and successful careers in your chosen professions, putting into practice the education and skills you have learnt here.

The University has appointed Professor Van Gore as its ViceChancellor when Professor Roger Brown steps down at the end of July 2007.

Professor Gore is currently Deputy ViceChancellor. Previously at Sheffield Hallam University, he joined the University (then Southampton Institute) in July 2001 as VicePrincipal, Academic. In 2003 he became Senior Vice-Principal and, when the Institute achieved University title in 2005, he was promoted to Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

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You can help spread the word about the good work we do and the value that we have added to your lives, and to which you have in turn added by your subsequent accomplishments.

When I leave here at the end of July I shall have been Principal/Vice-Chancellor for more than nine years. A fair proportion of you will have studied here during that time. I am immensely proud of you and what you have achieved.

Finally, I would like to wish my successor as Vice-Chancellor, Professor Van Gore, every best wish for the future, confident in the knowledge that we have put in place a firm base for him to lead the University through its next exciting phase of development.

Professor Roger Brown

Moving on up

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I believe that Solent graduates have distinctive qualities which make them highly employable, carving out niches in parts of the economy where there is very strong growth: the arts, design and media; business and law; computing and technology; maritime and environment; sport and tourism; and the social sciences. In fact, our strong ties with industry and commerce, together with the development of a distinctive range of courses, are helping us to become a university that is well in tune with the needs of the twenty-first century.

Professor Glyn Tonge, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Governors, comments: “I am extremely pleased that Professor Gore will be our new ViceChancellor. He has played a major part in the University’s progress over the past few years and will now be leading it through the next exciting stage of its development.”

Professor Gore adds: “I am delighted to have been appointed the next Vice-Chancellor, and am looking forward to taking up my new role in August 2007. The current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Roger Brown, will be a very hard act to follow.”

Left: Professor Van Gore takes up his new role in August 2007

Shane bowled over by honorary doctorate As a University committed to sporting achievement, it was a fitting tribute to cricket legend Shane Warne when he was awarded an honorary doctorate at a unique presentation.

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he accolade was conferred at the Rose Bowl in Hampshire in a twist on the traditional university graduation ceremony, before Hampshire’s Pro 40 match against Worcestershire last September.

A procession of University high officers made their way to the boundary rope in front of the pavilion. Warne, the scourge of England’s batsmen in successive Ashes Test Series, received his degree scroll wearing customary academic dress. It was a double celebration for Warne, who was also celebrating his 37th birthday.

Speaking about receiving the prestigious title, Shane said: “I feel very privileged and honoured to get this award. The boys have been calling me professor, but they can call me anything – spin doctor or Dr Shane! It feels great and I’d like to thank the University for giving me this award.”

Considered to be the greatest spin bowler in history, Shane Warne was awarded his honorary doctorate for his services to cricket.

It recognised the Hampshire Captain’s role in promoting cricket across the County, as well as his record-breaking Test wicket haul.

Professor Glyn Tonge, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Board Governors of Southampton Solent University, said: “As arguably the greatest bowler who has ever lived, Shane Warne was highly deserving of this honorary doctorate. His sporting success is an inspiration to all, and is particularly close to our own hearts given the University’s commitment to sporting achievement. We felt it was only fitting to break with tradition and confer this degree at the Rose Bowl, the home of Hampshire cricket, in recognition of the huge contribution he has made not only to international cricket but to the success and popularity of cricket in the Hampshire region.”

Above: Professor Van Gore, Deputy ViceChancellor, reads Shane’s achievements watched by (l-r) Professor Glyn Tonge, Shane Warne, and former honorary graduates, Robin Smith and Lawrie McMenemy MBE Above: Shane felt privileged to get his award

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Graduation celebrations More than 4,000 students graduated from Southampton Solent University during the University’s annual Graduation ceremonies at Southampton Guildhall last November.

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or 2006 the ceremonies were given a hi-tech makeover, with guests at the Guildhall able to get a much closer view of the ceremony thanks to a giant five-metre wide television screen at the back of the Guildhall stage. For those unable to attend, the University provided a live daily webcast of the morning and afternoon ceremonies.

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Students graduated with degrees and professional qualifications in subjects such as computing, fashion, social work, law, business, psychology and criminology.

First-class achievements Jackie Deketelaere graduated with a first class degree in BA (Hons) Construction. Jackie is currently working for London firm, PCM, as a

Construction Project Manager in Southampton. When she started working on building sites she found herself in a man’s world – but her first class honours degree has given her firm foundations for the future.

Extreme sports fan Richard Jaehme graduated with a first class degree in BA (Hons) Outdoor Adventure Management, but he nearly didn’t

complete his studies after a free solo climbing accident. Although he spent the beginning of his third year nursing broken ankles from the fall, Richard’s insight provided him with the inspiration for his dissertation.

Richard said: “I spent the summer in a wheelchair nursing very painful injuries. But when I got back to university to start the final year of my degree course, I wanted to use my personal experience as a starting point for researching and writing a dissertation on the psychology behind extreme sports.”

Mandy Johnson, who graduated with a first class LLB (Hons) Law degree, has a bright future ahead of her. She was named best law graduate with the most impressive dissertation and is now working in conveyancing at Frettens in Christchurch, Dorset.

Roll of honour The University also presented honorary

degrees and fellowships to academics and professionals who have made an outstanding contribution in their field of work:

Business Administration for forging working links with staff and students of Southampton Solent University.

• Executive Chairman of ITV, Michael Grade CBE was made a Doctor of Business Administration for his services to business and broadcasting.

• Australian cricket legend and Hampshire County Cricket Club captain, Shane Warne, received a Master of Arts for Services to sport.

• Multi-award winning crime novelist and long-serving New Forest planner Minette Walters, was made a Doctor of Letters.

• Waqar Azmi OBE, founder of the British Federation of Racial Equality Councils and now the Government’s Chief Diversity Adviser was made a Doctor of Letters for services to diversity.

• For his services to planning, and the New Forest, Edward Johnson OBE, was made a Doctor of Science.

• Professor Chen Yuning, President of China’s Ningxia University, was made a Doctor of

• Honorary Fellowships were conferred upon David Bunce, the tailor responsible for the Queen’s robes for the jubilee celebrations and who consistently helps with the smooth running of the University’s graduation ceremonies, and Kathryn Watts, Head of Knowledge at the UK’s leading independent PR, advertising and market research company, Chime Communications.

The University presented its Community Fellowship award to Debbie King, Chairperson of Thornhill New Deal for Communities.

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University News Any Questions?

Scholars and politicians got a good grilling from a lively audience when the University hosted BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions?

Above: Model at fairtrade fashion show

Fairtrade University The University has been awarded Fairtrade University status from the Fairtrade Foundation, following 12 months of hard work by students and staff.

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he Reverend Ian Johnston, Chairman of the Southampton City Fairtrade Group, presented the University with its official certificate at a special reception.

The University had to meet numerous strict criteria to achieve the standard set by the Fairtrade Foundation. This included the creation of a Fairtrade Policy and Fairtrade Steering Group with Solent Students’ Union and other primary stakeholders. Fairtrade food and drink is now served at all meetings and is being sold across campus.

Solent Students’ Union also hosted a Fairtrade Fashion Show to raise funds for the Indian coastal village of Periyamudliar Chavadi, which was badly affected by the 2004 tsunami.

Bryan Carroll, Chair of the University’s Fairtrade Steering Group, comments: “This is a testament to the hard work and commitment of colleagues and partner organisations. It is particularly pleasing that the Foundation chose to commend our initiatives to collaborate with the local community and community groups.”

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programme in March.

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taff joined more than 250 people, including councillors, community leaders and politicians, to hear panellists answer a range of questions reflecting the issues of the day.

After a warm-up by Radio 4 and former BBC Radio Solent presenter, Peter White, the audience was keen for the legendary Dimbleby debate.

The panel was made up of scholar and historian, Professor Lisa Jardine; Liberal Democrat MP Edward Davey; now Foreign Secretary David Miliband; and Conservative MP Oliver Letwin.

In a question fitting of our ocean links, Head of Leisure, Marketing and Language School, Jenny Anderson, asked the panel who they would take on a round-the-world cruise. In an

eclectic response typical of one of the nation’s favourite radio shows, the panel’s answers ranged from Eric Morecambe to ‘the wife’.

After the show, there was a special reception where panelists met University staff and governors and representatives from the region’s business, social and political community.

Above: (l-r) Edward Davey MP, David Milliband MP, Jonathon Dimbleby, Professor Lisa Jardine and Oliver Letwin MP

The event, at The Works on the University’s East Park Terrace campus, was hailed a resounding success, by all involved.

PR extravaganza BA (Hons) PR and Communication students put their skills to the test organising a special event to celebrate the course’s fifth anniversary.

theme followed the course’s current campaign project, entitled ‘Communicating a Political Party Vision for Greening Britain’.

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The programme included talks from PR professionals from one of the world’s top PR agencies, Bell Pottinger Group, and an alumni panel discussion.

he ‘PRComms Jubilee’ celebration provided a platform for more than 100 local VIPs, PR professionals, course sponsors, academics and students (past and present) to share experiences and unite for networking and socialising.

Initiated and supported by Course Leader, Kirsty Veenhuysen, the event was run by a dedicated team of 13 final-year student volunteers. The

Kirsty commented: “The event received positive feedback from all who attended. The day was well organised and the student volunteers worked hard and coped well with the extra responsibility.”

Above: PR and Communication students and staff at the event

“

...The event received positive feedback from all who attended...

”

University News Collaboration is just the job for graduates Southampton Solent University has collaborated with the University of Southampton to improve the city’s economy and give greater employment opportunities for graduates.

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raduate Jobs Southampton has been set up to help local employers to find staff and encourage students and graduates to forge their careers in the city. It aims to retain graduates in the region by helping them find local employment with employers in small to medium sized companies.

The project is co-ordinated by the University’s careers services with professional guidance from Southampton City Council, Business Link, Southampton and Fareham Chamber of Commerce. It is supported by the Southampton Partnership using funds from SEEDA (South East England Development Agency).

A team of careers and employment experts from both universities will

match local employers to graduates for free via the website: www.graduatejobsouthampton.co.uk Jeff Walters, Economic Development Manager at Southampton City Council, comments: “Southampton has over 40,000 university students who are at some stage looking for permanent and temporary jobs in the city. This will benefit our local economy by helping to retain these highly skilled individuals in the city region who will contribute towards business growth.”

from free, targeted recruitment and raising their profile within both city universities.”

For further information about the project, please contact: meredith.pollock@solent.ac.uk or call 023 8031 9734.

Meredith Pollock, Graduate Retention Project Officer, comments: “This project is a great way for graduates to bring their knowledge and enthusiasm to graduate level positions with local employers. The employers benefit

“

...a great way for graduates to bring their knowledge and enthusiasm to graduate level positions...

”

Praise for fair and equal University Southampton Solent University won the Disability Equality Achievement award in the Public Services category at the Disabled People’s Business and Community Awards.

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he University has been honoured at a special award ceremony at the Hampshire Rose Bowl, hosted by TV news presenter, Debbie Thrower. The University was given the award in recognition of its imaginative response to many complex barriers. It was commended for providing workable solutions around the physical environment, emotional and academic support needs to ensure that disabled students and staff have a fair, equal and successful experience of life at university.

The event was organised by the Southampton Centre for Independent Living (SCIL) to recognise

organisations in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that continually strive to provide an inclusive service to disabled people.

Southampton Solent University has the most diverse student population of any university in the South. 8% of its 6,000 student population are disabled students and during 2006/7 the University expects to be supporting 750 disabled learners. It also has over 1,000 staff from diverse backgrounds, including more than 2% disabled staff.

Phil Gibson, Head of Support, Learning and Information Service, at Southampton Solent University said: “We are delighted with the award

which reflects the University’s commitment to inclusiveness.”

SCIL Chief Executive, Ian Loynes, said: “This event was all about challenging exclusion and showcasing those organisations which are choosing to include disabled people. It’s important that other companies follow the examples of our winners.”

Above: (l-r) Phil Gibson; Polly Osborne, Study Assistance Manager; Sadia Abbass, Students’ Union Equal Opportunities Officer; Andrea Peoples, Disability Coordinator; and Jeanne Gordon, Equal Opportunities Manager

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University News Mixed results for alumni teams This year’s Paul Johnstone Memorial Alumni Sports Day, which pits Old Boys (and Girls) against current University students in rugby, hockey and netball, was yet another great success.

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he annual event, now in its 13th year, was set up in memory of Paul Johnstone, a student and member of the rugby club, who lost a brave battle against cancer after graduating in 1994.

This year’s main event, the rugby match, was one of the closest ever played. In a nail-biting finish, the students kicked one more penalty than the Old Boys to retain the title with a final score of 15-12.

The student team was led onto the pitch by captain Mark Brookes and off

by Steve Spencer. Both teams played some really good flowing rugby, but

the Old Boys, led by captain for the day, Tim Holgate, were pipped to the post for the second year in a row.

The result was very much the icing on the cake for the student team, which has had a really strong year, coming second in its BUSA league and winning the Gales Hampshire Plate, last won by a University side in 1998.

The other results on the day were better for the Old Boys and Girls, who won both the netball and hockey. As always, the day finished with a BBQ, beers and some quiet social drinking in Southampton’s infamous KAOS club.

Watersports Centre wows Warsash One of Britain’s leading naval architects, Nigel Gee, opened a new purpose-built building named in his honour in May. The building at Warsash houses the University’s new Watersports Centre.

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he Watersports Centre, which is Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and British Canoe Union (BCU) recognised, delivers practical courses in dinghy and keelboat sailing, powerboating and kayaking. In addition, it offers RYA theory courses in Navigation, First Aid and VHF radio.

The wide range of courses, from beginner up to Instructor levels, are

available to students and the general public.

Honorary graduate, Nigel, commented: “The availability of firstclass watersports facilities is fundamental to the University’s undoubted success in leading the world in maritime vocational degree courses.”

Toby Fletcher, Watersports Centre Manager, added, “This new facility will greatly enhance our already strong reputation in the provision of water sports and is widely regarded as a prime asset to the University.”

For further information, or to book on any of the courses listed, please e-mail: watersports@solent.ac.uk or call the Centre on 01489 556 298.

Above: Nigel Gee (left) is thanked by Professor Roger Brown (right) for opening the new watersports centre

University News

University retains yachting title

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he University’s yachting team produced an outstanding performance to win the 2007 British Universities Sailing Association (BUSA) Yachting National Championship.

They successfully defended their national title after an exciting and challenging week of racing on the Solent. By winning the final race of the competition, it ensured that the University was crowned national champions for the sixth time in eight years.

The team, helmed by Ian Turnbull and crewed by Chris Evans, Nick Houchin, Shane Hughes, Sam Pearson, Sarah White, Laura Newnham and Mark Bartlett, will now represent the UK at the Student Yachting World Cup later this year.

Sporting stars go for gold

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orld University Games Two Southampton Solent students have been selected to represent Great Britain at the World University Games 2007.

Footballer Andre Foster, final-year BA (Hons) Football Studies, and diver Gary Hunt, first-year BA (Hons) Criminology, will join athletes and officials from over 200 nations at the summer event in Bangkok.

Ali bowls them over 2008 Paralympic hopeful, Ali Lalani, is one step closer to realising his dream, after helping his team secure gold in the World Boccia Cup in Vancouver.

Ali, a second-year HND Leisure

Thirty-one teams, representing universities from all over Great Britain, battled it out over four days of racing.

Team Solent dominated the competition from early on, with both student teams getting first and second in race one. Overall, the team secured four first place finishes and two seconds, which is considered to be the best ever performance at a national championship.

Director of Sport Solent, Phil Green, comments: “The sailing team has once again done the University proud. It is a tribute to the dedication and selfdiscipline of the students. We have now established a considerable reputation in this university sporting sector, and look forward to having another crack at the World Championships later this year.”

Management student, was placed sixth individually to become the highest ranking Briton in the 2006 World Boccia Championships in Brazil. He also holds a silver medal from this year’s British Open and a team silver from the 2005 European Championships.

Howzat for success Team Solent’s men’s cricket team completed their most successful season yet.

This year, the team finished as runnersup in the BUSA (British Universities Sporting Association) Premier League B (South), which qualified them for a promotional play-off match at Bradford/Leeds MCCU, The play-off match, held at the Yorkshire Academy ground, saw the University lose by five wickets against a side that contained several contracted first-class cricketers.

Above: The team produced an outstanding performance to claim the trophy

“

...The sailing team has once again done the University proud. It is a tribute to the dedication and selfdiscipline of the students...

”

Katie (left) was presented with her award by Dee Caffari

On the crest of a wave BEng (Hons) Yacht Manufacturing and Surveying student Katie Miller has been named Young Sailor of the Year, after completing a singlehanded circumnavigation of the UK.

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he 19-year-old embarked on her courageous three-month voyage during her gap year.

The eastabout solo voyage, in her boat, Elektra, raised more than £7,000 for the Ellen MacArthur Trust, which helps children with cancer to experience the joys of sailing.

Her voyage mirrored Ellen’s achievement, and was recognised through the Raymarine Young sailor of the Year award, following nominations by the public, as well as Royal Yachting Association affiliated clubs.

Katie was presented with her prestigious trophy by Hampshire yachtswoman Dee Caffari. She follows in the footsteps of previous winners: world class yachtswoman, Ellen MacArthur, and Olympic Gold medalist, Ben Ainslie OBE – who both went on to win the Yachtsman of the Year title.

Katie said: "I’m so honoured to win the award, and follow in the footsteps of such inspiring people.”

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University News Global policies on the agenda Sixty delegates from all over the world examined the link between research and teaching during a lively conference organised by the University.

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n international colloquium ‘International Policies and Practices for Academic Enquiry’, organised by the UK Research and Teaching Forum, was held at Marwell Conference Centre in Winchester, 19-21 April 2007.

University staff joined academics and policy makers from countries including New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, Australia, Hungary and the USA. The aim was to develop a better understanding of the HE policies and practices we should adopt to ensure that the integration of research and teaching leads to better student learning, better staff scholarship and more effective external engagement.

The event, which highlighted the University’s Advanced Scholarship Strategy, included talks by Professor

Stephen Rowland (UCL), Professor Paul Ramsden (Higher Education Academy) and Professor Theda Skocpol (Harvard).

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Roger Brown, concluded the event with an instructive and lively plenary session.

As well as being sponsored by the University, the Colloquium was supported by the Higher Education Academy; the Economic and Social Research Council; the Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning; and the University of Southampton.

Professor Roger Brown, ViceChancellor comments: “This was the second successful international conference to be held on this important subject in Southampton.

The conference was a considerable coup for the Higher Education

Academy and for the two universities in Southampton.”

More information about the Colloquium, together with conference papers and videos, is available at www.solent.ac.uk/rtconference

Above: Delegates from around the world attended the colloquium

Psychology students in fantastic frame of mind Southampton Solent University’s Psychology course raised its international profile with attendance at one of the world’s most prestigious Psychology conferences in Wasington DC. David Corcoran, Lecturer in Psychology, and two of his students, Samantha Neil and Laura Spencer, presented their work at the Association for the Psychological Science's Annual Convention in Washington DC in May. This was the first time the University had attended the international conference and it was thanks to the dedication of David. He says: “I started working at Solent in September 2006 and this was something I wanted to push from the start. I encouraged my students to get involved, with the aim of getting their work published and presented at conferences.

David presented his work on autism,

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“

…I encouraged my students to get involved, with the aim of getting their work published and presented…

”

while the students presented the work they recently showcased at the British Psychological Society SMG (Student Members Group) Annual Conference in York.

Earlier in the year, Samantha and Laura, along with fellow Level 3 BSc (Hons) Psychology students Amy Guyott and Krushma Hathi had attended the conference in York, the largest of its kind in the UK. They presented their final year projects in

poster format on display boards to great acclaim.

“It’s good for the University as it was a huge international showcase,” explains David. “The students benefit as they get the accolade of presenting at the conference, which they can put on their CV.”

Above: David, Amy, Krushma, Laura and Samantha

Degree Shows 2007

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s the 2006-07 academic year drew to a close, the University’s final year students were in a flurry of activity exhibiting their degree projects in a series of showcases. Proud parents, peers and potential employers flocked to the shows, including the flamboyant Fashion Degree show at Southampton Guildhall, Technology

Degree Show in the University’s Herbert Collins building, Fine Art/Fine Art Media/Illustration show at the University’s Millais Gallery and ‘Memories from Ordinary Moments’ – a BA (Hons) Photography exhibition, also at the University’s Millais Gallery. Professor Roger Brown, ViceChancellor said, “The degree shows

represented a celebration of final year project work from a wide range of students across all three faculties. The quality of the work and ideas on show was extremely high and a credit to students and staff.”

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Sea change at Warsash The University’s Warsash Maritime Academy (WMA) was presented with its new colours by University Chancellor, Admiral the Lord West of Spithead, at a special waterside ceremony last Autumn.

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he ceremony also marked the change of name from ‘Warsash Maritime Centre’ to ‘Warsash Maritime Academy’, and in doing so, recognised the Academy’s status as a place of international renown for its high standards of maritime education and training.

Following speeches from Vice-Chancellor Professor Roger Brown, and John Millican, Director of WMA, Admiral the Lord West of Spithead made the official Presentation of Colours. The colours were unveiled to an audience of dignitaries, industry professionals and WMA staff by two WMA cadets.

In his speech, Admiral the Lord West of Spithead spoke about the significance of the change of name: “With the UK industry’s move towards degree-based cadet training programmes, Warsash Maritime Academy is well placed to

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embrace this initiative to increase standards and attract high quality young people into the industry.”

The new colours were designed to bring together the University’s new corporate identity with Warsash tradition, and in particular the standard, which is carried by the Warsash dragon.

John Millican, Director of WMA, explains why the name Warsash Maritime Academy was chosen: “The term ‘Maritime Academy’ is internationally recognised and respected and that is important when an increasing part of our business comes from overseas. The change of name has also given the Academy the opportunity to reinforce the expertise and innovative approach to training and the values of professionalism for which it is renowned.”

Buoyant future for new Officer Cadets The next generation of seafarers celebrated their Passing Out in a spectacular ceremony at Southampton Guildhall in June.

Sixty-three Deck, Marine Engineer and Electro-Technical Officer Cadets from Warsash Maritime Academy celebrated their graduation to fully qualified Officer Cadets.

The Cadets will go on to careers in worldwide shipping, working for some of the most prestigious employers in the cruise, container ship and oil industries.

With the booming British shipping industry earning more than £1.3 million an hour, and Southampton’s own cruise industry generating more than £300 million per year for the

local economy, the cadets are looking at a buoyant future.

This was highlighted by top employers Carnival UK, Hapag Lloyd, Maersk Marine Services, Shell Ship Management and BP, who were all represented at the Passing Out ceremony.

Head of Maritime Training and Consultancy, Bob Joughin, told cadets: “Many of you will be taking charge of your own watches as certificated officers.

“It will be an exciting and challenging time. I can guarantee that whatever else you do with your lives you won’t regret the time that you spend in a seagoing career.”

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Making a local impact Alumnus Anna Boterhoek has played a key role in launching Business Southampton, a groundbreaking new project designed to promote the city of Southampton as the perfect place to do business.

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aving always lived in Southampton and with an affinity for her local area, working on a city project was the ideal role for Anna. After graduating with a BA (Hons) in Corporate Communication in 2002, she landed a job as a support officer for another local project, the Southampton Partnership. The aim of the Partnership is to implement Southampton’s Community Strategy, which sets out a shared vision for the future of the city by promoting and improving economic, social and environmental well-being.

Through her work on this project, Anna became familiar with the city’s key decision makers; putting her in good stead for her current role at Business Southampton.

Anna’s role as City Image Manager is key to Business Southampton’s development and promotion of the city.

City Image, the main project within her remit, involves an ‘innovation audit’ which asks local companies to declare any creative and ground-breaking work they are involved with. “ There are hundreds of innovations within the city and Business Southampton wants to promote them,” Anna remarks.

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...Southampton is the UK’s “leading vehicle-handling and principal cruise port contributing millions to our economy...

”

vehicle for enabling Southampton Solent University to work with other organisations to progress the development of the city in a way that benefits everyone at the University,” comments Professor Brown.

The Board Members give professional advice on issues happening in Southampton and help steer Business Southampton in the right direction.

They also promote Business Southampton to other organisations – many of which have joined the initiative and help to raise the profile of the city.

Some of Anna’s other projects include developing the Southampton Portal ‘Discover Southampton’ (www.discoversouthampton.co.uk), which brings all the information about the city into one centralised website, and ‘Sea City’, an annual celebration promoting Southampton’s connection to the sea. “ Southampton is the UK’s leading vehicle-handling and cruise port contributing millions to our economy,” she says.

Business Southampton is well regarded locally, as evidenced by the 50 organisations that lend their support to the project as City Champions. Southampton Solent University is one of the organisations involved, with Vice-Chancellor Professor Roger Brown sitting on the Board, and Dr Keith Johnson, Pro ViceChancellor, External Development, on the ‘City Image’ steering group.

“It is nice to be working with Southampton Solent University after I had such a good experience as a student there. I have also been getting students involved with our work,” Anna reflects.

Such is Anna’s love for Southampton that she sees herself living and developing her career in the local area for the foreseeable future. She lives with her fiancé Rob Hales (BA (Hons) Graphic Design, 2004), so aside from her work commitments she also has a wedding to plan! She relishes the challenges of working for Business Southampton, and hopes to see her career grow in line with the project’s vision and success.

For more information on Business Southampton visit: www.businesssouthampton.com Far left: Anna Boterhoek Images: Southampton has many strengths which Anna is promoting, such as its port (middle) and a place to do business, the Civic Centre (above).

Inset: the launch of 'Sea City'.

“Business Southampton is an excellent

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All images: Copyright 2006 Danjaq, LLC and United Ar Corporation, Sony Pictures and EON Productions. All R Reserved.

d Artists All Rights

A licence to kill? Maybe not.

But alumnus Neil Pinkawa was given licence to show off his skills when he took on the role of Lead Screen Graphics Designer for the latest James Bond blockbuster, Casino Royale.

Licence to thrill G

oing freelance might not appear as risky as facing down evil megalomaniacs intent on world domination, but it’s nevertheless a daunting and potentially dicey decision to make.

After graduating from BA (Hons) Graphic Image Making in 2005, Neil was only a week into full-time employment as a studio photographer when he was contacted by a company asking if he’d like a three-week freelance contract.

It was during this placement that Neil met a Creative Director who showed interest in his work. “I was asked whether I would be interested in working on the sci-fi film DOOM – it appeared that my risk had paid off!” he reveals.

Working with just one other designer, Neil spent six months creating the film’s 3.5-minute 3D title sequence.

Not all DOOM and gloom “Once the DOOM project was complete, the company opened up a vacancy and employed me full time.” Films do not come along every day, and for the following six months Neil worked as a Graphic Designer on projects for Blue Chip clients such as British Airways, BP, and Tesco.

When the company took on the Casino Royale project, Neil was given the role of Lead Screen Graphics Designer. Over the next 10 months he created more than 75 graphics for use within the film on computer screens, mobile phones and plasma screens. “I worked closely with programmers in order to animate the graphics so that Daniel Craig and other actors and actresses could interact with them, adding a ‘real life’ feel to the action,” Neil explains.

Following briefs from the film’s art department, production team and director, Neil carefully researched each screen to

...With the Bond franchise “being so popular, everything had to be spot on... ”

ensure that his graphics were as believable as possible, while still maintaining what he describes as “that Bond fantasy element”! Once the screen was designed and signed off it was animated ready for programming and delivery on set.

Just like James Bond, however, there was no room for mistakes: “With the Bond franchise being the most popular and longest running film franchises of all time, everything had to be spot on,” says Neil. “Fans look for continuity errors, so details such as terrorist reports could not include made-up text; even though it may only appear on screen for as little as a second, people still pause their DVD and look for mistakes.”

Live and let design The experience of working on the Bond film confirmed Neil’s love of design. What’s more, there are some great perks for the silver screen-savvy designer: “To say that I have been to the cast and crew-only premier of such a large-scale film, seen my work on the screen in Leicester Square, and worked alongside such famous and well known people tops it off for me!” reveals Neil.

After working on Casino Royale, Neil spent six months as a designer for IBM. He has now moved further up the design hierarchy to the position of Senior Designer with a surreybased company called Universal Pixel. His advice to other fearful freelancers is: “take risks and go out and look for work – without thinking it will come to you!”

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One man and his dogs Charismatic canine expert, Richard Curtis, does more than teach old dogs new tricks. His performing pooches would give any Fred or Ginger a run for their money – as human handlers across the world are beginning to discover! nine years old. Richard took Nicky to a local obedience class before competing in showing and handling classes in Hampshire’s dog shows.

He soon acquired a second dog, Toby. “I became interested in teaching obedience, so at 15 I went on a course with renowned trainer, Roy Hunter, who taught me kind and fair handling.

“He introduced me to other dog sports. I borrowed dogs to train, read every book I could and attended every course I could. I finally got a collie to move me up in competitions,” said Richard.

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A (Hons) Business Administration alumnus of 2003, Richard, is the UK’s leading dog dancer. His 2006 Crufts’ title, with ‘dancing dog’ Disco, was the culmination of a year that saw him extend his exuberant approach to obedience across the globe.

He’s now one of television’s top dog training personalities, dealing with problem pooches in Channel 4’s It’s me or the dog and giving expert commentary and demonstrations at Crufts. But his style is a far cry from the stern, tweed-clad 1970s dog training television star, Barbara Woodhouse.

“Owners are more likely to develop a good relationship with their dogs if they are enjoying themselves. Although there has always been a big dog agility scene, performing musical routines to foster dog obedience is relatively new.

But its growing popularity is staggering and I’m really pleased to be at the forefront of it,” said Richard.

Richard competes in and instructs dog dancing – or canine freestyle all over the world and has published several bestselling books on the subject.

It’s a far cry from Richard’s early days with West Highland terrier, Nicky, bought for him by his parents when he was

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After setting up a mobile dog grooming service, Richard decided to build up his business skills with a BA (Hons) Business Administration degree at Southampton Solent University.

“As a dog groomer and trainer I probably had quite an unusual life compared to most business students,” said Richard. “I started Dog Dancing when my collie, Sybil, started to play up in the obedience ring.”

Richard became hooked on dog dancing and now, with his new dog, Jazz, he performs flamboyant, humorous and pawperfect routines. But it’s his work with Joe (and Fido) Public which gives him most satisfaction. “Any dog, of any age, with any handler can get involved in Dog Dancing. It’s great for bonding and training, but most of all it is hugely enjoyable. I’ve seen dogs with behavioural problems improve dramatically when they learn to dance. It may appear like a new trick – but it relies on an old philosophy – that learning should be fun,” said Richard.

Top left:Yap happy: Richard with his team of dancing dogs Main picture: Step two three paw! Richard and his performing pooch

...As a dog groomer and “trainer I probably had quite an unusual life compared to most business students...

�

Loch, stock and barrel Jo Boddy is putting the knowledge and experience gained from her first-class BA (Hons) Maritime Leisure Management degree to good use as Manager of an exclusive marina on the shores of beautiful Loch Lomond in Scotland.

J

o applied for the post of Marina Manager purely on the off chance that she might get an interview – “Scotland seemed a bit far away from Ascot!” she reveals. Needless to say, both her application and subsequent visit to Scotland were a complete success – not only did she fall in love with the area, she was also offered the career opportunity of a lifetime.

The marina is part of De Vere Hotel group’s Cameron House, a luxurious eighteenth century mansion positioned on the shores of the Loch. “This is De Vere’s only marina, so there is little specialist knowledge within the company,” reveals Jo. “They know the figures very well but not the market as a whole, so I find visiting marina conferences very useful as I get to speak with others about the business.”

The Cameron House Marina team is just 10-strong, with

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responsibility for selling approximately 220 berths, as well as taking guests for trips on the hotel’s luxury motor yacht. “My main responsibility is staff management and the day-to-day running of the marina,” remarks Jo. “I also have to manage the budget which involves forecasting and knowing exactly what we have made (or lost) on a weekly basis.” Jo’s moneymanagement skills come into particular use in the annual berth sales: “Every year we have to reconsider the pricing structure which involves a look at the industry as a whole and what other local marinas are doing,” she explains.

Making waves Since Loch Lomond is land locked, berth holders at the marina form a sort of members club. “They often use their boats more as floating caravans than as transport, so I’ve tried to improve the social scene in the marina,” says Jo. This has involved organising monthly ‘sail-in-company’ events, where a National Park Ranger is invited to give a briefing about a topical subject (anything from anchoring and ropes to GPS and ‘rules of the road’) before the whole group is

...Members often use their “boats more as floating caravans than as transport... taken out for a cruise on the loch. “This gives the less experienced boaters a chance to try new things with supervision, and many of them have already grown in confidence,” comments Jo.

”

As well as creating a burgeoning social scene, Jo is keen to improve the services on offer to members. She has worked hard to forge good relationships with the Park Authority rangers as well as other activity providers, including Zapcats and the Royal Yachting Association training provider, Proform Marine. “Since we do not have a chandlery of our own I have formed a close relationship with JF Marine, the company that provides all our marina maintenance and salvage services, and from which we can order specialist parts for our members.

The forecast looks bright for both Jo and her job. De Vere Hotels is planning a multi-million-pound investment in Cameron House, including an overhaul and expansion of the marina. “It is still in the infancy of the planning stages

but it’s very exciting!” says Jo. Meanwhile, Jo is planning a little self-improvement of her own. In the near future she hopes to undertake an Intermediate Marina Manager course and continue onto the advanced level to become officially ‘qualified’. We wish her every success.

Inset: Jo Boddy Main picture: Taking to the waters of Loch Lomond

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Picture perfect BA (Hons) Fine Art graduate of 2005, Chris Walker was recently commissioned to provide a number of cutting-edge masterpieces for the Southampton Offices of international accountants, Deloitte.

C

hris photographs landmark buildings and less well known areas and creates striking photographic collages of digitally re-mastered images. His stunning montages of Southampton buildings take up to three months to compile and have been used for Southampton City Council's promotional work.

Chris started off as a painter, but gradually moved over to

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...I can use the same “building twice and make it look completely different...

”

his current work. “I like the way I can manipulate the images,” he says, “I can use the same building twice and make it look completely different.”

Chris’ other freelance projects include supplying images for the website of Fairtrade coffee company, Mozzo, co-founded by another Southampton Solent alumnus, BA (Hons) Business Management graduate, Grant Lang.

Chris’s work has been exhibited at the Bargate Monument Gallery in Southampton and will soon feature in solo shows in local galleries and in London.

Chris’s dramatic re-imaging of Southampton’s skyline now greets visitors to the Deloitte office in the centre of the city.

The company’s Business Development Manager Simon Miles explained: “We wanted something distinctive and unique that reflected the local area and our brand. One of our key brand identities is innovation and we thought Chris’s work was exactly that.”

Alumni News – in brief Lisa’s legacy lives on The Lisa Wilson Scholarship Fund, a charity dedicated to providing 100 years of education by helping students with the cost of higher education, is an integral part of the student support system of Southampton Solent University.

demonstrate why they need extra financial help with their studies. To date, 18 students have benefited from the bursaries and the fund currently stands at just over £110,000 thanks to the tireless hard work and fundraising efforts of the Wilson family.

At a moving presentation the eight new students receiving the award were officially presented with their bursaries by Mr and Mrs Wilson. The Wilson family showed a pictorial tribute called ‘Lisa’s Dream’ to give the recipients an insight to what Lisa was like as a person and help them to understand the importance of the scholarship.

A first for Charlotte

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he Fund was set up by the Wilson family in memory of their daughter, and University graduate, Lisa, who died in a car crash in Australia in 2002.

The award, which takes the form of a bursary (up to a maximum of £1,000 per year), is renewed annually and is available to students who have overcome adversity or can

A proud and special moment for the Scholarship arrived when Charlotte Field, one of the Fund’s first recipients, graduated with a first class BA (Hons) Marketing with Media and Design degree in 2006.

Above: Charlotte and Max, with Clive and Trisha Wilson

from the Fund in each of the three years of her studies, and kept in touch with the Wilson family throughout.

The money enabled her to buy equipment to help with her dyslexia, as well as providing financial support.

“Studying for the degree has changed my life for the better,” said Charlotte.

“Without the Fund I would have found it very hard to cope financially.”

For more information about Lisa and the charity visit: www.lisathedaddy.com

At the age of 22, and a single mother of six-month-old Max, Charlotte decided to return to study and hasn’t looked back. She received a bursary

“

...Studying for the degree has changed my life for the better...

”

From bedroom to boardroom Determined Rhys Williams’s PR business, which he set up from his bedroom less than three years ago, has been named one of the hottest 100 start-up companies in Wales.

A

fter graduating with a 2:1 in Business Technology Management in 2000, Rhys began a career in engineering journalism on the UK’s leading London-based trade magazines. After five years he made the brave move to go it alone and return to Wales to start Pulse-PR. Not having a pot of money to fall back on, he moved back in with his parents in Mid Glamorgan and initially used his bedroom as an office.

“Notoriously, over 90 percent of businesses fail in the first 12 months, so when I started Pulse-PR my

ambitions were grounded, concentrating on survival with hopes of a marginal profit.” But Rhys’ company grew rapidly. From providing a simple journalistic service in year one, Pulse-PR services now range from press releases, newsletters and brochures to launches, advertising, graphic design and branding. The company now has an impressive portfolio of multi-national manufacturing clients.

It’s hardly surprising that Pulse-PR has been listed in the Western Mail’s hottest 100 companies in Wales. As year three begins, Pulse-PR has moved

office, become a limited company and is currently seeking its first full time employees. With a predicted turnover of £250,000 for 2007, it’s come a long way from its humble beginnings.

Above: Rhys at work in his new office

“Ambitions continually change, two years ago I wouldn’t have dreamed of this success. Now, the plan is to continue building the business at a gradual pace. Looking forward, I am realistically projecting a £1m turnover within five years.”

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Alumni News – in brief

Novel idea BA (Hons) Media with Cultural Studies graduate of 2002, Tom Dearden, has published a quirky tale that gives new meaning to the phrase ‘dying on stage’.

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om – who graduated with a 2:1 before studying for a Masters degree in Creative Writing at Manchester – started writing the story in between completing assignments. “ ‘The Doctor Bumfleece Experiment’ is a black comedy about a band of four terminally ill lads. While ignoring MTV, and challenging social issues, they see the world through the eyes of the dying – and the band goes platinum,” explained Tom. Five years on, Tom is experiencing the joy of having his novel self-published. The book, which is hosted by Lulu Publishing, and sold online, is gaining popularity. It has also sparked

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...I intend to write a novel in “November for National Novel Writing Month... ” interest in tenacious Tom’s travel writing, short stories and photography.

Tom is now working on a sketch show that he hopes will be picked up by the BBC. “I’ve a couple of ideas for northern sitcoms, I intend to write a novel in November for National Novel Writing Month and I’m hoping to get on the sports, travel or music desk at one of the national newspapers,” said Tom. If all that sounds horrendously exhausting, you have to remember that Tom spent years getting into the heads of four fictional characters who had an imminent expiry date.

Perhaps, more than most, he has grasped the concept that ‘life is short’.

Alumni News – in brief Radio therapy Thanks to the help and inspiration of his sister, alumnus Tim Saunders has launched the UK’s first online radio station dedicated to the interests and entertainment of “everybody with a disability”.

M

y sister, Rebecca, has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and her strength and will to survive has always inspired me,” explains BA (Hons) Business and Law graduate of 1999, Tim. The siblings knew that there was a gap in the broadcast market that needed filling and it wasn’t long before they reached a natural conclusion: “There are radio stations for every minority you care to think of. So why not those with disabilities?” he asks.

The first step was to get some space on the airwaves, but their plans for a traditional analogue radio station were thwarted when Ofcom, the regulator for the UK communications industries, informed the duo that the airwaves were simply too crowded.

The Internet was decided as the next best medium – Rebecca came up a memorable and catchy name, and so radio-therapy.co.uk was born.

Fine-tuning Together, Rebecca and Tim have created the first radio station of its kind, broadcast entirely over the Internet and aimed at covering subjects that inspire and interest the disabled community, from travel and art to competitions and useful gadgets. “We try to provide relevant content to our audience, focusing on issues that are important to them, such as the disabled person’s railcard.

We also have some exciting competition in conjunction with Easyjet, Canon and Cameron Mackintosh,” reveals Tim. This is a part-time venture for Tim and Rebecca, who are the station’s only staff. Tim splits his time between radio-therapy and his freelance writing and journalism work – he has published three books on local history – and they have both had to learn web design skills while also contacting potential advertisers. What does Tim enjoy most about this project?

“Providing useful information to our target audience and being a forum to air their views,” he says. “It’s a great place to forge new friendships and learn about particular disabilities and how different people cope.” Find out more by visiting : www.radio-therapy.co.uk

“

...We try to provide relevant content to our audience, focusing on issues that are important to them...

”

Above left: Tim and his sister Rebecca

Sailing solo around Britain

A

s headway goes to print, we are following the progress of disabled sailor, Geoff Holt, who is currently sailing single-handed around the coast of Great Britain in his specially-designed Challenger trimaran dinghy. Described as the ‘Everest of sailing’ for disabled people, the BA (Hons) Fine Arts Valuation Studies graduate of 2002 is hoping to complete the 1,500 miles at sea in his 15ft dinghy. You can follow his progress at www.personaleverest.com and read about how he gets on in the next edition of headway.

Right: Geoff, who is currently sailing around Great Britain

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Alumni Update

From South to North Andrew Cooney's set to break another world record!

C

ast your mind back to headway, issue 13, in 2003, and you may remember reading about Captain Andrew Cooney, who had just acquired a place in the Guinness Book of Records for being the youngest person to walk to the South Pole. Now he’s decided to go one step further by walking to the North Pole in March 2008 – and when he reaches it, he will become the youngest person to walk to both poles.

“With the North Pole 08 Expedition, I want to demonstrate to people across the globe that achievement is not what people expect of you, it’s about having a dream or a goal and achieving it despite setback and adversity,” remarks the Maritime Leisure Management graduate of 2001.

The expedition was launched this year at the Royal Geographical Society, which was attended by its patron, HRH Prince Edward, who is fully supportive of the challenge.

Andrew will lead a team of six, who will need to be mentally prepared for severe temperatures and extreme exhaustion.

Anticipating the challenge that awaits, Andrew says: “We will walk up to 700 miles over the frozen Arctic Ocean as we travel against the flow of ice. Each team member will be dragging their own body weight in sledges behind them.”

Andrew has a busy few months ahead of him preparing for this challenge, as well as carrying out his usual work of touring the country, speaking to schools, colleges and charities to inspire people to achieve their dreams. He gave a public lecture at the University in 2003 about his South Pole challenge and hopes to return in 2008 to share his experiences once again.

If you are interested in sponsoring and/or supporting the expedition, visit www.northpole08.com. Read about how Andrew gets on in the next edition of headway.

Good luck, Andrew!

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about having a dream “or...it’s a goal and achieving it despite setback and adversity...

”

Image: Captain Andrew Cooney during his South Pole Expedition – © A Cooney 03

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Millais Gallery Forthcoming exhibitions

North + South 2 July–1 September

John Thomson Say it with Flowers 15 September–20 October

Brian McClave Aurora 3 November– 15 December

North + South explores who we think we are and what England stands for in the twenty-first century. Staged across six galleries in the northern and southern most ends of England, this unprecedented collaborative project features over 30 artists, including 15 new commissions that also comment on the English identity.

Drawing and sculpture inspired by the Oxford University Botanic Garden and Plant Sciences, Oxford University where John Thomson was artist in residence 2004–2007.

Brian McClave is the only person to have captured the Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights), on film in three dimensions. Filmed simultaneously from two lakes 20 miles apart in Lapland this is the first showing of this extraordinary film which will be shown in a specially constructed gallery within the Millais Gallery.

Above: John Thomson’s Field of Rape, mixed media, 2006

Contact the gallery If you require any further information or would like to receive details of forthcoming exhibitions, invitations to private views, gallery talks and other events at the Millais Gallery, please contact: Millais Gallery, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, Southampton SO14 0YN T. 023 8031 9916 F. 023 8033 4161 E. millais.gallery@solent.ac.uk W. http://millais.solent.ac.uk Exhibition dates and details correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change. The Millais Gallery, part of Southampton Solent University, is a city centre public art gallery committed to the exhibition of mainly contemporary visual arts which addresses issues of relevance to culturally diverse communities locally, regionally and nationally. Its dynamic programme of exhibitions and events complements the work of staff and students in art, design and media: theory, practice and cultural histories.

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millais gallery

In the news The activities and achievements of University staff, students and alumni feature regularly in the local, national, and international press. Here are some recent examples of mentions in the media: The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Express, The Sun, The Times , BBC Radio Solent, Meridian Tonight, The Southern Daily Echo, 14 September 2006 “Shane Warne received an honorary doctorate followed by a blow to the head at the Rose Bowl. The degree was awarded by Southampton Solent University for services to cricket, while the bouncer, which lodged in the grille of Warne’s helmet creating a deep gash, was delivered by Matt Mason.

Shane quipped: “Yesterday started pretty good; I became a doctor and I was going to treat myself!”

Membership news Alumni Association – what’s in it for you?

Membership of the Alumni Association is free and automatic for all graduates of Southampton Solent University, Southampton Institute, Warsash Maritime Academy (formerly College of Nautical Studies), Southampton Technical College, Southampton College of Technology, Southampton College of Art and Southampton College of Higher Education.

With a network of 28,000 members worldwide, the Association aims to maintain lifelong links with past students, promote your achievements and foster contact with old friends and colleagues.

In addition to continued links with Southampton Solent University, membership benefits include: • • • • • • • • • • •

headway – the alumni magazine News of reunions and events Continued use of the library and Sport Solent at preferential membership rates Use of the Careers Service for three years after graduating Inclusion in the online e-mail directory of graduates and/or professional networking directory Contact service which enables you to get in touch with old friends Discounts on IT training courses, postgraduate/professional study and use of conference/training facilities Free membership card Use of Students’ Union facilities Mail order service of University memorabilia Dedicated Alumni pages on the University website

Full details of our benefits can be found at www.solent.ac.uk/alumni/benefits

The Sun (web), 23 March “Adam Barton, Lecturer in Computer and Video games, tells how computer entertainment is moving from the ‘boy’s bedroom’ and becoming family entertainment.”

Vogue.co.uk, 10 April “Southampton Solent University is set to revolutionise the fashion industry by launching the first degree in styling.”

Times Educational Supplement, 4 May “Southampton Solent University launched the country’s first degree in comedy writing and performance last September. “Humour is such an important life skill,” says Chris Ritchie, the academic, author and stand-up comedian who runs the course.”

Southern Daily Echo, 30 May “Armed with a quick fire wit that shoots down everyone from exboyfriends to clipboard charity workers, Southampton Solent University student Hannah George has been crowned the Paramount Comedy on Tap Funniest Student 2007.”

Keep in touch!

Write or e-mail to tell us about your life after graduation. Whether you’re undertaking further study, travelling the world, running your own business, organising a reunion or enjoying a successful career, we’d like to hear about it.

Also, if you know of any other graduates who do not receive headway, ask them to contact us so we can ensure we have their correct details on our database.

Don’t forget to let the Alumni Office know if you change your address!

T. 023 8031 9038/9042 F. 023 8033 4161 E: alumni@solent.ac.uk

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Alumni Where are you now?

This is your chance to let everyone know where you’ve been and what you’ve been up to since graduating. To appear in the next issue, just fill in the ‘Alumni Update Form’ on the address sheet with this magazine, visit our website at www.solent.ac.uk or e-mail your update to: alumni@solent.ac.uk

1986 Mohamed El-Ghosin HND Building Studies I am now running my own private company, started last year, which has begun to make a return. I would like to return to the UK to continue my studies one day, although it’s not possible at the moment as I have three young daughters.

1992

1996 Laurie Gavaghan BA (Hons) Real Estate Valuation For the last five years I have been working in Guernsey on a social housing development project with a value of £30m. I have recently been recruited by a Dutch company, Simed International bv, to be the Project Manager for a £38m hospital project in Bangladesh.

I would be interested to hear from any of my fellow graduates. E-mail:laurie@gavaghan.net

1997 Richard Shrubb BSc (Hons) Maritime Studies I graduated with an MA in Broadcast Journalism from University College Falmouth and have rejoined my successful career as a freelance journalist in Bristol.

Beltane Jackson Diploma Fine Art (Sculpture) My triathlon in heavy copper (pictured above) is standing 8 feet high on the campus of the University of Winchester, which I created at the age of 76. I’m now 80 and working on a 2m figure in mild steel.

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Ian Porteus BA (Hons) Human Resource Management After graduating I was a ward volunteer at my local hospital, until I became registered blind in 2003. I now attend a local daycentre where I have a very active social life.

1998 Colin Oswald BA (Hons) Media with Cultural Studies I am still working for the Metropolitan Police as a Crime Analyst and have now become a Special Constable. I plan to go travelling, possibly to Venezuela.

1999 Pierra Khonje MBA Corporate Management I am currently flying for First Flight Couriers Ltd based in New Delhi, with a network covering all of India.

Sunnie Kanani BA (Hons) Fine Art Since graduating in 1999 I have pursued painting, which was my specialist area at University. Surviving as a painter is hard so I’ve supplemented this with training as a swimming instructor, qualifying in 2001. I have exhibitions in and around London and successfully sell my work. Visit: www.sunnie.co.uk Reuben Lowe BA (Hons) Social Science After graduating I gained the necessary work experience in the Mental Health field before training as a psychiatric nurse. I now work for Hampshire Partnership Trust and have specialised as a Clinical Practitioner in Substance Misuse.

2002 Craig Batty BA (Hons) Media with Cultural Studies After completing my degree I went on to do an MA in Creative Writing, during which I did a stint in the script department of Neighbours. I am still working on writing projects, but have entered the world of Solent Universiy academia. I returned to Southampton in 2004 to teach screenwriting, setting up the new BA Screenwriting course. I am now working at the

Alumni Where are you now?

University of Portsmouth, teaching the same subject, and doing a PhD. I am also co-writing a book on screenwriting which is due to be published in 2008. Hi to everyone from MWCS – and if you haven't done so already, join the Facebook group that Gerry has set up!

2003 Mkakili Fauster Ngowi LLM International Environmental Law I really enjoyed my time at Southampton Solent University, both socially and academically. My degree has enabled me to participate in various issues relating to environmental protection, both at national and international level. My plan is to rejoin Southampton Solent University to study for a PhD.

2004 Kirsty Bayliss BA (Hons) Social Science After graduating I enjoyed two and a half years working in my local library in Christchurch, Dorset. I am now (after years of deliberating) studying at the University of Wales for an MSc (Hons) in Information and Library Studies.

2005 Will Otton Bsc (Hons) Yacht Manufacturing and Surveying Since graduation I have sailed across the Atlantic three times. The company I was working for has just gone bust so I am going travelling while I look for work.

Thomas West BA (Hons) Media with Cultural Studies I’m working as a builder’s labourer and am on good money for a graduate! I’m also working on a commission for comic art which I hope will get printed in the United States. I have no plans to return to education but thanks to Craig Batty, Rosemary Mason, Seamus

Finnegan and the rest of the Faculty of Media, Arts and Society for their support during my course.

Marriage

Rozmarie Loizou BA (Hons) Fine Arts Valuation After graduating I completed a three-month internship at Sotheby’s which I really enjoyed. I was based at the Old Master, Modern and Contemporary prints department where my work mainly focused on research (on artists, prints and prices) and auction and catalogue preparations. I am now looking forward to starting my new job in administration for the Metropolitan Police in London.

2006 Terry Cornick BA (Hons) Media Writing University for me was an unrivalled experience and has enabled me to take my life to another level by starting my own business. My company is called Source One Solution and is the new sourcing arm of a company called Imega Print in Middlesex.

The overall dynamic of my media writing course was brilliant as it dealt with many different aspects that I am using in developing my company. I have many clients already and my aim is to diversify the business to become a one-stop solution for any organisation’s requests or needs.

I would love to hear from anyone who I had the privilege of knowing in Southampton but also anyone who can help me with my aims or that I can offer advice to. My e-mail is: terryc@sourceonesolution.com

Peter Jolly, BA (Hons) Marketing Design, 2000 and Hannah Bennett, BA (Hons) Criminology, 2000 In May 2006, Peter and Hannah tied the knot in Stratford-upon-Avon after nearly seven years together. Their son, Samuel (born January 2006) fulfilled the role of pageboy for the big day and two alumni, Helen Marshall and Abi Cope, were bridesmaids. Peter currently works as Marketing Manager for Duplo International and Hannah is a Probation Officer. The couple live in Woking, Surrey.

Obituaries We are sorry to have to report the passing away of the following people: John Theobald – died September 2006 Principal Lecturer in Languages, Professor John Theobald, died suddenly in September last year.

It seems a bitter irony that John will not reap the full benefit of the impact made by his recent publications, most strikingly the book on radical mass media criticism that he coedited with David Berry, or that he had so little time to relish the achievement of his recent full professorship, a fitting accolade given the wealth of scholarly outputs he produced since joining us in 1995 as Associate Professor.

John will be remembered for his commitment to research, which was constant and

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Alumni Where are you now? uncompromising throughout his career. He remained astonishingly productive given the significant teaching programme he maintained; his success in gaining funding for two periods of research leave from the Arts and Humanities Research Board were testimony to the quality of his work, the esteem it commanded among his peers, and his sheer tenacity in the cause of academic endeavour.

He was true to his principles in his dealings with colleagues, whether within the University or in networks across the sector.

He was liked and respected as an unfailingly courteous and loyal man with a quiet sense of fun and mischief, and a love of conviviality.

John was a devoted family man who will be sadly missed by his wife, Françoise, and three children as well as his friends and colleagues.

Obituary written by Colin Beaven.

Gary Becheley – died February 2007 Prior to his untimely death, Gary worked for Solent University’s Media Resources department, where he always enjoyed the banter of conversation (usually football) among his friends and colleagues. At the same time Gary was a terrific worker and would always pull out the stops to help others whenever he could. Gary was a great source of entertainment and humour, and was a great enthusiast, and supporter, of the University’s social life: quiz nights, Staff Association events, pubbing on Friday evenings and organising trips abroad. Gary was a colourful, cheeky chappy, who enjoyed life to the full, and always had a wink for the ladies. Above all Gary had an amazing capacity to make people like him. He was incredibly gregarious, a self-styled ‘multi-culturalist’, a great ‘wit’, and a thoroughly good bloke. The world will certainly be a quieter place without him around, and he will be deeply missed by everyone. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to Gary's family.

Obituary written by Mark Farwell and Ian Taylor.

Chris Rowsell – died April 2007 Chris Rowsell, Production Manager in the Faculty of Media, Arts and Society, died suddenly after a brief illness.

After a wide ranging and varied career in television broadcasting, Chris joined what

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was then Southampton Institute in 1994 as Technical Operations Manager. Chris played a key role in the Faculty since many of its most popular courses rely upon the facilities for which he was responsible. He managed highly complex and ambitious technical projects and was responsible for a sophisticated technical support operation. Chris was passionate about his work, which he saw as a vocation, rather than just a job; his dedication was undimmed even as his health began to fail. He was exceptionally generous with his time, was highly respected, and was popular with staff and students alike. He personified what is now known as a ‘can do’ attitude and had a mischievous sense of humour.

Chris’ loss will be very keenly felt by the University, by those he worked with, and by the students who gained so much from his expertise and encouragement.

Obituary written by Tim Gaskin.

Contact If you’d like to contact a fellow former student, then the Alumni Office can help. Whether it’s for social or professional purposes, we’d like you to stay in touch.

Although we can’t give out addresses (unless given permission to do so), we are happy to forward mail or write to the respective graduate on your behalf. Contact the Alumni Office with the name, course studied and graduation year (if known) of the person(s) you’d like to get in touch with and we’ll do our best to track them down for you.

Visit our website; www.solent.ac.uk/alumni e-mail: alumni@solent.ac.uk or write to: The Alumni Office Southampton Solent University East Park Terrace Southampton SO14 0RB UK

Gift Collection

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To order your Southampton Solent University gifts, please complete the order form in full and return to: Alumni Office, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace, SOUTHAMPTON, SO14 0RB, UK. All prices include VAT and are valid until 31 December 2007.

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Ê DESCRIPTION 1 Benji Bear (with t-shirt only)** 2 Graduation Bear (with t-shirt, mortar board and cloak) 3 Silver Plated Business Card Case 4 Jet Black Desk Clock

UNIT PRICE

P&P*

TOTAL

£8.99 £10.99 £8.99 £13.99

5 Golf Umbrella

£9.99

6 Silver Plated Key Ring

£3.99

7 Rollerball Pen in Black Presentation Case

£6.99

8 Mug

£6.99

*Postage and packaging extra. Please add per item £2 UK and Europe; £3 outside Europe ** Please note, mortar board not included on standard Benji Bear

QUANTITY

Order Total: £

Please make your cheque payable to ‘Southampton Solent University’.

Name (in full): .................................................................................................................................. Daytime Telephone: ..................................................................................

Address: ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Post Code: .......................................................................................................................................... E-mail: ............................................................................................................

Please allow 28 days for delivery from receipt of order. All orders must be accompanied by full payment. Refunds will only be given if the goods are faulty or out of stock.

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15% reduction on fees for sa alumni ve Graduates of any Southampton Solent University (formerly Southampton Institute) First Degree or Master’s Degree course, who return to study here, are eligible for a 15% reduction on the annual tuition fee for the first year of any Postgraduate course, including Research or Professional courses*.

NEW postgraduate courses for 2007 include: Masters of Business Administration (MBA) (revalidated) MA Fashion Merchandise Management MA Industrial Design MSc Six Sigma Quality MProf Visual Arts Visit: www.solent.ac.uk/courses to find out more information about each course and to see a full list of courses that are available.

Or call 0845

676 7000

Or come to one of our Open Days.

Visit: www.solent.ac.uk/opendays to book a place. *Alumni are only eligible to apply for this discount once and this is only available to students who are self-funded.

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