North American Graduate Newsletter Issue 11 | 2018/19
Alma
Welcome to Alma Matters Welcome to this edition of Alma Matters, Newcastle University’s newsletter for its North American graduates and friends. At Newcastle University, our work is informed by three aspirational values – excellence, creativity and impact. In October 2018, we launched our new Vision and Strategy and, at the heart of our new vision, is to ensure we exist for the public benefit, to advance education, learning and research. As we deliver our vision, I look forward to working with our alumni and friends in North America to help realise our ambitions, beginning with my visit to Houston, Texas, in spring. Further details on this – and other University happenings in North America – will be announced on the alumni website in the coming months. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy reading about our partnerships and alumni events in the US and Canada in this edition of Alma Matters. With best wishes
Professor Chris Day Vice-Chancellor and President
Stay in touch! www.facebook.com/ nclalumni @NCLAlumni www.ncl.ac.uk/ alumni/linkedin NCLAlumni
Cover: Dr Martin Luther King Jr statue, by Nigel Boonham, in the King’s Quad courtyard next to King’s Hall. Picture credits with thanks: Lance Anderson; John Donoghue; Ivan Lazarov; Phil Roughley; Chris Schippers; Signature Times Photography; Curt Taylor; Team GLEAS; Simon Veit-Wilson; Zander Wilson.
Boston visit generates new research opportunities A delegation from Newcastle visited Boston in December 2018 to agree strategic relationships between the two cities, whilst fostering new research collaborations between MIT’s AgeLab and the University’s National Innovation Centre for Ageing. The University was represented by Professor Brian Walker, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research Strategy and Resources. The trip also provided an opportunity to profile Newcastle Helix, Newcastle’s £350 million flagship project which brings together academia, the public sector, communities, business and industry.
Each year, some 10 million people worldwide fall ill with Tuberculosis and around 1.7 million die from this devastating disease. Now, scientists from Newcastle University and Pennsylvania State University have discovered a naturally occurring antibiotic that may help in the fight against drug-resistant Tuberculosis. Published in Molecular Cell, the findings are a first step towards developing effective drug treatment for patients with rifampicin-resistant Tuberculosis.
North American News Round-up
Transatlantic partnership helps fight against drugresistant Tuberculosis
Newcastle Law students to benefit from new exchange A new exchange between our University and the University of California, Davis, has launched for the 2018/19 academic year. The International Legal Studies (ILS) stream provides first-year LLB students with the opportunity to apply to study at a top International Law School outside Europe for a year. This is the latest in a number of exchange partnerships we have with institutions in the US.
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Ontario graduates learn about the University’s vision Alumni living in Ontario were among the first to hear about the University’s new Vision and Strategy in October 2018. Dan MacDonald, Deputy Director of Advancement (pictured above), met with alumni in Toronto to share details of the University’s vision at an event where graduates shared their own news and had an opportunity to network.
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Forging closer links between Newcastle and Pittsburgh The similarities between the cities of Newcastle and Pittsburgh came under the spotlight, when Newcastle University welcomed a high-level delegation from the University of Pittsburgh in April 2018. The two cities have a number of characteristics in common, including their industrial heritage, love of football and intense sense of regional pride. In the second half of the twentieth century, both cities experienced high unemployment but, in recent years, their economies have started to shift to new sectors. Today, both Newcastle and Pittsburgh Universities play an active role in their cities promoting innovation, economic development, cultural wellbeing, and urban regeneration. The Honourable Patrick Gallagher, Chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh, met with a number of our academics
to learn more about the University’s role in the economic, social and cultural development of the city. He also heard how experts at Newcastle are driving forward research and innovation to address some of the world’s most complex problems, from sustainable cities and the ageing population, to food and fuel security. The two-day visit culminated in both universities signing up to a renewed agreement to encourage greater collaboration and improved opportunities for staff and students.
A tale of two universities: perspectives from Pittsburgh and Newcastle (l-r) Professor Roger Burrows, Chancellor Patrick Gallagher and Professor Julie Sanders, Deputy ViceChancellor.
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Alumni Networking Newcastle University organises a number of regular events across Canada and the US. Alma Matters reports back on recent happenings. In April 2018, we welcomed alumni and prospective Newcastle University students for post-work refreshments at Blackwell’s in New York. In July, alumni Fraser Owen-Smith, a director at Guggenheim Partners, and Courtney Wienslaw, co-founder of All Points Digital, also hosted an informal networking evening at The Churchill Tavern. Ashleigh King, of NU Advancement, met with graduates at Alumni Receptions in Toronto and Vancouver in April 2018. Guests enjoyed hearing all the latest developments from the University and sharing their own news. In Spring 2018, the University was represented at a Team GLEAS event in Buffalo by Fraser Kennedy, Performance Sport Manager, and Suzi Newton, Performance Sport Officer. GLEAS (Globalizing Education and Sports) places student athletes in Europe, enabling talented athletes to study at postgraduate level overseas and further their playing careers. Whilst there, they also met with graduates
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and former University sports players (pictured above). The Advancement team is already making plans for more events in the coming months and also invites suggestions and offers of new locations and activities. Anyone interested can contact Rebecca Stobbs, Alumni Officer (Chapters and International Alumni) at advancement@ncl.ac.uk. To hear about events in your area, please take a moment to update your details at: www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni/intouch For details of all upcoming events, or to organise your own reunion, visit: www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni/community
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Connect. Collaborate. Create. NCL Spark is Newcastle University’s exciting new online networking platform designed to help you stay connected to your University and fellow graduates no matter where you may be in the world. By instantly connecting you to the global alumni community, NCL Spark will help you to grow your network with like-minded individuals, all of whom share your experience of being a Newcastle student and graduate. The platform is exclusive to Newcastle University alumni and students and will facilitate alumni-to-student mentoring, giving graduates the chance to connect with, support and inspire current Newcastle University students.
Why join NCL Spark? NCL Spark offers a host of benefits to our Canadian and US alumni: • Search for former classmates on our online directory • Become a mentor and share your career knowledge • Inspire current students • Seek advice on a particular industry or career • Find out more about events, jobs and volunteering opportunities • Be a part of groups relating to a particular geographic area, interest, sports club or society • Access a range of digital resources
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Alma Matters caught up with some alumni and current students to get their reaction to NCL Spark. ‘What excites you most about NCL Spark?’ Lavyne Vincent Second-year biomedical sciences student ‘I’m excited about NCL Spark because it is a unique platform and safe space where I can connect with different people with a range of experiences.’ Paul Inch BSc Mathematics and Statistics 2018 ‘NCL Spark will create a space for students and alumni to connect all over the world. I’m looking forward to discovering new networking opportunities.’ Zachary Towlen First-year film theory and practice master’s student ‘NCL Spark excites me because it will give me the opportunity to seek advice from alumni before I enter a new workplace.’
Find out more and how to get involved at www.ncl.ac.uk/ nclspark
www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni
‘How will you use NCL Spark?’ Mary Lavender BSc Speech and Language Sciences 2001 ‘I will use NCL Spark to reconnect with fellow course mates and other graduates across the world. I look forward to using the mentoring facility to offer support to students and other alumni.’ Sam Mead BSc Pharmacology 2018 ‘NCL Spark will enable me to get in touch with people working in different careers and disciplines. This will help me to get a better idea of which careers I might be interested in’. Seremma Hotson Second-year medical student ‘NCL Spark is a great tool to connect with other alumni and mentors who can provide careers advice. Speaking to other medical alumni and students will give me the opportunity to gain knowledge that I potentially would not have access to elsewhere.’
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New opportunities for New York student The start of every new academic year brings new faces to campus. Among this year’s cohort of new students is New York native Mindy Wu. Mindy is studying at the University thanks to a scholarship she was awarded and, with the campus awash with seasonal colours, Alma Matters chatted to her to find out how she was settling in and why she’s here.
Find out more… To find out how to support scholarships or the student experience visit www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni
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www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni
Mindy, 28, is studying an MSc in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security. The course provides students with specialist skills and knowledge about the most important issues related to the sustainability of agricultural production and food security. ‘I hope to work at an international organisation,’ explains Mindy. ‘An organisation such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), or Heifer International, which combats poverty through sustainable community development. The shared goal of these organisations is to end hunger worldwide. This goal is what inspires me and has pushed me to pursue this degree.’ So what made Mindy choose to move over 3,000 miles to study in the North East? ‘I chose Newcastle University because of the modules that make up the Master’s programme,’ she says. Over the course of 12 months, Mindy will explore ecological and sustainable production systems, innovations in agriculture technology and food security and markets. ‘No matter where we come from in the world, the issue of food security and sustainable food production affects all of us,’ she says. Mindy was also inspired to study at Newcastle to be part of an international community. ‘I really like the diversity represented among the student body,’ she says. ‘My programme includes students from many different countries.’ Like many students, studying at the University is complemented by being in
the heart of a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. ‘I like that everything is within walking distance,’ says Mindy. ‘The city centre has some amazing places to shop and eat. But if I need an escape from the city, I can easily head out to the countryside or the beach. The seaside town of Whitby has been one of my favourite places to visit so far.’ Mindy received a scholarship to enable her to pursue her studies. Thanks to the support of University alumni and friends, scholarships provide the opportunity for talented students, from around the world, to study at Newcastle and fulfil their potential. Mindy’s scholarship in particular was awarded by the US Friends of Newcastle University, which contributes to tuition fees and is funded entirely through their generosity. ‘I would never have thought of pursuing my Master’s or making a big career change in my life if not for their generosity,’ says Mindy. ‘I want to give my sincerest gratitude to them for making my dreams come to life!’
The US Friends of Newcastle University are: Anthony Hutchings (BA German 1965), President Andy McDonald (MSc Applied Sciences 1973), Treasurer Professor Terry Davies (MB BS 1971, MD 1978) Professor Tessa Hedley-Whyte (MB BS 1960, MD 1976) Dr Antony Jones (PhD Microbiology 1999) Sallie Locke (MA Ancient History 1995) Fraser Owen-Smith (BA Combined Studies 1994) Dr Cinthi Pillai (MB BS 2006)
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For the Future The impact of the generosity of Newcastle University graduates and friends from North America continues to be felt on campus and beyond. Throughout the University’s history, philanthropic support has helped young people through their education and it has supported research which tackles some of the world’s most pressing problems. At the end of 2018, Newcastle University launched its new giving campaign, For the Future, which invites graduates to make a gift that will have impact across the broad and rich spectrum of university life with a particular focus on supporting students.
on my studies without being concerned about finances,’ he says. ‘I hope that in my career as a medical student and as a physician, I can make the University and its alumni proud while ensuring that those who follow after me do the same.’
‘Gifts from our alumni and friends in the US and Canada can provide opportunities and scholarships to students who really deserve support,’ explains Teri Wishart, Director of Advancement. ‘The University is home to over 1,400 students in recognised financial need right now, and alumni support can help them and other deserving students on their journey.’
Through the generosity of US alumni and the US Friends Board, and an anonymous Canadian donor, gifts to the University from the US and Canada are currently being gift-matched.
Such gifts have benefitted students from North America for a number of years. In 2015, Andrea Castillo received support to study at the School of Biomedical Sciences and is now a clinical research associate at the Mount Sinai Health System, New York. ‘It made such a difference to my life,’ she says. ‘I am deeply touched and truly honoured by the award.’ In 2017, Joseph Crafton came to Newcastle on a medical programme thanks to the support of alumni. ‘The scholarship allowed me to focus more
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‘The Board of the US Friends of Newcastle University is delighted to be providing a gift-match of up to $10,000 for donations from US-based alumni,’ says Tony Hutchings, President of the US Friends of Newcastle University. ‘We extend our gratitude to our fellow alumni for offering a gift-match to Canadian residents, all to encourage more alumni support for Newcastle. Giving back is such a common phenomenon in North America, so it seems natural to get behind Newcastle and help students following in our footsteps.’ The gift-match means that every dollar donated will be doubled until the ceilings of the gift-match offers are reached.
www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni
Giving from Canada
Giving from the US
To support the future at Newcastle University, you can send a cheque made payable to: ‘Newcastle University’ using one of our free return envelopes or to the address below.
To support the future at Newcastle University, you can send a cheque made payable to: ‘British Schools and Universities Foundation’ with preference for the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, stated in the memo or equivalent section. This can be sent using one of our free return envelopes or to the address below.
Newcastle University will process your gift and send you a receipt allowing you to claim charitable tax benefits in accordance with your donation. Newcastle University is registered on a list of prescribed universities worldwide recognised by the Canada Revenue Agency. Please contact advancement@ ncl.ac.uk for further information or to make a gift by bank transfer.
BSUF will process your gift on our behalf. Gifts made through BSUF are fully tax deductible. Please contact advancement@ ncl.ac.uk for further information.
Find out more For further information about the For the Future campaign and how your generosity makes a difference, visit www.ncl.ac.uk/alumni/ forthefuture You can also write to or request a donation form via: For the Future, NU Advancement King’s Gate, Newcastle University Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU United Kingdom
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North American Graduates – Get involved! Wherever our Canadian and US graduates are based, the University offers you a number ways to stay involved and help shape the experiences of our students and fellow alumni.
Career Insights
Events Our ever-expanding events programme in Canada and the US includes professional networking events and our popular alumni gatherings.
Online Networking NCL Spark, our new online networking platform, helps you stay connected with fellow graduates and offers alumni-to-student mentoring.
Sharing your knowledge and experience with current students is a great opportunity to shape future careers.
Alumni Ambassadors
Achievement Awards
Our Alumni Ambassadors act as a point of contact between alumni based in their country of residence and the University.
The University’s Alumni Achievement Awards celebrate and recognise the achievements of members of our vibrant alumni network.
Find out more
on about For further informati s, please any of these activitie k/alumni visit www.ncl.ac.u mni. or contact us at: alu .uk volunteer@ncl.ac
Are your de tails up to d ate? Pleas
e take a mo ment to update your details with us at: www.nc l.ac.uk/alu mni/ intouch
By doing so , you will be first to hear about all our upco ming events and activities.
NU Advancement, Newcastle University, King’s Gate, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)191 208 7250 | E-mail: advancement@ncl.ac.uk Designed by: GDA, Northumberland. Printed by: Statex Colour Print, Newcastle upon Tyne.