Alumni engagement and philanthropy

SAYING 'THANK YOU' 

14 June 2016

On Saturday 11 June, Queen’s Foundation and the Development and Alumni Relations Office welcomed friends and supporters of the University to a special ‘thank-you’ lunch. 

Over 130 guests, the largest ever attendance at the annual event, enjoyed a lively drinks reception in the Canada Room before taking their seats in the Great Hall for lunch. They were warmly welcomed by host Professor Patrick Johnston, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s, who explained that as well as thanking guests for their support throughout the year the event also celebrated the successful conclusion of the Beyond Fundraising Campaign which raised over £140m for key projects within the University. 

The Vice-Chancellor also looked to the future, advising that: “Our vision is to be a ‘world-class international University that supports outstanding students and staff, working in world-class facilities, conducting leading-edge education and research, focused on the needs of society.’”

He acknowledged the support of the Queen’s Foundation and in particular the Chairman Dr Tom Lynch, who is retiring from the Board after a period of 16 years. After lunch, Dr Lynch addressed the audience and thanked the University and Campaign donors for their support during his term as Chair. 

Guests also heard about the impact of their gifts from Professor Richard Kennedy, The McClay Professor of Medical Oncology, who highlighted the importance of philanthropy in the success of his focus groups into ovarian cancer research.

Portia Ellis-Woods, a second year PhD student in the School of English and the recipient of a William and Betty MacQuitty Travel Scholarship, explained that without her award she would have been unable to go to the USA in May, saying that she truly believed in the ethos of the MacQuitty Awards that ‘travel broadens the mind.’

The event concluded with Norma Sinte, Director of Development and Alumni Relations, thanking guests for their continued support and for the impact their philanthropy had on life at Queen’s and on the student experience.

To view a short video highlighting the achievements of the Beyond Campaign please click here. And you can visit the Development and Alumni Relations Office website to find out more about the work of Queen’s Foundation.

General inquiries to Gerry Power, Communications Officer, Queen’s Development and Alumni Relations Office, Queen’s University Belfast, tel: +44 (0)28 9097 5321. 

 

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