St Mary's Friends Magazine

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Issue 4, August 2015

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

contents Updates

4-15

Durham News

16-19

10 Years in Review

20-27

A Night on the Thames

28-33

Graduation

34-39

Mary’s Memories

40-41

Events at St Mary’s

42-45

St Mary’s in Italy

46-47

Travel Bursaries

48-51

Life after Mary’s

52-53

Introducing your new Alumni Officer

54-55

Support Mary’s

56-57

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CON TENTS Facebook

www.facebook.com/StMarysOffical

Twitter

https://twitter.com/StMarysOfficial

LinkedIn

http://ow.ly/tD8Hs

Email

h.e.mills@durham.ac.uk

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

welcome The academic year 2014-15 has been, as you will all be aware, an eventful one for the College. I have previously reported the sad loss of Euan Coulthard in Epiphany term and of the support given by our Vice Principal, Catherine Paine, Senior Student Support Officer, Dave Robson and also from our Student Support Administrator, Dorothy Grieve, during this traumatic time. Their dedication to helping our students through this traumatic time led to the St Mary’s Welfare Team being honoured with this year’s Durham Students’ Union Award for Outstanding Personal Support. For the new academic year the College has launched a new initiative “Safe Mary’s”, designed to support and develop positive behaviours and cultures that will keep our community as safe as possible. To this end, Induction Week will include a presentation by College Officers on personal safety and responsibility.

Simon Hackett Principal of St Mary’s & Mrs Helen Hackett The bench purchased by the Society in Euan’s memory was dedicated on 10th June in a moving ceremony and placed in the Eco-garden, alongside the bench dedicated to Helen Hawcroft. Details and photographs have been sent to Euan’s family, from whom I have received a letter of thanks. They have also donated his text books to the College Library, and we are preparing bookplates bearing an appropriate message.

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UPDA TES

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE There have been some staff changes during the year. Jane Heath resigned from the post of College Librarian and we are delighted to welcome Mrs Jackie Urwin, who joins us just prior to the start of term. Jackie comes to us from Northumbria University, where she was Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for Master’s Information and Library Management.

with Alice to recruit Choral Scholars and to maintain the high standards of the St Mary’s Choir set by the outgoing Director, Matt Warren.

A highlight was the recent boat trip on the Thames, enjoyed by around 180 alumnae of various vintages and nine of the last ten JCR Presidents!

throughout the year. A highlight was the recent boat trip on the Thames, enjoyed by around 180 alumni of various vintages and nine of the last ten JCR Presidents!

Over the course of the year, we have hosted several visiting academics to St Mary’s. The Institute of Advance Study arranged for in Epiphany term,

by Stéphanie Portet, Associate I am also very pleased to say Professor in the Department of that Revd Peter Kashouris, Priest Mathematics from the in Charge at St Oswald’s Church University of Manitoba and in Durham, has agreed to take Peter Cane, Professor of Law over from Revd Andy Byers as and Associated Dean (Research) College Chaplain. Andy is now in the College of Law at the concentrating on his role as Free We can also officially welcome Australian National University, Church Tutor at St John’s College Hannah Mills, our new Canberra. During Epiphany term and we wish him well. A new Sabbatical Development Officer, Katherine Hayles, Professor of Choir Director, Alice Stevenson, replacing Harriet Batchelor who Literature at Duke University, has also been appointed, and North Carolina and Kai Weise, has kept us all advised on Revd Kashouris will be working College news and events UNESCO consultant and adviser

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UPDA TES to the UNESCO office in Kathmandu. Dr Tomoko Mori, a Japanese registered architect and conservation planner and Professor Gerhard Lauer, CoFUND Senior Research Fellow and Founding Director of the Göttingen Centre for Digital Humanities also contributed to research and scholarship in the College. We look forward to hosting more IAS Fellows in the coming academic year and hope that Society members will be able to attend their lectures and meet them at High Table.

year with productions ranging from pantomime to Shakespeare.

Our Art Exhibition, held in October last year, was especially memorable, featuring a small sample of over 1000 watercolour illustrations donated to the College by the artist Robert Broomfield. These paintings, produced for the BBC’s ‘Blue Peter’ programme, brought back many memories and were enthusiastically received at the launch event, when Bob was accompanied by Thanks are due to Stephen Biddy Baxter and Edward Spencer who organised a lecture Barnes, former ‘Blue Peter’

by Professor Monica Grady, producer. We are currently leading British space scientist, planning a very full and primarily known for her work on stimulating calendar of events meteorites. She is currently for the forthcoming academic Professor of Planetary and year. I hope that many alumni Space Science at the Open and Friends will be able to join University and gave a fascinating us at those events throughout talk on the Rosetta Project to 2015-2016. students, staff and SCR I’d like to finish this report by members earlier this year. thanking Harriet, our Another distinguished visitor Development Office, for all her was Sir Thomas Allen, our hard work this year and for the Chancellor, who paid his first production of this excellent visit to the College on 17th June, magazine. We wish Harriet all when he was entertained by the the best as she goes on to a College Choir, Basement Jazz career working in the Civil and members of the cast of the Service and look forward to summer musical “American hearing from her in the future.

Idiot”. He was full of praise for our talented students, who have Professor Simon entertained us throughout the Hackett

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ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

A Year in Review | Amy Simpkins, JCR President over the world, specially prepared by our international students, and needless to say it was a huge hit. I’m sure I speak for many stomachs in thanking Head International Rep Graci Foo for her hard work pulling everything together, particularly whilst trying to complete her dissertation at the same time!

JCR PRESIDENT So that’s it, the end of the 2014-15 academic year! Looking back over the past 12 months it’s safe to say that, as ever, it’s been absolutely incredible.

Never a College to shy away from endeavour, this has been a year of many firsts at St Mary’s, and it really is fantastic to see the JCR going from strength to strength, expanding in so many different directions. In February we held our first ever International Food Festival, funded by prize money won in the Student Barometer Survey (all that nagging and begging students to fill it in clearly paid off!). The Festival featured different foods from all

Development Fund for continuing to support a whole range of our sporting and arts endeavours, whether that be through bibs or broomsticks!

Led by Alex Cupples, a Mary’s Feminist Society has also been formed, and is already supporting charities in both the North East and abroad. Indeed, the JCR has continued to raise substantial funds for some very worthwhile causes throughout 2015. Most notably, March’s charity fashion show raised an incredible £1,000 for the Royal Life Saving Society, a fitting tribute to Euan Coulthard; a loss strongly felt by the JCR, and whose memory we will continue to honour. Credit must go to everyone involved, from President Rosie Hampton and the Exec, to all those who modelled, for pulling off such a successful event in just a few weeks, during what was a very difficult time.

From food to football, post-exams saw the fruition of our first ever Varsity tournament with Trevelyan. After wins in Mixed Lacrosse, Netball and Women’s Hockey, the 3-3 tie was decided by a mixed-gender penalty shootout, which I am proud to report that (naturally!) Mary’s won! May this be this start of a long winning streak! Staying on the sporting front, our Rounders society has now been officially ratified thanks to Hannah Mason and Odette Thakrar, along with a new Quidditch team proposed by Sophie Wright and other Freshers, keen to establish Mad-Eye Mary’s and showcase Leying Lee’s Arts Committee their athletic prowess. Gratitude organised a spectacularly diverse must once again go to the

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UPDA TES Arts Week, showcasing what they do best with a paint workshop and viewing of the film ‘I Am Nasrine’, followed by a Q&A with the BAFTA-nominated director. As ever, the week culminated with the annual Masquerade Ball, and this year College was transformed into different stops along the famous Orient Express, complete with swing boats and a seemingly endless supply of cheese and crackers. Weeks later, Foot of the Hill Theatre Company’s performance of Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ had the audience in absolute stitches, even if the plot was, at times, “very trippy” I’m still not entirely sure exactly what I watched, but Kirsten Pal and Julie McElroy undoubtedly formed the funniest double-act I’ve seen in a very long time!

Not to be outdone, the cast of the summer musical, ‘American Idiot’, performed such impressive Green Day songs that the Chancellor, Sir Thomas Allen, mentioned them in June’s Graduation ceremonies… much to the envy of other colleges!

The ever-present Basement Jazz bade farewell to some key core founders, but before doing so went on tour to Prague, funded by earnings from many a University gig, including the Vice-Chancellor’s garden party,

held at St Mary’s this year.

Indeed, the Garden Party meant the JCR maxed out with a stunning marquee for Luke Wagner and Co’s ‘Once Upon a Time’ fairy-tale themed Midsummer Ball. Sublime from 6pm start to 6am finish, the ball was an absolute year highlight, with a record number reaching the survivors’ photo and obligatory hog roast. A huge well done to the Committee for all your hours of dedication and perseverance, it truly paid off!

opened in the years to come. The day culminated in a highly enjoyable Holi-Fest style paint festival on the SCR lawn, temporarily turning the grass red for a week, but thankfully all traces vanished in time for our series of summer wedding receptions (phew!) Thank you to everyone who made the trip back for the weekend, it was really lovely to see you.

I have had an exhausting, but absolutely incredible, year as JCR President and am extremely sad to say goodbye. It has been such It has been such a a pleasure to spend a year right pleasure to spend a at the heart of this fantastic College and work so closely with year right at the heart such a dynamic, passionate group of students, whose of this fantastic enthusiasm for a whole variety of College and work so extracurricular endeavours closely with such a never wanes! (Just see my email inbox!) But if I ever get a job as dynamic, passionate rewarding as this one has been, I group of students will consider myself extremely lucky. Every Mary’s graduate, indeed student, deserves the Finally, the biggest Mary’s Day very best of success, and I am yet rounded off the year and, despite the stereotypically British sure that the JCR will continue to rain droplets that kept my nerves flourish. It’s farewell from me and over to Becca, but I look on edge, it was nonetheless a forward to hearing news of all success! To commemorate our 10-year anniversary of becoming future accomplishments, of which I’m sure there will be a mixed College, current many - after all, students and returning alumni #theresomethingaboutmarys, wrote letters to their future isn’t there?! selves, to be archived and

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ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

A BIG HELLO| FROM

REBECCA HUNT Hi Mary’s, I’m Rebecca Hunt, a third year Biomedical Sciences graduate from County Durham, and it’s a privilege to be able to say that I’ll be taking over as JCR president from Amy in August.

JCR PRESIDENT ELECT

My three years here have been both fantastic and easily the best of my life.

I’m very excited to have been given the opportunity to spend a fourth year in the place that has shaped me into who I am

My three years here have been both fantastic and easily the best of my life. I’m very excited to have been given the opportunity to spend a fourth year in the place that has shaped me into who I am, with the role of helping to create similar experiences for other Marians. In my time as an undergraduate I tried things that I never thought I would, had experiences that I will never forget and have met wonderful people who I’m sure I will keep in contact with well into the future.

Freshers’ week for the incoming Freshers. This was both an invaluable and amazing experience and seeing so many Freshers settling into Mary’s like it was their home is something that I can’t wait to play a role in again this year.

It goes without saying that Mary’s has a reputation as the friendliest college in Durham, and the community spirit becomes evident in all aspects of college life such as in the pantomimes, formals, DUCK and WAM, and this is seen through the willingness and enthusiasm demonstrated by all of the students involved.

I am incredibly excited to carry on the fantastic work of Amy, meet new people - both alumni I’ve represented Mary’s at and students, and for working many different sports, mainly with the rest of the college staff football, and have even tried to strive to make Marys the my hand in goal at hockey, a best it can be. In the words of sport I had never played before. the famous film and what I Last year I was head fresher’s believe to be true: rep, an ex-officio position, #theressomethingaboutmarys which involved organising

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UPDA TES

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

Harriet Batchelor | Alumni & Development Officer Welcome to the August 2015 edition of our St Mary’s Friends Magazine!

the sun set over the London skyline really demonstrated that each and every one of us are a member of this incredible community for life.

I hope you enjoy reading the range of articles written by our students, alumni and friends about life at Mary’s, both past and present.

“each and every one of us are a member of this incredible community for life”

As my time at St Mary’s comes to a close, I am leaving in the Our special community now knowledge that this is not the encompasses not only current end of my association with St students and alumni, but also Mary’s. I look forward to our broader network of friends. attending many more Mary’s The start of the new academic events in the future (this time year welcomed a host of parents without the added stress of a into our community alongside tube strike). For those of you our students, alumni and staff able to return to Durham next members. It was particularly month, be sure to book in for the A particular highlight for me was lovely to welcome so many of Society Reunion on the meeting around 170 alumni for a our Friends to St Mary’s first 11th-13th of September. This ’Friends’ Formal’ (pg 45). This drinks reception on a Thames year’s reunion coincides with the riverboat (pgs 28-33). As alumni event offered alumni, parents Heritage weekend in Durham battled the unfortunately timed and staff the opportunity to and will be a lovely opportunity experience one of St Mary’s tube strike to attend the event, to continue the celebrations of traditional formals and somehow the Mary’s spirit really shone our 10th Anniversary as a mixed the evening ended up being through. Watching Marians old College. Now, all that’s left to say and new come together to watch more rowdy than our student is...happy reading! only events!

My year as the Alumni & Development Officer has been thoroughly enjoyable, and it has been a joy to welcome so many Alumni and Friends back to St Mary’s College. From Reunions to Exhibitions to individual visits, St Mary’s has come alive with interactions between Marians old and new.

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UPDA EVENTS TES

Friends of St Mary’s About the programme: At St Mary’s College we pride ourselves on the strength of our tightly-knit and supportive community. Many Mary’s students find a second home here and develop a lifelong affiliation with the College.

We understand that parents, guardians, friends and supporters of our students still provide support during the transition to University life.

We have come to realise that family members, friends and supporters of students might also be interested in the College and may appreciate an opportunity to feel connected in some way, whilst of course allowing students their independence. We have developed the Friends of St Mary’s programme specifically to address the needs of our supporters as well as our students.

By signing up to the free Friends of St Mary’s programme, you will receive: Event Invitations| Members will receive emails with details of College news and upcoming ‘Friends Of Mary’s’ events around the country which may be of interest to you.

College Magazine| Members of the programme will receive a digital copy of our termly alumni magazine along with various newsletters and other information about concerts, lectures and events which we send out to our alumni and friends.

Friends Formal| Members are invited to a Formal Three Course Meal, providing a brilliant opportunity to meet other students and Friends of the College whilst experiencing the traditional ‘Formals’ for yourself!

Register Free Today 13

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

Musings from the MCR | Sabrina Seel, Acting MCR President As the academic year comes to an end for most postgraduates, I can say that the Middle Common Room had an amazing year!

We started the year with a huge team of MCR Freshers’ Reps to welcome new MCR members and this definitely paid off! We had the best Induction Week, which was held in

conjunction with the JCR. Phil Mullen, Jackie Liang, Luke Bentley, David Van Rooyen, Sivaloganathan Kumaran and myself had a great time helping everyone to settle into life at Mary’s.

The resignation of David Van Rooyen as MCR President in January provided its challenges, but I happily took over as Acting President. The postgraduate community at Mary’s continues to grow and we are developing our own identity within the College.

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Sabrina Seel Acting MCR President The Executive Committee was incredible and special thanks goes to everyone who was involved at some point during the year – Sivaloganathan Kumaran, David Woroniuk, David SandersEllis, Jasmine Rahman,

UPDA TES Rebecca Cadbury-Simmons, Muneer Alqahtani and Diana Choi.

year. Other events included a livers-out brunch, a charity event for Macmillan Cancer Support and fancy dress themed Throughout the year we put on socials. The MCR Dinner at the many different social events to end of the academic year, which make sure that we fit in with the was subsidised by St Mary’s wider college community. We College Society, was also an continue to work closely with event not to be missed. In the JCR to ensure that all addition to the social events we postgraduates are welcome at also made sure that there are the major JCR events, continuing cultural and academic activities. the trend that was started last The St Mary’s College Seminar year!

Series provides postgraduate Once again the Christmas Party research students with an where everyone wears tacky opportunity to hear about Christmas clothes has proven to research in different fields. It is be one of the highlights of the the perfect place to rehearse for

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a talk or practice presentation skills. Muneer organised the research seminar series for the past few years and he did an amazing job in getting the JCR, MCR and SCR together.

Personally I had a great time as Acting MCR President and I am proud to be part of such a fantastic community. St Mary’s is a great place and I wish everyone all the best for the future. I cannot wait to represent Mary’s MCR for another year and I look forward to continuing my work with the new Exec in October!

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

Durham News|

DURH AM NEWS

Durham University students among the most satisfied in the UK Durham University students remain among the most satisfied in the UK, according to this year’s National Student Survey (NSS).

Overall, 90 per cent of students said they were satisfied with the quality of their course compared to the national average of 86 per cent.

More about Durham University students among the most satisfied in the UK

Durham cements position as a world top 100 university Durham University has been ranked in the world’s top 100 universities for reputation, based on results of the Times Higher Education World Reputation Review rankings 2015.

More about Durham cements position as a world top 100 university

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE How pupil shape can help animals survive A research collaboration involving Durham University has found that pupil shape can be directly linked to an animal’s place on the food chain, as either the hunter or the prey.

More about how pupil shape can help animals survive

Deep space images shed light on dark matter New images of deep space are helping to shed light on dark matter, the invisible material that accounts for more than 80 per cent of all the matter in the Universe.

More about deep space images shed light on dark matter

Why your mobile still works after a dunking Super-thin nanocoatings that protect millions of mobile devices from water damage have been showcased to Parliament in London by their Durham University inventor, as part of a national campaign run by the Royal Society of Chemistry and Institute of Physics.

More about why your mobile still works after a dunking

Universe’s hidden supermassive black holes revealed Astronomers have found evidence for a large population of hidden supermassive black holes in the Universe.

More about Universe’s hidden supermassive black holes revealed

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DURH AM NEWS Durham staff and students support Nepali earthquake recovery efforts Staff and students at Durham University are supporting the work of aid agencies to alleviate the Nepal earthquake crisis with fundraising events and donation appeals.

More about Durham staff and students support Nepali earthquake recovery efforts

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

10 Years in Review| 2015 marks the 10th Anniversary of St Mary’s becoming a mixed College.

From St Mary’s inception in 1899, the College marked a home for women’s education. At the forefront for educating women, St Mary’s was one of the few places where which women could study to achieve a degree. Ensuring women had the right to education through the decades, St Mary’s remained an all female College for over a century.

In 2005, St Mary’s opened its door to welcome men alongside women into the threshold. St Mary’s now marks a place where women and men come together to be educated, holding steadfastly to the College’s core values of social justice and equality. We continue to cherish our history as a place for educating women, with an all-female wing for those who require such accommodation.

To mark this milestone, we have held numerous celebrations both at St Mary’s and afar. You can read of the College’s history and these celebrations in the following pages. To join us in our continued celebrations, please do consider attending the St Mary’s College Society reunion on the 11th-13th September. You can find out more about this event here.

FEATURE

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

Looking back 1919 - 1962

Special thanks to Anne Elliott, our College archivist for compiling and writing this text.

Collegiate status was granted (1919) and the Hostel became St. Mary’s College. It took over what is now the Chorister School. With more than 60 students (1925), it was the largest college. It expanded into various houses in the North and South Baileys. It grew and grew until the present College was built and occupied (1952). An additional building was completed (1962) and extended (1993).

1899 In the beginning (1899) there were just 6 female students, a Principal and 2 servants in a Women’s Hostel on Claypath.

1899 Going mixed was under discussion from 1969 when, after one of many subsequent JCR ballots, the general feeling of JCR and SCR alike, was that the idea of mixed colleges in principle was good but there was “some doubt as to whether St. Mary’s College, with its style of buildings and its character, would be the ideal college in which to initiate such a venture.” Some areas were mixed early on.

From the 1970s, the SCR was mixed and male dons were resident in College. From 1996, male postgraduates were admitted.

They moved into Abbey House on Palace Green (1901). Then there were 10 (1910).

1901 - 1910

1969 onwards 22

FEATURE 2000 1969 - 1992 Single-sex was the norm until St. Cuthbert’s Society became mixed in 1969, followed by Van Mildert and the new Collingwood in 1972, then all the other colleges, Hatfield being the last men’s in 1988 and Trevelyan, the last women’s except for St. Mary’s, in 1992.

In early 2000, The University Senate gave the College three years to improve its performance in respect of two sets of admissions targets: the number of direct applications to St. Mary’s and the conversion rate of offers to confirmed acceptances by applicants. There was also a need to demonstrate how the College contributed to achieving the University’s aims and objectives alongside other colleges. Consequently, in 2000, a strenuous marketing campaign led by Vice -Principal, Dr Gillian Boughton, was undertaken to project an appropriate 21st century image. St. Mary’s got off to an excellent start towards meeting recruitment targets.

The question of change was to be considered more seriously after 1999, Centenary Year; there was still felt to be a need for an all-women’s college in Durham. A campaign, led by new Principal Jenny Hobbs, began for the extra time needed to justify St Mary’s remaining single-sex.

1999 In 2001 and 2002, the Principal submitted interim reports for the University’s Senate.

‘56 Group at Reunion 1996

All female reunion in 1996 23

2001 - 2002

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE 18th November 2003 The Dean was required to write a report for the University Executive Committee (UEC). The Review Team visited the College on 18th November, 2003. The strong College Team gave a comprehensive presentation of the College’s admissions and progress, including how St. Mary’s contributed to University policy in diversity, widening participation and overseas fee-paying students. Surveys of the JCR had consistently but fairly closely shown approval of change. This view was presented to the Review Panel, along with a flavour of what JCR life was like from a student perspective and how and why St. Mary’s JCR differed from other colleges.

2003 THE FINAL DECISION— 16th DECEMBER 2003 On 30th November 2003 The Dean’s recommendations were presented to a JCR meeting and in January 2004, a formal announcement was made to JCR of the move to going mixed.

30th November 2003

Senate approved the two recommendations made by UEC, which the University Council endorsed, as follows: That the University should continue to provide areas of single sex accommodation.

That St. Mary’s College should become mixed in October 2005.

Principal Jenny Hobbs: “Now we must go forward in good heart, aim to be a distinctive mixed college, and prepare ourselves for the exciting challenges ahead in October 2005 and beyond.”

Vice-Chancellor Sir Kenneth Calman: “We believe the time is now right to open up the college to both men and women.”

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16th December 2003

FEATURE 2006 2006 THE SHEPHERD WING Preparations were made to fulfil UEC’s first recommendation, to provide a quiet area for women with special requirements regarding, for example, health, religion or culture; they would still join in the dining, social and pastoral side of College life. It was to be named after Amy Shepherd, a disabled student of 1919-22, who maintained a lifelong interest in St. Mary’s.

2005 2005 St. Mary’s was the last of Durham’s then 15 Colleges (13 in Durham City - since then Josephine Butler has been added - and 2 at the Queen’s Campus, Stockton) to go mixed after 106 years of all female education (1899-2005).

106 years of the all-female college ended and the mixed college began

2007 There was much excited planning and consultation in the JCR and between student representatives and staff. In 2005 College Council set aside £15,OOO for one year, to enable clubs and societies to prepare for men’s sports teams and other mixed facilities: the Boat Club (for a secondhand eight suitable for men and women), music for the new Mary’s Mixed Voices, equipment for men’s boxing, football, hockey, rounders, rugby and the Fitness Room. 2004-05 THE JCR YEAR OF CELEBRATION culminated in a wonderful Midsummer Ball and Garden Party, best sports performance record of all the Colleges and excellent degree results.

2005 25

9th March 2007 OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE SHEPHERD WING

BY CHANCELLOR BILL BRYSON.

9th March 2007

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE 2007-2008

5th October 2005

FIRST TIME 2007-08 men outnumbered women in the first year: 115 to 104.

FIRST MIXED MATRICULATION—5th OCTOBER 2005 The first 92 men, making up 40% of the new intake of 224 first year students, arrived at St. Mary’s with other first year students in Freshers’ Week, 2nd – 7th October, and were officially welcomed by the University.

2008 FIRST MALE PRINCIPAL January 2008 Professor Phil Gilmartin: “I recognise that as the first male Principal, there is a significant break in tradition that comes in a year when the first male students will graduate from St. Mary’s and join the St. Mary’s College Society as alumni..

“Everyone has been really enthusiastic about this,” said JCR President, Vickie Edwards. “The current Mary’s students are looking forward to welcoming all our new freshers.”

FIRST MEN on the JCR Executive Committee 2006

All areas of the College, innovative and traditional, too numerous to itemise, including social activities, sport and the arts flourished and diversified; in 2007-08 every new startup sport got development funding for new kit. An Athletics Union was set up. Squash and basketball clubs, a cheerleading squad and a new gym arrived. In 2009 success came to the novice men’s rowing teams.

Lacrosse and skiing teams were set up. In 2011, came the outstanding achievement as the number one college for sport in the university league table of points per player.

2006 FIRST MIXED RETURNING STUDENTS 2006-07 “Freshers Week in October 2006 was successful as always and worked particularly well as we had both male and female returning students able to welcome the freshers for the first time,” said JCR President, Emma Thompson.

2007-2009 2006-2007

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FEATURE 2010 2008 FIRST MIXED GRADUATION 2008 The first men received degrees alongside the last of the all-women’s year. The event was covered in the press with photos of Rachel Hogley, the last of the allwomen’s year and Aaron Kotler, the first male graduate.

Two Cercidiphyllum japonicum trees, a species that produces distinct male and female plants, were planted outside the newly refurbished Williamson Building to mark the occasion. Celebrations included the Summer Ball and Garden Party in a huge marquee on the south lawn.

By 2010, Principal Phil Gilmartin could say, “We are now one of the most popular colleges in Durham…with over a thousand applications for the 160 or so places on offer for first years.”

2010-2011 The Arts developed; the JCR President of 2008-09 reported, “The foundation of St Mary’s College Arts Society has created a great push towards improving the arts in Mary’s.” A Fine Arts and Flute Group was introduced and in 2010-11, a Jazz Band.

2015 From 2008, males joining the alumni body meant that mixed sports reunions could take place: in 2011 came the first Old Boys’ Hockey Weekend when former students challenged present students. Alumni initiated more new style reunions. Mary’s Weekend became a popular occasion for all.

2007-2009

2015 Principal Simon Hackett: “The College community has achieved a balance of academic success and fulfilling social activity, with the encouragement and involvement of our Junior, Middle and Senior Common Rooms and the St. Mary’s College Society……thriving as one of the most popular and high achieving of all Durham Colleges.”

2015 FIRST MALE SABBATICAL JCR PRESIDENT 2009-10 James Liddell.

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2009-2010

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A night on the Thames| Celebrating our 10 year anniversary

FEATURE

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE

Reunion in Review|

By Matthew Watson, JCR President 2013-14 On the evening of Thursday 9th July, 180 St. Mary’s alumni, from the 1960s right through to those who graduated just 2 weeks earlier, gathered at Westminster Pier to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of St. Mary’s College becoming a mixed college.

London was baked in glorious sunshine throughout the day

and as everyone left work that evening there was no sign of this weather abating. Despite this, the event looked to be at threat from the strike that saw no London underground trains running at all for the whole day, but the alumni typified the Mary’s spirit and still turned out in force to celebrate on the Thames.

There was a lot of confusion on

the pier as everyone searched for the boat before it appeared in the distance across the river.

For one frightening moment, it did look as though Simon had made a last minute career change and decided to become a ship captain, but fortunately the awaiting crowd’s fears were eased as the boat pulled in and the professional came into view behind the wheel.

FEATURE

We left Westminster Pier at around 7.30pm and headed eastwards, taking in the countless sights of London as we passed the City, travelled under Tower Bridge and cruised past Canary Wharf before turning round as the sun set and returning to our docking point, via the London Eye, at around 10.30pm. The 3 hours on the boat flew by and, as at the Gherkin event in January, academic years did not divide people, as they caught up with friends as well as meeting new faces. 9 out of the 10 JCR Presidents in the mixed college era were present, as well as countless other members of various Execs throughout the years and everyone was reminiscing about their favourite moments from their time at Mary’s.

The 3 hours on the boat flew by and, as at the Gherkin event in January, academic years did not divide people, as they caught up with friends as well as meeting new faces.

very good of college to organise such a big event just for his birthday.

On behalf of all who attended, massive thanks go to our Development Officer, Harriet Batchelor, for organising another wonderful alumni event, which was a huge success in spite of the obstacles that the capital attempted to put in the way. A special congratulations is also in order for Harriet, whose two alumni events this year Entertainment on the boat was have been the two best provided by our very own Beth attended Mary’s alumni events Rudd (2015 graduate), who sang outside Durham that we have ever had. Good luck to Hannah beautifully as the sun set over Mills as she takes over from London and the evening Harriet and here’s hoping that culminated with a rousing there are many more evenings chorus of Happy Birthday to Eliot McGuire (2014 graduate), like these two before the next big celebration in 2024 when St. who was heard to say it was Mary’s turns 125 years old.

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9 JCR Presidents and a Principal |

FEATURE

From left to right: Victoria Edwards (2005-2006); Emma Thompson (2006-2007); Vicky Lorimer (2007-2008); James Liddell (2009-2010); Emily Warburton-Brown (2010-2011); Amy Annette (2011-2012); Louise Corrigan (2012-2013); Matthew Watson (2013-2014): Amy Simpkins (2014-2015); Professor Simon Hackett (2011 onwards)

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FROM FRESHERS TO GRADUATES| A MARY’S LOOK AT GRADUATION

GRAD UA TION Congregation Week in Durham is always such a special time.

say how proud we are of each and every one of you. You are all a credit to this university, to this college and to yourselves.

Amidst the huge buzz of countless ceremonies, drinks receptions and family meals is the knowledge that your time at university, often the definitive experience of your life so far, is coming to an end.

Your Graduation is not the end of your association with St Mary’s but rather the gateway to a bright future

Congregation presents a heady mixture of sadness and excitement. It represents both the burgeoning adventure of post-university life and, often, the feeling of loss that accompanies the ending of an era.

Your Graduation is not the end of your association with St Mary’s but rather the gateway to a bright future as a member of our illustrious and vibrant alumni community. We urge In this feature a few you all to register for an alumgraduating students share ni account with dunelm.org their photos and memories and to follow the college alumfrom Congregation 2014. ni page on Facebook which will To all of our Graduating Class, let you keep up to date on St Mary’s College would like to Mary’s news and events.

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My Graduation Experience| Lottie Peach I am a graduate. A graduate faced with the same old question, the most difficult question to ask a person, the question that stumped Dustin Hoffman and drove him to distraction: what do you want to do with your life?

Lottie Peach Graduating Student

I don’t think I am the only person to admit that I am not sure. There are so many paths that I want to explore that narrowing them down to just one feels almost like I’m depriving myself of many different careers and experiences. One thing I am sure of is that St

Mary’s College has shaped me in such a way that I don’t feel constrained or restricted so that I have to choose a box to shut myself in for the next 10 years of my life.

I would like to thank St Mary’s on behalf of this year’s graduating class, for warmly welcoming every fresher as if they are already graduates and making Mary’s a true home away from home.

GRAD UA TION Instead, this supportive, warm and sociable environment has made me a more inspired, caring and confident version of myself.

weeks post-graduation, that I have left my life at Durham for good, with a law degree, a fantastic group of friends and a shedload of life experience. The last three years Mary’s has given out so much have been a collection of with a fantastic faculty, moments that seem to flit including my mentors Harry between me being sat at my and Janet Fletcher, who have desk with my head buried in been a solid point of contact mammoth-sized textbooks, for me throughout my three that were advised to be years and people with whom ‘necessary purchases,’ (it was I’m sure I will be a life-long only later that I realised these friend. So I would like to books were written by my thank St Mary’s on behalf of professors) and throwing this year’s graduating class, some questionable shapes on for warmly welcoming every dance floors ranging from fresher as if they are already Klute to Beamish Hall. This is graduates and making Mary’s one example of the diverse a true home away from range of experiences that home.

Durham guarantees for any It takes a while for reality to student who is ready and really sink in, even a few willing to embrace all that this bubble has to offer.

St Mary’s College has shaped me in such a way that I don’t feel constrained or restricted so that I have to choose a box to shut myself in for the next 10 years of my life. Instead, this supportive, warm and sociable environment has made me a more inspired, caring and confident version of myself.

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE Graduation week was a surreal experience complete with desperate last-ditch attempts to do everything we hadn’t found time to do!

These included the absolute must for any results holders of climbing to the top of the Cathedral, which, despite the daunting ascent up a seemingly infinite spiral staircase, is definitely worth a visit. There was a final trip to Flat White, a coffee shop whose chicken and pesto sandwich may have been the key to me surviving exam season, and also attempting to see everyone before the big goodbye. There was a whirlwind of graduations to attend in order to see friends exit the cathedral as official alums; this was accompanied by my secret jealousy that they had been able to graduate at 2pm whilst I was stuck with the 9am slot, involving waking up at 6am in order to be ready in time… which was by all counts set to be a complete disaster!

horror stories I had heard of

It can be difficult to live in the moment when it is so overwhelming, but I remember taking a deep breath and making sure I was present, as graduation, for most, is a once in a lifetime event.

Nevertheless, my alarm went off (thank God) and before I knew it I was collecting

people falling over, and in the fifteen seconds that were allotted to me the two steps up to the stage were my Everest. However, I conquered them, valiantly I might add, and was soon watching Sir Thomas Allen bestow an honorary degree on Gabby Logan and listening to his speech about curiosity fuelling ambition. It can be difficult to live in the moment when it is so overwhelming, but I remember taking a deep breath and making sure I was present, as graduation, for most, is a once in a lifetime event.

graduation tickets and being

If I were to offer any advice to

fitted in my gown with a

those who are about to

special maroon hood. The

graduate it would be to

Cathedral was awash with

embrace the pomp and

proud parents and silver

circumstance, even if you are

screens that recorded our

slightly cynical like me, and to

every move, even as we

see how lucky we are to be

processed in pairs from

able to graduate in one of the

Castle’s Great Hall to our

country’s most beloved

seats. I was nervous to

buildings, surrounded by our

graduate, not because of the

friends and family. It is not an

symbolism of what it

experience that everyone is

represents, or the crowd of

able to have, or indeed one

faces, but because of the

that is easily forgotten.

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GRAD UA TION “If I were to offer any advice to those who are about to graduate it would be to embrace the pomp and circumstance, even if you are slightly cynical like me, and to see how lucky we are to be able to graduate in one of the country’s most beloved buildings, surrounded by our friends and family. It is not an experience that everyone is able to have, or indeed one that is easily forgotten.”

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MARY’S MEMORIES Recently we asked our graduating students to share their favourite memories of Mary’s with us and any wise words of advice for future students. These are some of our favourite replies from those who attended the Graduation Formals.

If you’ve got a memory of Mary’s you’d like to share with us in our next edition please email them in to

h.e.mills@durham.ac.uk It is a little known fact that the sport Pillow Jousting was in fact invented in 2012 during exam season on Williamson corridor, ground floor. A non-contact sport (except indirectly through pillows), the event was incorporated into the 2015 Triwizard Olympics on Observatory Hill, just west of St Mary’s College.

-Anonymous

Everything has been so amazing When I arrived for the Mary’s it is difficult to choose just one Open Day, a girl asked to sit next memory! I loved living in Shepto me on the coach back from herd Wing and meeting so many the station to College. She ended people from different backup being my College sister, my grounds. I have met such an housemate of two years and my amazing diverse group of friends dearest and bestest friend! and we had such a lovely time in Treasure everyone you meet Shepherd Wing. here—they will enrich your life and make you a happier person!

-Felicity McDowall ●

●

-Verity Bradley ●

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EVENTS Perhaps my favourite memory from this year was when the women’s badminton team finally won one of our matches—after improving and coming close all year. It was a great feeling as a team and we had such a great time playing together.

-Lizzy Randall ● Watching the sun rise from Observatory Hill with a view of the cathedral after Midsummer Ball 2015 in my final year, topping off one of the most enjoyable nights of my life.

-Oliver Greenwood ●

I have no specifics for I do not belong to this College.

However, I have been to various Mary’s events and met many a wonderful Marians. I think it says it all: I am missing Castle’s Graduate formal to attend Mary’s!

From, your friend in the Keep.

-An Interloping Castleman

Three years down the line and I’m sat opposite the girl who lived next to me when I first moved to Mary’s. To my left and right sit girls from the same corridor. You’ll make friends for life no matter which building you live in or which societies you join. Nothing can beat living with life-long friends for three years.

(Not even a degree from Durham and I’ve recently discovered that’s a pretty nice feeling too).

-Rachel Jones ● Rowing in my very first regatta race, representing SMCBC at Hexham in 2012. Looking back now it’s wonderful to see the same excitement with this year’s freshers at Durham Regatta— where we beat Hatfield!!

I remember the first time coming to Mary’s for the open day and the immediate feeling of having a home away from home.

This College has housed too -Charlotte Fryer ● many memories but arriving for ● I am sure everyone will say they the open day, going from cannot pick a favourite memory knowing no one to having such a Mary’s is such an accepting because going to St Mary’s strong network of friends has place, no matter who you are or College means you have been one of the best what you enjoy. So my only adcountless amazing memories. experiences I have always had, vice would be do what makes Being part of such a beautiful and will remember it warmly! you happy and that you enjoy, College really is an honour. Every but equally try what intrigues -Emily Jones time I visit, be it for the library, you and is new to you as the ● reading room, bar, Mary’s day, chances are you will enjoy it.

We once got some trays from formals or balls, I am reminded Basically, be who you want to be the dining hall and used them as of what a wonderful place I have and who you feel you are. You sledges when it snowed, which is lived in for three years. will fit in here. You will be loved not allowed so don’t do it. and you will love it here -Odette Thakrar -Anonymous -Rebecca Hunt ● ● ●

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Events at St Mary’s|

Photos courtesy of Kyle Wong

Masquerade Ball |31.10.14 The second ball of the term was an elegant tribute to the Orient Express. The masked ball-goers could journey on the Orient Express to London, Venice, Paris and Istanbul, with each College room themed according to a different country. Particular highlights were the paper-based lovelock bridge of Paris which students could write their names on and the traditional British swing-boats which entertained attendees into the early hours. The night culminated with a full hall disco with some of Mary's own finest DJs and special performances from Basement Jazz and Mary's Dance. Special thanks go to the Arts Committee for pulling off such a beautiful and enjoyable ball!

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EVENTS

Photos courtesy of Frances Gormley, Lizzy Bedder and Lily Easton

Midsummer Ball |11.06.15 The Midsummer Ball, once again, proved one of the most popular events of the academic year. This time around, the ball, themed 'Once Upon a Dream', adopted elements from the most-loved childhood fairytales with a darker twist. Our JCR was transformed into the witch's house from Hansel and Gretel (complete with sweets), whilst our basement bar was turned into an eerie forest. The twelve hour extravaganza also included numerous fairground rides from dodgems to coconut shy and featured star performances from Basement Jazz and even Beyonce herself (okay...so it was a tribute act). As the event ran into the early hours of the morning, the silent disco got into full swing with the dining hall full of students bopping to their favourite tunes. As the evening (well, morning) drew to a close, numerous students climbed the nearby Observatory Hill to witness the sunrise over the Cathedral, before returning for the infamous hog roast and Survivors' photo at 6am to document all those brave ball-goers who made it to the end. Special thanks to Luke Wagner, our Ball Chair, who put many hours of effort into an amazing ball!

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Photos courtesy of Harriet Batchelor

Mary’s Day |14.06.15 As usual, Mary's Day was one of the best days of the calendar year, with this year having a special focus on the 10 year anniversary of becoming a mixed College. Although the weather seemed a bit dreary in the early hours, by the afternoon the sun was out and celebrations were in full swing. The Mary's crowd were entertained by numerous student and even alumni performing on the main stage, with acts ranging from jazz to rap. Aside from the musical entertainment, numerous stalls around the quad provided enjoyment, taunting individuals with the seemingly easy task of fishing a duck. The back of the grounds hosted several inflatables including a bouncy castle, giant obstacle course, jousting and freefall. The highlight of the day undoubtedly was the paint party at 8pm. With blue skies above and music blaring from the stage, Marians engaged in a mass paint fight - the lawn still has a purple tinge! And of course, Mary's Day ended with everyone joining in an especially loud rendition of 'Angels', with a few emotional faces spotted on those leaving.

Coming Up| Society Reunion |11.09.15 Join us for a weekend of reminiscing with old friends and meeting new Marians at St Mary’s College. This year’s reunion coincides with the Heritage weekend in Durham and will be a lovely opportunity to continue the celebrations of our 10th Anniversary as a mixed College. You can find out more about this event here.

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EVENTS

Event in Feature | Friends’ Formal Earlier this year, 200 students, parents and Friends of St Mary's gathered in the College Dining Hall to attend our first 'Friends' Formal'. Our formal dinners for students are some of St Mary's most traditional and popular events, with the Friends' Formal proving of equal success. The catering staff presented a beautiful three course dinner by candlelight, followed by musical entertainment in our Kenworthy Hall by some of Mary's own musicians. Read on for a review by one of our attending parents, Katherine Hunt.

Having seen collections of photos of my daughter and her friends enjoying themselves on formals at St Mary’s, I must say it looked to be an experience that I would have very much enjoyed at her age.

When the opportunity arose to attend the Friends’ Formal myself, it was an experience I simply couldn’t turn down.

Having not attended University myself, it was something that was very new to me, and I can say that it certainly didn’t disappoint.

From the moment my family and I walked into St Mary’s College, greeted by the sound of chatting and laughter, and the smell of exquisite food, we could sense that it was going to be a very special evening.

From the moment my family and I walked into St. Mary’s College, greeted by the sound of chatting and laughter The experience of sharing the Dining Hall with fellow parents

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and their children is one I won’t forget in a long time. The food was scrumptious too.

After the three-course meal, we all gathered in Kenworthy hall, and listened to some of the best musical talent that St Mary’s College had to offer, including fantastic performances from Beth Rudd and Jamie Taylor. Not only was this a fitting way to conclude a thoroughly enjoyable evening, but it also demonstrated a wide range of talent befitting for St. Mary’s College and Durham University.

I am very much looking forward to attending the next Friends’ Formal at St Mary’s College, and I would like to thank everyone involved at the College for a lovely evening.

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St Mary’s in Italy| St Mary’s Chapel Choir on Tour At the beginning of July, St Mary's College Chapel Choir spent a week on tour in Florence, Italy. We performed a concert and two services in churches in Florence and Siena, singing a variety of music from Tallis, to Elgar to Bruckner, conducted by our director Matthew Warren.

Our first performance took

place at St James' American Chuch in Florence, in which the chamber choir, directed

by Jonny Davies, also performed two pieces. Later in the week we returned to this church to sing in their Sunday mass service.

a trip to visit Michelangelo's world famous statue of David at the Accademia gallery. Some of the choir also took a trip to the opera to see Rigoletto by Verdi.

Our day trip to Siena was also highly enjoyable (after some slight confusion over catching As well as these performances, the bus!), as we got to visit the we spent plenty of time magnificent cathedral and some enjoying the sights in Florence, of the choir managed to such as the cathedral, the accidentally join in with a science museum, the Boboli parade marching gardens, the Ponte Vecchio and through the

THE CHO IR TO UR

beautiful town centre. Here we A big thank you to Anuradha sang evensong in St Peter's Damale for doing such a English Church. fantastic job organising the tour for us all, to Laura Naturally extreme amounts of Bohlander for booking the pizza, pasta and gelato were excellent performance venues, consumed over the week, the to Jonny Davies for organising gelato being particularly and directing chamber choir, welcome with the and of course to Matthew temperature consistently at Warren our director, for all of around 37 degrees! The whole his hard work not only for tour choir was very glad of the pool but throughout the course of and panoramic rooftop terrace the year. at our fantastic hostel in the centre of Florence, which Laura Dean provided some much needed relaxation and refreshment 1st year student after several busy, hot days in the city.

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We performed a concert and two services in churches in Florence us and Siena, singing a variety of music from Tallis, to Elgar to Bruckner, conducted by our director Matthew Warren.

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TRAVEL BUSARIES

St Mary’s is extremely proud of our long tradition of empowering students to experience the life changing adventures of living and working abroad. Our students travel the world undertaking a huge variety of important works both charitable and academic benefiting not just their personal development but often whole communities In conjunction with the College, our alumni association, the St Mary’s College Society, offers travel bursaries to help support our students in these endeavours. Offering these bursaries is only made possible as a direct result of donations to the college. Many would be impossible if it were not for the generous gifts we receive each year from our Friends and alumni. Here a few students recount their experiences of

following their passions across the globe and say thank you all those donors who helped enrich their lives through their endowments.

If you think you would like to consider donating to St Mary’s please click here or email

h.e.mills@durham.ac.uk to find out more information

in medieval studies.

The first conference on Tuesday 12th May was held at Notre Dame University in South Bend, Indiana, hosted by their Institute for Medieval Studies. At this one-day conference I presented a paper on twelfth-century theology.

Then our contingent drove to Kalamazoo, Michigan to attend the 50th Annual International Rosalind Green| Medieval Congress, hosted by Western Michigan University and USA held at their campus in their From 11th-18th May 2015, I buildings. Here, I presented at a visited the United States of Durham-sponsored panel, with a America in order to attend two paper entitled ‘The Incarnation of conferences on the subject of the Christ in Guigo I’s Meditations: medieval period. I flew out as Exemplar, Corruption and the part of a small contingent of Incorrupt’. The International academics from the Departments Medieval Congress is the largest of History and English, all meeting of medieval scholars in connected through their research the world and I chose to attend

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TRAVEL BURSAR IES this conference, as well as the one at Notre Dame, because it presented a unique opportunity to not only engage with the global medievalist community, to gain greater experience in conference presentation, but also to expand my network of contacts within academia.

provided me with £150, which I used to cover costs of transport within the US such as my share in hiring a car.

I feel that I have not only increased my network of contacts within the academic sphere but this experience has also boosted my confidence

This visit to the US and the universities of Notre Dame and Western Michigan University was made possible through the generosity of the Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies, the Higher Degrees Committee of the Department of History, and St Mary’s By attending these conferences, College. The total cost of the trip I feel that I have not only was £1217 and St Mary’s increased my network of

Sabrina Seel| Edinburgh

Association. Registration exceeded all expectations, there were over 250 speakers, over 700 poster abstracts, 50 symposium sessions and great plenary speakers. The line-up did not disappoint!

I went to Edinburgh from the 12th to 15th of April 2015 for my first conference. The registration fee was £175, On the first day I had the accommodation £200, tickets £50 and I received £150 from St chance to present my own research in the form of a poster, Mary’s College. which was really exciting. Lots Over 1600 delegates gathered of people were interested in my for the conference known as work and gave me some useful the Festival of Neuroscience feedback. I have a keen interest which was organized by the in the role of the hippocampus British Neuroscience

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contacts within the academic sphere but this experience has also boosted my confidence not just in the practice of giving conference papers but also in my own ability as an academic pursuing research. As such I returned to the UK with renewed enthusiasm for my subject (and thesis), knowing that my research interests were laudable.

These two conferences have in this way had a massive impact upon my PhD studies and I had only positive experiences whilst attending them. I am very grateful for the opportunity that I had been given through the bursary.

ST M ARY’S| FRIENDS M AGA ZINE in memory and learning. My PhD diseases the continuous loss of is about the role of the memories is problematic. cholinergic system in episodic and spatial memory. Cholinergic I had many neuromodulation is thought to opportunities to play an important role in memory impairments in Alzheimer’s attend lectures and disease.

Over the four days I had many opportunities to attend lectures and workshops by leading neuroscientists. There was a range of different fields, but the most apparent was learning and memory. Richard Morris, who is known for developing the Morris Water Maze (a widely used spatial memory test), gave a lecture on the making, keeping and losing of memory. We were frequently reminded of the importance of memory in our daily lives. They make us who we are and in neurodegenerative

workshops by leading neuroscientists.

The highlight of the conference was not only the BNA 50th anniversary, but also a lecture delivered by Professor John O’Keefe. Prof John O’Keefe won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine last year and gave an engaging talk on the journey in search for the hippocampal cognitive map. In the 1970s he discovered cells that enable us to orient ourselves in our complex world. Lots of time has

passed since then, but despite all the research on spatial functions, we are still left with many questions.

Another noteworthy speaker was Adrian Owen who is not only well known by neuroscientists but also by the public. His research focuses on neuropsychological studies in brain-injured patients and he discussed his search for consciousness in vegetative patients. This kind of research attracts international attention and therefore has huge social implications.

The hard work in neuroscience is only the beginning - very exciting times are ahead of us! All in all the conference was really fun and I learnt a lot. I am very thankful to have received the travel bursary from College to attend this fantastic conference.

Owen Graham| China During the Easter vacation of my second year I took part in the three-week-long study china programme at East China normal university in Shanghai, China. Each week day we had Mandarin Chinese lessons until

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TRAVEL BURSAR IES lunch time and then in the afternoon we had lectures on Chinese foreign policy or cultural trips with the evening to ourselves. In our Chinese lessons we were taught basic language skills that enabled us to get around day to day. During language lessons we also studied Chinese poems and songs which gave us a further insight into Chinese culture. The foreign policy module was very informative and made even more interesting being taught by a native without the influence of western media. The foreign policy module also encompassed trips to museums and cultural sites, including the venue of the first Communist Party meeting and Shanghai Museum.

My initial interest in the trip was simply to experience Chinese culture however the trip provided me with so much

more. I have been equipped with Chinese language skills, knowledge of Chinese etiquette and the ability to independently navigate in China.

I have been equipped with Chinese language skills, knowledge of Chinese etiquette and the ability to independently navigate in China.

Furthermore, I have developed various skills that can be applied to my studies and future life such as time management,

independence and adapting to new cultures. All these skills are likely to be useful for my future career path in the Pharmaceutical industry, with China making up a large proportion of the world’s market. It is highly likely I will be collaborating with Chinese companies and maybe even working for one in the future.

The programme also gave me the chance to network with students doing a diverse range of courses from both China and the UK as well as with Chinese academics.

This trip has been very beneficial for my future career plan as well as for developing skills that are transferable to my own studies. I am very grateful for the funding provided by St. Mary’s college travel bursaries that enabled me to partake in such a great opportunity.

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Life after Mary’s | Miriam Ettisch-Enchelmaier, Private Investigator

I am now 74 years old and still fully employed in a profession I love: a private investigator.

The tools needed I learnt in the 60s when I studied in Oriental Department and a living member of St Mary’s. Especially in the first year I had to work hard, harder than others doing my work of an old typewriter. This resulted in the saying: Miriam works, we must sit down and do our studies too. In 1966 I earned my BA.

FEATURE The tools gained at St Mary’s and the University were doing research using written sources – well, nowadays not necessary to visit the library too often, being able to network with all kind of people from all over the globe, and last not least: languages. All these tools helped me to become the manageress of a private detective agency after my return to Berlin/Germany.

concentrate on my global detective activities. In the course of time I published articles resulting from my various assignments which became the basis for my academic research.

In the year 2000 I returned to the University of Durham, but virtually: I became a MSc research student at the School of Engineering and Computing Sciences, then headed by Prof.

I got the gist of the business and Malcom Munro, now Emeritus. after about half a year I became He was interested in my self-employed in August 1972, at profession which as such was least in the evening while my new to him, and I learnt the “office” was the smaller side of prevailing academic way which the living room table working up was new to me after nearly 4 to the wee hours of the night. decades: new ways in searching, During daytime I had to work as in compiling reports or first a phono-typist as a part-time names. Two experts had to help: 4 employers doing become a team. The sources 37-40 hours a week. The more were all obtained via the detective work I got the less I Internet and other online was a part-timer. sources. Mrs. Munro who proof-read the thesis, But that is long ago. In 1976 I complained that the married and my husband bibliography only showed links became a co-manager and and other online sources. Prof. financial director in my limited Munro replied that this is liability company founded in exactly what the thesis was.

1991. Since regrettably we did not have any children, we could

The work resulted in an MSc. thesis headed with ‘Internet Technologies Relevant to Private Investigators’ Working Practices’. The MSc. title was bestowed to me in Summer 2005. The long time of research was due in the main to both my working full-time in my company, nursing my terminally ill husband who died in 2003.

In 2012 I was bestowed with the title “Investigator of the Year” by the World Association of Detectives, the oldest and largest international professional association. In the same year I became a court certified translator and interpreter of the English language (German/English/ German).

Since 1998 I publish a monthly calendar as well as computer tips, laws et alia, especially about events around the globe which hinder business. The estimated readership is more than 4,000.

For more about me, visit my company’s website: http:// ettisch-detectives.com.

Let us know what you’re up to now!

We’d love to hear what you and your friends from St Mary’s have achieved since leaving the College. Please do email h.e.mills@durham.ac.uk with any updates or achievements you are aware of. It would be great to celebrate more of our fantastic alumni accomplishments!

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Introducing | St Mary’s new Alumni Officer wait to make even more memories going forward.

Hannah Mills

My time in Durham has been wonderful and I feel so lucky to be able to call myself a Marian, now and forever.

During my time as a student, I tried to get as involved as I Hannah Mills and I’m incredibly possibly could with all sorts of excited to be your next societies; I’ve spent many an Sabbatical Development Officer! hour scattering petals on tables and blowing up purple balloons I’ve spent the last three years studying Biology and, excited as before formals, as well as attempting (and not always I am to graduate, I’m so happy that I don’t have to say goodbye succeeding) to write scenes funny enough for the yearly to Mary’s just yet! I have so pantomime. Once upon a time many fantastic memories as a naïve fresher I even gave associated with college, from college rowing a try, though I singing in live lounges to quickly realised that I’m much dancing in ceilidhs at more suited to life on dry land…

Michaelmas Dinner, matriculation in the Cathedral to Having been college drama president for the past year, I’ve enjoying a hog roast at 6am been absolutely overwhelmed after Midsummer Ball – I can’t

Hello Mary’s , my name is

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by how enthusiastic and dedicated both our students and alumni are – be it travelling hundreds of miles back to Mary’s to watch Shakespeare in the dining hall, or spending weeks learning horrendously complicated dance routines for the musical!

My time in Durham has been wonderful and I feel so lucky to be able to call myself a Marian, now and forever. I feel confident that I could never have found anywhere with a more welcoming, friendly and enjoyable atmosphere than our extraordinary college. I can think of no better way to celebrate my love for college than making sure that everyone who is or ever has been a student here feels as connected to Mary’s as I do. I’m very much looking forward to continuing Harriet’s fabulous work through events and publications and making sure that students, alumni and friends never lose sight of the Mary’s magic.

UPDA TE

“I can think of no better way to celebrate my love for college than making sure that everyone who is or ever has been a student here feels as connected to Mary’s as I do.”

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Support St Mary’s So much of what makes Mary's such a wonderful place would be impossible if it were not for the generous gifts we receive each year from our friends and alumni. From support of Sports and the Arts to essential hardship funds for students in need, Friendship Gifts are vitally important to every aspect of life at Mary's.

recipient, wrote to me: “please thank all those who have given me this chance to stay here and get my degree. I’ll never forget the difference that it has made to me”.

Thanks to your generosity last year, and also the support of the St Mary’s College Society, we have also established the new St Mary’s College Book Over the past year, generous Fund. This year, we have been donations have enabled us to able to purchase books to the continue supporting students in total of £888 for students from hardship and financial every year studying in the difficulty. This is more College who applied to the necessary now than ever, as fund. the Government has ended its As last year, we have also used Access to Learning Fund which gifts to support a wide range of previously supported students student activities. We renewed in financial need to get extra the fencing around the College help at University. This means tennis court which was in a that any of our students who very bad state of repair and we run into financial difficulty provided much needed whilst they are here are almost equipment for the boat club, as entirely reliant on the support well as for our netball, cricket, we can provide to help with the hockey, badminton, lacrosse, cost of fees, accommodation, squash, football, rugby, books and general living. We basketball and pool teams! We provided a number of targeted funded a number of grants to students in this competitively sought Chapel position this year. As one

Music Scholarships and have supported our Chapel choir to travel to perform on tour.

We’ve also purchased some technical equipment which has greatly benefited productions in College, such as our Shakespeare production, pantomime and regular musical evenings.

Finally, we were delighted to see continuing interest in the St Mary’s College Visiting Women’s Fellowship and we hosted our second and third Fellows under the scheme, Dr Ikram El-Sherif, Assistant Professor in English at the Gulf University for Science and Technology in Egypt and Ms Aytakin Huseynli from Azerbaijan State Economic University’s Social Policy and Social Work Programme. Both of these visiting scholars focused their research on extending women’s rights in their countries and it was a privilege to host them here in St Mary’s to help them in their work.

SUPP ORT S T MARY ’S

Any gifts we receive this year will go straight to work funding activities in College. We have two distinct priorities this year.

Hardship and Development Fund| This is to continue to help with student hardship and to also fund student activities at St Mary’s through our Development Fund, to which students can apply at the beginning of each term.

St Mary’s College boathouse| As you may know, St Mary’s is one of the only Colleges in Durham which does not have its own boathouse. For many years, we have had an arrangement whereby we have rented space in the St Chad’s boathouse. This is a now in a very bad state of repair with a disintegrating landing stage which is no longer fit for purpose. St Chad’s are in the process of planning and building their own new boathouse on another site which they own on the riverbank, but they have offered to sell us their existing boathouse and the land it stands on. The boathouse and landing stage will need to be demolished and rebuilt, but the offer to purchase the land affords us with a once in a lifetime opportunity to finally have our own College boathouse. We have already managed to raise £20,000 to purchase the land, but we now need to secure £80,000 to rebuild and refit the boathouse and landing stage. It is a tremendously exciting project and one that our students are completely behind and which will help generations of students to experience one of the aspects of College sport which is so special about Durham.

Please do consider giving to St Mary's in some small way and know no matter what size your gift will always be appreciated.

St Mary’s College Elvet Hill Road Durham DH1 3LR 0191 334 5955 https://www.dur.ac.uk/st-marys.college/

Principal Simon Hackett Email: simon.hackett@durham.ac.uk

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