BELONGING 2024
The magazine for alumni of University of Wales Trinity Saint David and predecessor institutions
Interview with an alum: Andrew Wallis OBE Page 18 News and updates from across our campuses and from our alumni community
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Dear Alumni,
It is with great pleasure that I welcome to you this edition of the University’s alumni magazine, Belonging.
The title reflects the connection which I hope that you feel as valued members of the University community. It is a community that values its people and the impact that, together, we make to our society. The transformative power of higher education is never more evident than in the successes and achievements of those who have studied with us.
As alumni, your journey and ongoing connection serve as an inspiration to our current students. We want to hear about your professional or personal journeys and the role that this University has played in your life.
The magazine aims to celebrate stories of our alumni and to provide you with news about the University. You will find information in these pages of how you can share your knowledge and experiences and support our work.
You will also discover how we can support you – whether you seek professional development, wish to collaborate with us, are starting your own business or simply wish to visit.
Thank you for your continuing commitment and support.
With best wishes.
Professor Elwen Evans, KC Vice-Chancellor
NEWS FROM OUR ALUMNI
Here’s a snapshot of a few stories:
We love to hear from our alumni community about your latest adventures and milestones. Throughout the year, we’ve received a number of inspiring updates from you, showcasing your diverse paths and remarkable accomplishments.
Digging her career
Ellie Lockwood (BA Archaeology of Egypt and the Near East, 2018) successfully transitioned from her studies to a thriving career in archaeology. She is enjoying her role as a Field Archaeologist at Oxford Archaeology Ltd, working on significant excavation projects that have been featured on BBC2’s ‘Digging for Britain’ and adding more information across to the history books. She is fascinated by her work every day and regularly comes across others working in her field who also studied in Lampeter.
Mixing with the stars
Film and TV critic, Maggie Lovitt (MA Engaged Anthropology, 2021) is utilising her understanding of human interactions and narratives from her degree in the field of entertainment and journalism. As a Lead News Editor for Collider, she interviews and steers discussion panels with performers including Ewan McGregor and ‘Harry Potter’ stars Jason Issacs and Matthew Lewis. Outside of her day-to-day job, Maggie’s personal portfolio boasts an array of work including short stories, poems and novels. Her screenwriting talents have also been honoured at various film festivals.
Teaching Welsh history through a card game
Eifion Rogers (BA Sports Management, 2007) has had a varied career, including coaching football teams and publishing a book on the history of football in Brynamman. Pursing a love of history and mythology he’s had since a child, his latest venture has been the creation of a bilingual card game based on characters from Welsh folklore tales. Eifion’s bilingual Welsh Legends card game aims to educate and inspire people all over the world to take an interest in these iconic figures that have shaped Welsh culture. The game has been shipped to 12 countries and 15 US states so far and has received lots of attention from the Welsh media.
Being his own boss
This year, entrepreneur, Alun Jones (BA Business Information Technology, 2013) celebrated the first anniversary of his creative digital agency. Libera is a bilingual digital marketing business that has built a list of prominent Welsh clients in its first year of business, including the Welsh Rugby Union and Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. He also co-organised the first Social Media Conference Cymru in 2023 which was a huge success attracting nearly 300 delegates, with another planned for 2024. Alun is loving the challenge of running his own company and working for himself and is excited to grow Libera even further.
Let us celebrate your successes together! If you’d like to be featured in an issue of the magazine, share your story with us.
alumni@uwtsd.ac.uk
At UWTSD, our research is dedicated to being both engaged and consistently innovative. From areas covering engineering, social science, arts and humanities, our projects emphasise an interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world impact, reflecting our commitment to societal and economic well-being.
& PROJECTS
Here’s a glimpse into some of the cutting-edge work driving progress within our university community throughout the past year.
Making a splash with an innovative paddle board
Teenager, Rhys has a rare, progressive genetic condition which affects his extremities and his physical strength. While he has tried surfing, and enjoys it when the sea is calm, getting wet and cold causes him discomfort.
His mum, Adele contacted the University’s Cerebra Innovation Centre (CIC) to see if they could come up with a plan to help Rhys enjoy the ocean in a different way.
UWTSD’s Dr Ross Head and his team at CIC are renowned for their creative adaptations, having previously adapted a surfboard to allow children with disabilities to experience the joy of surfing safely, so there was no way they were going to turn down this challenge.
With some clever engineering, they designed Rhys a board that would allow him to sit comfortably and most importantly, safely.
Rhys is thrilled with his new paddle board and is able to enjoy being on water again where he can spot wildlife and keep his body and mind strong and healthy, while having fun with his friends.
Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru’s impact recognised
Produced and updated by researchers at the University’s Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic Studies (CAWCS), Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru (University of Wales Dictionary) is the standard historical Welsh dictionary, which this year, has been recognised in the British Academy’s ‘THE SHAPE of Research Impact’ report for its significant contributions to linguistics and cultural studies.
The online Welsh language dictionary and mobile apps have left an enduring mark on language learning, being utilised over 3 million times a year by individuals studying the Welsh language, establishing the dictionary as an invaluable resource.
Since its online launch in 2014, the Dictionary has added 4,000 words, reflecting its commitment to advancing linguistics understanding. The work by researchers at CAWCS continues to have impact on the infrastructure of contemporary Welsh as well as to the field at international level.
Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru is also playing a key role in the Welsh Government’s strategy to increase the numbers of Welsh speakers to one million by 2050.
A pioneering blood test for rapid early bowel cancer detection
The University’s Assistive Technologies Innovation Centre (ATiC) strives to transform lives through research and innovation in healthcare.
In 2024, it has partnered with Hywel Dda University Health Board’s TriTech Institute to undertake a collaborative project with Welsh life science company CanSense Ltd.
The CanSense-CRC is pioneering a blood test for early colorectal cancer (CRC) – or bowel cancer – detection. The test can deliver rapid results in 48 hours and has the potential additional benefit of reducing the demands on more invasive colonoscopy diagnosis by 65%.
It is designed to help clinicians differentiate between patients with varying degrees of risk of bowel cancer, prioritising higher risk patients to be fast-tracked to definitive diagnosis and treatment. It could significantly reduce the financial burden on the NHS, with an estimated potential cost saving of £250M a year.
ATiC, which is based in Swansea’s SA1 Innovation Quarter, are undertaking research activity with GP’s, phlebotomists and lab technicians to explore user needs in relation to the CanSense-CRC technology, and are performing observational studies using their state-of-the-art research tools and facilities, ultimately contributing to the refinement of the testing process.
Empowering education in Wales
In March 2024, the University launched Phase 3 of the Camau i’r Dyfodol (Steps to the Future) project, aimed at shaping the future of education in Wales.
As a collaborative initiative with the University of Glasgow, funded by the Welsh Government, Phase 3 of the project marks a pivotal moment in its journey, focusing on coconstructing approaches to curriculum development and learning progression.
Phase 1 focused on understanding educational progression in Wales while Phase 2 expanded this by collaborating with educators to address challenges and opportunities in implementing the Curriculum for Wales (CfW) in schools.
Phase 3 will empower teachers and give a deep understanding of CfW as a purpose-led, process-oriented approach, leading to the development of practical support for schools across Wales. It creates a valuable opportunity for schools to focus on developing their own curriculum, with the support of the Camau i’r Dyfodol team.
In a formal event to launch the latest phase, teachers and researchers were given a platform for collaboration and convergence to deliberate on the implementation of a dynamic CfW.
Watch Rhys enjoy his paddle board for the first time
Find out more about CAWCS More
PEAK PERFORMANCE: HOW SPORTS SCIENCE IS PROPELLING PARA-TRIATHLETE DARREN WILLIAMS TO SUCCESS
Juggling daily life and international competition is tough for any athlete. For Darren Williams, left wheelchair-bound after a life changing incident in 2014, the challenge is even greater. But with the help of sport science, he’s thriving as a para-triathlete.
In 2024, UWTSD, in partnership with Welsh Triathlon, has been supporting Darren in preparation for future events. Under the guidance of the University’s Exercise Physiologist, Geraint Forster and his BSc Sports and Exercise Science students, Darren has received VO2max testing, underwater swim analysis, strength and conditioning support, sport therapy treatments, and heart rate variability tracking.
EMBRACING AI AND IMMERSIVE TECH: DEVELOPING A CURRICULA FOR THE FUTURE
The impact of Artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive inescapable technology on the arts and education is undeniable and inescapable.
Believing it’s essential to question how these modern technologies can positively challenge our established notions of art, design and media, UWTSD’s Swansea College of Art (SCA) are leading the charge in the realm of art and design education by embracing the transformative potential of AI and immersive technologies.
The MA Art and Design and the Professional Doctorate in Art and Design programmes are embarking on the exciting journey to prepare students for a dynamic and AI-driven creative landscape.
Entitled ‘Manifesto of Meta-disruption: Embracing the Transformative Impact of AI and immersive technology in Art and Design practices’, a manifesto outlines the core principles that underscore the programmes’ commitment to integrating AI into the curricula, including, embracing hybrid creativity and fostering ethical AI literacy.
Timi Isaac O’Neill, the programme manager, envisions a future where graduates of both MA Art and Design and the Professional Doctorate in Art and Design are poised to be leaders in the creative industries, adept at harnessing AI’s potential while maintaining ethical responsibility.
scientific support has been
for
For UWTSD students, working with athletes like Darren provides invaluable real-world experience, enhancing their skills and employability in the field of sport and exercise science.
This
crucial
Darren’s training and recovery, helping him reach his full potential as a paratriathlete.
CÔR IFOR BACH SING TO VICTORY
In May, our very own choir - Côr Ifor Bach - triumphed in S4C’s Côr Cymru (Wales Choir) competition, 2024. Côr Cymru is Welsh-medium television competition that searches for the best choir in Wales. It takes place every two years and is aired live on S4C, the Welsh language television channel.
One of the aims of the competition is to give Welsh choirs the opportunity to take part in an international standard competition with experts from around the world invited to judge. This year, the judging panel included Welsh conductor Grant Llewellyn, choral expert Greg Beardsell from Yorkshire and world-renowned conductor Dr Darius Lim from Singapore.
The final was held at Aberystwyth Arts Centre where five choirs who had won their individual categories, competed for the Côr Cymru trophy and a prize of £4,000.
We couldn’t be prouder of Côr Ifor Bach, a collection of students studying BA Performance, BA Musical Theatre and BMus Vocal Performance courses at the University’s Cardiff campus, along with other individuals living and working in the capital.
I TO DDYSGU LEARNING DYCHWELYD RETURN
Dewch i astudio gyda ni a chynllunio eich dyfodol gyda’n profiad ôl-raddedig ardderchog. Rydym yn cynnig cymwysterau ôl-raddedig a addysgir, ymchwil a phroffesiynol i wella eich rhagolygon gyrfa a chynyddu eich potensial o ran enillion.
CYLLID AR GAEL
Ar gyfer mynediad yn 2023, hyd at £12,167 i fyfyrwyr y DU, neu £18,770 ar gyfer myfyrwyr sy’n byw yng Nghymru.
YSGOLORIAETHAU A BWRSARIAETHAU AR GAEL
Mae ein hysgoloriaethau a’n bwrsarïau’n amrywio o £100-£4000, ac i’n graddedigion, mae gennym fwrsari dilyniant Ôl-raddedig o £2,500 i’r rheini sy’n dymuno parhau â’u hastudiaethau.
CYFLWYNO HYBLYG
Opsiynau Llawn Amser, Rhan-Amser, O Bell ac Ar-lein ar gael i weddu i chi.
AMRYWIAETH O RAGLENNI
Dewiswch o’n portffolio eang o raglenni mewn meysydd fel y celfyddydau, addysg, gwyddoniaeth, iechyd, y dyniaethau, rheolaeth, a’r gwyddorau cymdeithasol.
CANOLBWYNTIO AR YRFA
Dysgu ac addysgu wedi’u cynllunio i fodloni’ch anghenion gyrfa a hyfforddi ac yn seiliedig ar yr ymchwil diweddaraf gan ein staff sy’n weithgar ym maes ymchwil.
CYSWLLT: info@uwtsd.ac.uk
Study with us and plan your future with our excellent postgraduate experience. We offer postgraduate taught, research and professional qualifications to enhance your career prospects and increase your earning potential.
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For 2023 entry of up to £12,167 for UK students, or £18,770 for Welsh-domiciled students.
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CONTACT: info@uwtsd.ac.uk
REVOLUTIONISED LEARNING: HOW OUR IMMERSIVE ROOMS ARE ENHANCING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
In 2023, UWTSD was the first University in Wales to launch its innovative, stateof-the-art immersive rooms which provide our students and partners with word leading learning spaces.
Installed on our Carmarthen and Swansea campuses, these immersive rooms transform the educational experience with immersive learning proven to be a hugely effective way for many learners to develop their knowledge and skills.
Utilising 16.4 meters of Samsung 1.5mm LED screens, they create digital content and environments that mimic real-life scenarios. This allows learners to actively practice and refine new skills and techniques. They offer a risk-free and safe space where learning can be repeated, and success can be accurately measured.
Here is how the immersive rooms have been utilised since their installation:
Tailored teaching content: University academics collaborate with the Digital Experience and Engagement team to craft bespoke learning materials, revolutionising education for an immersive student experience
Student-focused learning: Students utilise immersive technology to enhance their understanding of course content through visual experiences, making the room an essential aspect of their academic journey.
Community engagement:
The Immersive Rooms have welcomed local schools and community groups, promoting collaboration and interactive learning experiences for a diverse community beyond higher education.
To find out more about using our immersive rooms, contact: immersive@uwtsd.ac.uk
“Immersive technology transcends geographical boundaries, facilitating remote collaboration and global connectivity. Students can collaborate with peers from around the world, sharing cultural perspectives. Integrating this technology into education not only improves academic outcomes but also equips students to tackle the challenges of an increasingly interconnected and technologically driven world.”
Yueyao Hu, MA Art and Design lecturer
FROM THE ARCHIVES: TRINITY COLLEGE CHAPEL PLANS
This year, our Special Collections and Archives team made an exciting addition to the archives: nine architectural plans for Trinity College, Carmarthen, dating from 1894 to 1930. Among these treasures are five plans for the proposed new college chapel from 1930, shedding light on a pivotal moment in the college’s history.
The Need for a Larger Chapel
Originally built for just 60 students, by 1911, the College Annual Report noted that the chapel was too small. By 1924, the Principal, along with the staff and both past and present students, decided to use funds collected for a war memorial to convert the library into an Ante-Chapel, accommodating an additional 70 students.
A tablet was placed on the wall of the Ante-Chapel with this poignant inscription:
“This Ante-Chapel is dedicated to the Honour and Glory of God, and in loving memory of the Tutors, ex-Students, and Students of the College who gave up their lives for their country, 1914-1919.”
The Push for a New Chapel
By 1927, the chapel’s capacity issues persisted. Students were forced to sit on the altar steps, and two services had to be held simultaneously on Sunday mornings—one in the chapel and another in the new college library. The need for a new chapel was undeniable.
On June 25, 1929, the College Council resolved to construct a new chapel. By June 1930, plans submitted by architect Mr. Ernest John Vale Collier of Carmarthen were approved. A site was selected, and a tender of £8,668 from the building company Messer’s C. Thomas & Co. of Llandeilo was accepted. The project saw generous contributions: the Archbishop of Wales and the Bishops of the Province of Wales supplied the altar, and Mr. W.R. Lewis donated the pulpit.
A Day of Dedication
The chapel was dedicated on Friday, October 2, 1931. The day began with two morning services attended by Bishops of the Church in Wales. At midday, a public service was held with a sermon delivered by the Archbishop of Wales, and afterwards a grand procession. The celebrations continued with a luncheon in the College Hall and concluded with an evening service and the singing of Te Deum Laudamus.
The dedication of the new chapels marked a milestone in the college’s history, symbolising growth, remembrance, and community spirit. The plans added to our archives in 2024 reveal the meticulous planning and dedication behind creating a space for worship and unity.
DISCOVER HIDDEN TREASURES OF LAMPETER
Our Special Collections and Archives team are taking part in Open Doors, CADW’s annual celebration of Welsh heritage. On September, 28, from noon to 4pm, explore a journey through time at the Lampeter Library where they will display a selection of treasures including:
• Bishop Thomas Burgess’ 1279 manuscript of the Latin Bible;
• Two fifteenth century books of hours;
• A copy of Abraham Ortelius’ atlas containing the first printed map of Wales;
• The magnificent first edition of Thomas Pennant’s British zoology.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF RACING EXCELLENCE: A PIONEERING MOTORSPORTS PROGRAMME MARKS A QUARTER CENTURY
This academic year saw the 25th anniversary of the BEng Motorsport Engineering degree programme, a course that was pioneering at the time, potentially the first of its kind in the world.
History and evolution
Launching in 1998 at Swansea Institute of Higher Education with the support of the Motorsport Industry Association, the programme was the brainchild of Roger Dowden who lectured on the course up until his retirement in 2020.
The idea evolved following the success of a racing team that Roger helped establish from the institute’s HND Automotive Engineering students in 1996. Students developed a racing car that went on to win the prestigious Privilege Insurance National GT Championship, and through a light-bulb moment, Roger saw potential for a course that focused specifically on the motorsport industry.
BEng Motorsport Engineering and Design was born paving the way for a number of other successful programmes, including Motorsport Management and Motorcycle Engineering during the 2000s. It has since produced hundreds of successful graduates who have made valuable contributions in the competitive industry, with many working as race engineers, aerodynamicists, data analysts or in managerial positions for racing teams.
Today
UWTSD still stands as one of the leading universities in the UK for Motorsport education, with programmes running from the University’s IQ building at the Swansea Waterfront campus offering a wide range of workshops, facilities and industry standard software that give students hands-on and industry guided experience.
The Motorsport Engineering course combines mechanical engineering principles with the motorsport application and is offered at a bachelor’s and master’s level. Within the same portfolio, the University also offers Motorcycle and Automotive programmes.
Racing team timeline and accomplishments
1990s – Team Darrian is established at Swansea Institute of Higher Education and students develop a car that goes on to win the prestigious Privilege Insurance GT Championship.
2000s – Students develop their first Formula Student entry car in 2003 while competing at the 750 Locost Championship.
2010s – Lecturer, Tim Tudor sets up the Monoposto with sponsorship of Renault UK, then establishes Team MCR 2014. Students compete in Sports 2000 Racing Championships against professional teams, achieving a number of podium finishes and awards for their teamwork.
2020s – The team continues to run with 2 cars, one being piloted by aerodynamicist and Professor of Practice, John Iley. In January 2024, the team completes the Exeter Trial using fully sustainable fuel, Coryton Sustain 100 in a Morgan Plus Four car.
“The degree
armed me
with the
knowledge required to work in Motorsport, but the real benefit came from the associated experiences and people I got to know throughout the course. What I love about working in the industry is the feeling of winning, as well as learning and working as a team!”
Jeremy Vick, who was among the first cohort to graduate from Swansea Institute of Higher Education
INTERVIEW WITH AN ALUM: ANDREW WALLIS, OBE
Have you ever been so moved by a social injustice that you felt compelled to take major action against it? That’s precisely what, Lampeter alumnus, Andrew Wallis, OBE, did after learning about the horrifying realities of slavery and human trafficking after witnessing its impact first-hand.
Andrew is the founding CEO of Unseen, the UK’s leading anti-slavery charity committed to the eradication of modern slavery. He advised on the influential “It Happens Here” report which helped shape the UK Modern Slavery Act of 2015. For his impactful work, he was awarded an OBE that same year.
We caught up with Andrew to discuss his extraordinary work and reminisce about this time at Lampeter.
Hi Andrew! Could you share your background and what led you to Lampeter to read Theology in 1986?
I spent part of my childhood overseas and my teenage years in Kent. Originally drawn to History and Politics, a setback with one of my A-levels led me to Lampeter through Clearing. It stood out as one of the few universities offering multi-subject study, providing a chance to explore diverse subjects. Lampeter was quirky and importantly, it was over 250 miles from home which curbed the temptation to return home frequently!
What are some of your best memories from your time at Lampeter?
I became the Entertainments Officer which led to some great memories. A highlight includes organising events – I managed to get the band Brother Beyond to perform at Lampeter the week they had their first number one single. The collegiate atmosphere there was fantastic and because of its intimate and remote setting, we were encouraged to think outside the box for entertainment, making it a lot fun.
Alumni profile
Campus: St David’s University College, Lampeter
Subject: Theology
Years of study: 1986-1989
Occupation: Founder and CEO of anti-slavery charity
In what ways did your studies shape your perspective on social justice and human rights issues and, effectively, the course of your future career?
I had always been quite politically motivated and concerned about justice issues. Though, my favourite part of the degree, Religion, Society, and Politics, included studies on liberation theology, black theology, and the civil rights movement, and this significantly shaped my perspective. These studies reinforced my interest in social justice and were defining for my career trajectory. The department also brought in visiting lecturers with lived experience which was informative and inspiring.
What led you to establishing Unseen and what impact is the charity having?
After a career in business, I shifted to addressing community issues with a church, and it was here I discovered the issue of human trafficking. Shocking accounts from colleagues in Ukraine and news of trafficking through UK airports like Bristol spurred me in to action. I wrote to councillors and MPs which led to a crucial meeting with a senior police officer who lifted the lid on the local extent of trafficking and challenged me to do more than just write letters. So I founded Unseen to make a tangible impact in the form of holistic support and safe housing. The police officer became our first trustee, and his influence helped open doors to the Home Office and National Crime Agency.
Since its genesis, Unseen has succeeded in changing legislation such as the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and in supporting survivors, including around 40,000 potential victims through our helpline.
We also carry out crucial work in raising awareness of the issue among businesses helping them tackle forced labour in their own supply chains.
Andrew, what is it about your personal character that made Unseen possible?
A key aspect of my character is my resistance to being told “no” or that something can’t be done. Even in Lampeter in my role as Entertainments Officer, I would often challenge the status quo, driven by the belief that persistence can often achieve results. This trait has been crucial in my efforts with Unseen.
Your work must be harrowing at times. What do you do to switch off and relax?
I have an Irish Terrier called Bertie and have great family and friends. There is nothing that a long walk with the dog, followed by good food, wine and company, can’t help.
I also keep fit and am regularly in the gym which is a great stress reliever. Yes, it can be harrowing, but you learn to switch off and focus on things that have nothing to do with the issue.
Apart from establishing Unseen and being awarded an OBE in 2015, what are your proudest achievements?
I have three great children so seeing them grow up and do well in life is what makes me proud, as well as when my Irish Terrier responds to my calls to come back which is completely counter to the breed! I also take pride in seeing colleagues flourish though I probably don’t sit and enjoy my own achievements as much. It’s nice to have awards and recognition but my mindset is all about taking action until we succeed in Unseen’s mission: ending modern slavery.
BREAKING BARRIERS WITH A WORK-BASED QUALIFICATION: A GRADUATE CASE STUDY
Before joining UWTSD, Sarah Bolton had had a varied career, starting off in administration and progressing into various roles. Despite her dedication to learning and career advancement, Sarah eventually hit a barrier in her work when she found that she needed a master’s level qualification to secure senior roles.
Determined to overcome this hurdle, Sarah enrolled on MA Professional Practice, a course that promised flexible learning to allow her to continue with full-time work at a local authority, with modules that she could apply to her role.
As part of the course, Sarah completed a work-based learning research project linked to her practice. Her findings would later go on to have an impact on her organisation and beyond, giving valuable insights to regional partnerships strategies and enhancing continuous engagement practices.
The MA Professional Practice not only enhanced Sarah’s academic expertise but also catalysed her career growth. In 2024, she proudly secured a senior management role at Hywel Dda University Health Board for NHS Wales, a promotion she says would not have been possible without completing her master’s degree.
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SUMMER BALL NOSTALGIA:
RELIVE THE MAGIC!
Ah, the end of year bash – be it known as the ‘Summer Ball’, ‘President’s Ball’, ‘College Ball’, or simply our beloved ‘summer celebrations’.
Whether you spent the night making unforgettable memories or simply trying to avoid becoming one, these events over the years have forged and strengthened lifelong friendships and romantic relationships. We can’t help but take a trip down memory lane, evoking nostalgia of those magical moments.
Shared by our alumni community and our Special Collections and Archives team these snapshots capture the spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Prepare to
“7am after the 1995 Summer Ball at Trinity College.” Shared by Phil Catling
Summer Ball 2002 in Carmarthen. “One of the hairraising rides in the staff car park. Handbags, shoes and glasses ended up everywhere if you didn’t hold on.” Shared by Gaz Jones
Presidents Ball 1984 in Lampeter shared by Anna Somerset
“College Ball 1963 at Lampeter with my new girlfriend, Dawn, my now wife of 56 years.” Shared by John King
Students dancing at 1950s1960s Ball at St David’s College, Lampeter
Summer Ball 2002 - “The fairground in the car park was the first sight students would see. It took a day or two to set up.” From Gaz Jones
Summer Ball 2003 at Trinity College. “Dressed to the nines. Everyone put in the effort with many finishing exams that afternoon.” Shared by Gaz Jones
UWTSD Swansea students enjoyed an epic night of live music and flowing drinks at TaweFest 2024
Summer Ball 1992
“Me and my best friend ready to go to the Summer Ball in 1997.” Shared by Matt Batten
reminisce, laugh or maybe even cringe a little!
Summer ball in 1986 shared by Anna Somerset
“This is me and my now husband in 2001. We met at Lampeter in 1999 and married in 2004”. Shared Laura Deavall
MY TIME IN WALES: A SAINT VINCENT STUDENT’S CULTURAL EXCHANGE
In January 2022, thirty-seven students arrived in Wales from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to study programmes identified as beneficial to the country’s future development.
With scholarships from the University and the SVG government, they pursued subjects like History, International Development, Early Childhood Education, Quantity Surveying and Civil Engineering.
Living on our Lampeter campus, they brought the sunshine of the Caribbean to rainy west Wales, making a contribution to the campus and the town by securing part-time jobs, getting involved in events and sports teams, and educating us on their island’s culture and cuisine, whilst embracing our own.
As they approach graduation, some will remain in Wales, having secured roles here, while others return home with their expertise and memories. One of these is Xion Da Breo who shared his reflections on his time here with us.
It was my mother who encouraged me to apply for the scholarship at UWTSD and I am so glad she did.
When I first arrived in Lampeter to study International Development and Global Politics, my first thought was that it was freezing cold and that there was a lot of sheep! Everything in my new home for the next two years was fresh and exciting and I embraced it with open arms.
Since being here I have enjoyed interacting with people I have met both on campus and in the town. I’ve experienced working alongside the porters on campus and with those running the local rugby club. I’ve come to love watching rugby and have joined the campus rugby team which has helped me mix with students from other disciplines.
I joined the town’s carnival committee as a way to learn about
Welsh culture and to exchange some of our island’s own. When I go back to St Vincent and the Grenadines I will be trying out the greetings of ‘Shwmae’ and ‘Bore da’ on my friends and family, in the hope of bringing a little bit of Wales to my hometown, Clare Valley.
I want apply my degree to benefit my local community. I intend on using the knowledge and skills I have acquired by interacting with local organisations, such as the Red Cross or religious groups, in an effort to improve the community in a way that is both environmentally sustainable and equitable to all.
I have loved my time here in Lampeter and are grateful for the friends that I have made and have contributed so much to my time here.
LEND US YOUR SUPPORT
Our alumni are our greatest ambassadors. Your support and engagement plays a vital role in the success of this University in many ways. Your efforts can help potential students discover what makes UWTSD special, and greatly enhance the experience of our current students.
Here’s how you can lend us your support:
Share your experience
Your personal journey at UWTSD is unique and inspiring. With a testimonial about how your time here has shaped your career and personal growth, your story can provide current students with real-life examples of success, or could be the deciding factor for a prospective student considering their future.
Recommend UWTSD
Do you know someone searching for the right university? Whether a friend, loved one or a neighbour is searching for their first degree or a qualification to enhance their career, why not recommend UWTSD to them. Your endorsement is invaluable, and your personal touch can make all the difference.
Make a donation
A financial contribution to UWTSD, no matter how big or small, can enable students to make life changing decisions and progress in their studies. Your donations can contribute to scholarships and improve facilities that will enrich the student experience.
Your continued involvement and support can have a profound impact. Help us ensure that the next generation of students has the opportunity to thrive at UWTSD, just as you did.
Shape the future
The Graduate Outcomes Survey is an anonymous national survey that graduates are asked to complete 15 months after they’ve completed their programmes.
Completing the survey will make a difference to the next generation of students and will raise awareness of the University, our programmes and their relevance to employers.
ALUMNI EVENTS AN UNFORGETTABLE SEMESTER IN WALES
Over a weekend in May, a group of American alumni gathered in Charleston, South Carolina, to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of their transformative semester at Trinity College, Carmarthen.
These former exchange students came together from across various corners of the United States to reminisce about their shared experience in Wales during 1982 as part the Central College Wales Programme. Despite coming from different colleges across America and only spending a short period together in Carmarthen, the bonds formed at Trinity College have stood the test of time.
We’ve topped the table for supporting graduate start-up businesses!
Figures released this year ranked UWTSD first out for 220 UK universities for new graduate start-ups still active after three years. 2022/23 Higher Education Business and Community Interaction Survey (HE-BCI)
This top ranking showcases the initial support our students receive but also the ongoing relationships that are cultivated between our alumni, current students and staff.
Our entrepreneurial graduates generously share their expertise and experiences, creating a vibrant, supportive network that fuels continuous learning and success.
Take for example, James Owen (BA Filmmaking, 2021) who runs south Wales based film production company, Stori Cymru. James returned earlier on this year to share his expertise with first-year Film students. He spoke about the struggles and triumphs of starting his business in 2019. He shared how he’s grown the company to the success it is today, building the experience, equipment and team, even hiring and offering work experience to fellow UWTSD students and graduates.
Lampeter Reunions
November 2024
As part of a series of small reunion weekends designed to give specific year groups a more personal and intimate experience, we invite you to join us on the Lampeter campus to reconnect and reminisce with old friends.
With some scheduled sessions, a celebratory reunion dinner, plus plenty of free time for you to do your own thing, these weekends promise to be full of fun and trips down memory lane.
Visit our Events and Reunions page: www.uwtsd.ac.uk/alumni/ alumni-events-and-reunions
If you are a business owner or freelancer, as alumni you can access a variety of support to help you expand your current business or launch new ideas.
From courses and workshops to financial support through a start-up grant, our enterprise team can help your business ventures, regardless of when you graduated. Contact our Enterprise team on enterprise@uwtsd.ac.uk
Pictured: James Owen
Are you or a member of your family looking to tie the knot? Why not consider your former University campus as a location for that special day.
At Lampeter, Civil Ceremony licenses are held at the opulent Old Hall and Founder’s Library. Then celebrate the night away at the Lloyd Thomas Dining Hall - the perfect location for a wedding reception.
In Carmarthen, the Halliwell centre provides the perfect setting for intimate ceremonies as well as larger wedding receptions.
Looking to commemorate your time at UWTSD through merchandise and memorabilia? Look no further than the UWTSD Shop.
Alumni benefit from a 10% discount using code ALUMNI10
Contact: lampeteralumni@uwtsd.ac.uk discount on weddings extending to for families of alumni!
CAREER SUPPORT
Did you know that UWTSD’s Career Service is still there for you after you have completed your studies?
Our team of experienced and professionally qualified careers guidance practitioners can help alumni of up to three years ago to understand your career options and develop your employability.
Alumni also have access to the university’s digital Careers platform for up to three years after they’ve graduated.– MYCAREER.
For more information on the service, contact the careers team on careers@uwtsd.ac.uk.
Be a part of the Lampeter Society
The Lampeter Society is an external voluntary organisation which exists to support UWTSD’s Lampeter campus and to act as a focus for alumni.
There are currently branches in Cardiff, London, Severn-Thames-Exe area and Swansea.
It supports Lampeter through donations which benefits the campus and student experience. It also organises a number of social events throughout the year in Lampeter and other parts of the country, however the main event is an annual weekend Reunion which takes place in July back on campus.
SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS
Again this year, students studying art and design, and performance related courses on our Swansea, Carmarthen and Cardiff campuses, showed off their talents through a variety of engaging shows and exhibitions.
Here’s a snapshot of a few!
Swansea College of Art students exhibit at their final year degree show
BA Acting and BA Set Design and Production students and their work on the ‘The Visit’ and ‘Shrek the Muscial’
Wales Academy of Voice and Dramatic Arts students performing ‘Nine the Musical’ and ‘Jekyll and Hyde’.
