It’s all in the

DESIGNWinner of the Vince Ma Award! For more details on this story see page 15

MATTERS

ISSUE 5

Tightening links to industry – read about Pathways to Property on page 12

See your philanthropy in action on page 6

Find out about our Silchester experience on page 3

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The higher education sector in the UK and, indeed, across the world is changing rapidly. We are proud of our global reputation for academic excellence but we cannot stand still if we are to remain successful. That is why we are forward-looking in all that we do, not least with our students so that they are equipped for life beyond university.

We have been working hard on developing a new strategy to take us through to our centenary as a chartered university in 2026. It builds on our existing strengths but is designed to enhance our standing in research and teaching, as well as the impact we have on the wider world.

As the following pages demonstrate, your donations make a huge difference to every aspect of our students’ lives. From purchasing equipment for extra-curricular clubs through funding resources that enrich our academic courses to providing opportunities in the world of work – life at the University of Reading is immeasurably improved for our students. Not only that, your support has enabled us to welcome students who would otherwise be unable to benefit from the excellent education we provide. Their stories, and the stories of so many students who have benefitted because of our supporters, are shared in these pages.

As the University strives to enhance its impact on world research, we look to our donors to assist us in providing opportunities and resources for the talented individuals we have working here. Thanks to you, our facilities for cardiovascular research now match our expertise, and we are already working on exciting projects that could lead to major medical advances.

We are also developing new technology with your support – technology like the virtual reality dentistry laboratory that is currently integrated into the dental curriculum at King’s College, London. Our research into the natural world has been greatly assisted by our Bumblearium, which allows us to understand better how we can help halt the decline of our bee population.

The following pages show just how varied our donors are – from those who graduated recently and already want to give back, to those who wish to make a legacy donation. We are also very fortunate to have the support of companies who work with us in providing our students with amazing opportunities.

All of your support is greatly appreciated, and all of it makes a difference. On behalf of everyone at the University of Reading who has benefitted, I offer my grateful and profound thanks.

Sir David Bell KCB, Vice-Chancellor

THE COLLEGE OF BENEFACTORSWe are pleased to introduce each of the inductees for 2014:

Sir John Madejski OBE DL

The late Professor Wallace Hirst and Mrs Muriel Hirst MBE

John Nike OBE DL

The Wolfson Foundation

The British Land Company plc

The International Capital Market Association (ICMA)

SEGRO plc

CBRE

We thank all of these donors for their generous support for the University of Reading and welcome them to the College of Benefactors.

We are proud to announce that this summer’s graduations will see the formal launch of the University of Reading’s College of Benefactors, a prestigious new group whose members are recognised as being significant donors to the University.

Induction into the College is the highest honour that the University can bestow upon its donors and its members have all made exceptional gifts to the institution.

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2014 edition of Giving Matters. In it, we are able to celebrate the many successes that have been made possible through your generosity.

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Before the Silchester Field School, a Reading student’s engagement with field archaeology was largely experiential, varying according to the nature of the project.

From the start, the philosophy of the Silchester Field School has been to train all participants, whatever their ability, in all aspects of the project. This includes excavation itself, the various aspects of single-context recording and sampling, processing finds and environmental samples, and communicating the discoveries to visitors.

The University of Reading strongly believes that today’s students should be trained in the preservation and appreciation of our heritage. The Silchester Project has assisted us in making sure that the next generation will continue to understand, respect and cherish our history.

The success of the Silchester Town Life Project over the last 18 years is due to the wonderful support of a great many individuals and organisations, from the landowner, Hampshire County Council, through funding bodies such as AHRC, the British Academy, the Calleva Foundation, GML Ltd, the Headley Trust, the JISC, the Leverhulme Trust, the local authority, Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council, and to generous individuals. Dudley Fishburn has been a pivotal figure in the development of an enormously successful Friends of Silchester group. To list all our supporters would probably fill an entire issue of British Archaeology!

Professor Michael Fulford, Archaeology

SILCHESTER Town Life Project

We are still fundraising for the final stages of the Silchester Town Life Project. If you would like to find out more, please contact joe.stewart@reading.ac.uk.

A bursary can change the course of a person’s life and help them to realise their true ability. It allows them to go on to make their mark in the world and, in turn, help to improve the lives of others.

TRANSFORMING LIVES

Below is the story of Mcloud Kayira, our 2010/2011 Marshal Papworth Scholar.

Motivated by my humble upbringing in a rural village in Kasungu District, Malawi, I have always wanted to contribute towards the construction of sustainable rural communities by transferring the skills acquired to smallholder farmers.

I still believe that my local farmer needs to change his mind-set towards agriculture and his life altogether. He needs to believe in himself and I am one of those equipped to help the farmer do just that.

Soon after returning home after graduating with my MSc in Applied Development Studies, I joined the Bunda College’s Bambara McKnight Project, entrusted with the role of training farmers in agricultural marketing and linking them to markets. I successfully trained about 100 farmers and linked them to Malawi’s Agricultural Exchange (ACE). I established two farmer groups in Mzimba and Ntchisi districts.

I left the project in September 2012 to join the Africa Institute of Corporate Citizenship (AICC). I work on a project called Strengthening Market Linkages for increased Incomes and Rural Transformation and Electronic Voucher System. I have 332 farmers that have grown groundnuts. I am training them in recommended groundnut production practices. I will also train them in postharvest handling to reduce postharvest losses and levels of aflatoxin.

‘I love my work. The course really transformed the way I think about life. Now I live in a world of possibilities.’

The reach of a bursary cannot be overestimated, and it is thanks to our generous donors, like you, that the University of Reading can provide bursaries for capable students who otherwise would be unable to fulfil their potential. We are particularly proud of our overseas bursary schemes which allow people from underprivileged backgrounds in other countries to benefit from the excellent education and opportunities that we provide.

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Wazita Butari Tunisia Scott (MSc Atmosphere Ocean and Climate)

I am from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which is located in the Caribbean. I first heard of the University of Reading (UoR) from a meteorology lecturer during my undergraduate studies. The lecturer is an alumna of UoR’s meteorology master’s programme.

From personal research, I understood that UoR is one of the top ten research-intensive universities in the UK and is ranked as one of the top 200 universities in the world!

I also discovered that the meteorology degree UoR offers is of high quality and prominent worldwide. On this basis, I made UoR my first choice for pursing my master’s degree in meteorology.

Coming to UoR has presented me with an opportunity to meet people of different cultures and to learn new cultural practices. I now have many new friends who came from different parts of the world. This grant gave my dream the financial impetus required to be actionable. Thanks Alumni!

Samuel Muyinza (MSc Development Policy, Practice and Process)

Apart from working for a Christian childcare charity dedicated to the care of HIV/Aids and war orphans in my native country – Uganda – I have also worked as a volunteer in a women’s empowerment organisation with a mission to uplift the status of HIV/Aids infected and affected women. In 1996, I moved to Botswana where until recently I was involved with education development in a slum settlement aimed at reducing literacy levels among the poor.

My desire had always been to improve on my community work skills through further relevant education in a reputable UK university such as the University of Reading. The MSc in Development Policy, Practice and Process is enabling me to fulfil the above ambition.

The very helpful University members of staff coupled with a vibrant student community all contributed to making my time at the University very enjoyable.

The International Masters Bursary so generously offered to me will go a long way in helping to transform the livelihoods of many needy families especially in Africa. I am eternally grateful for your kindness.

Vemuri Lakshmi Kathyayani (MSc Food Technology-Quality Assurance)

The intrinsic quality of imparting learning as pertaining to the Food Bioscience Department and the advanced facilities available for research made me choose this University. I had an excellent and fabulous time here in Reading.

More than the joy of attainment, this bursary has filled me with an intense sense of purpose and direction.

International Masters Bursaries have been awarded to talented individuals regularly, but in 2012/2013 we began awarding six a year – this means that, thanks to your generosity, even more international students can benefit from all that a University of Reading education can give. To celebrate this initiative, we are sharing a round-up of previous recipients of this award and what it has meant for them.

TRANSFORMING LIVES

Andriy Aleksyeyev (MSc Agricultural Economics)The International Masters Bursary is something more than just a certain amount of money to me.

It is the life changing gift, which shows that people believe in you, believe that you deserve it.

That is why receiving a bursary is a great responsibility. It is my duty to justify the trust of the people who helped me: my family, donors, Annual Fund team, and show that I am really worth it.

Dear donors, thank you for changing my life for the better!

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MODEL UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCEThe Reading University Model United Nations Society (RUMUN) held an International MUN Conference on Whiteknights campus, attracting over 200 participants from all over the UK and Europe. The events require the students to employ their research, communication, debating, negotiating and critical thinking skills and allow Reading to be represented at an international level. This helps with student employability and allows the University to gain recognition internationally.

‘There is a myriad of benefits that this project bestows upon students at Reading… During a MUN conference these benefits are much more pronounced. Firstly, a weekend long event allows for much greater integration than can be achieved in our weekly society meetings. They also allow participants to intermingle with others from around the world, encouraging the free flow of ideas and further helping them to develop the skills employed when engaging in MUN.’

MATHS ARCADEThe Maths Arcade provides a space for

students and staff to interact using mathematical puzzles and games. The core aims and benefits are to support students struggling with mathematical thinking; to challenge and stretch more confident and

able learners and to provide a conduit for developing the staff-student community.

‘The Arcade is proving itself to be a key point of contact for several students with social difficulties

(including Autistic Spectrum Disorders), thereby enhancing our pastoral provision for such students, as well as providing another aspect to life within the department.’

YOUTUBE FOR ENGLISHEnglishAtReading is a new YouTube channel which contains three minute videos and podcasts on all things English (and more general study info too!). The equipment to film the videos was purchased by the Annual Fund.

The channel is already being put to good use with lots of video content being posted.

Over 6,000 donors have supported the Annual Fund since it began in 2004. This has enabled us to help fund projects in three different areas: innovative teaching and learning, extra-curricular activities and student support. The benefits to our students can be seen in every aspect of university life today and, each year, your donations assist in the development of the University of Reading.

YOUR PHILANTHROPY

TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELDTen mini iPads were purchased for technological support for enhanced student learning during fieldwork. By providing students and their tutors with this kind of fieldwork-ready mobile technology, they are able to gather higher quantities and better quality data. As well as this they are able to start processing that data in the field – thereby enhancing their learning as they can make connections with their data whilst still immersed in that environment.

Below are some of the projects that have been made possible by the 2012/2013 Annual Fund.

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HOCKEY CLUB EQUIPMENTThe Mixed Hockey Club was struggling to recruit members due to the costs of equipment associated with the sport. The Annual Fund purchased team shirts and equipment that not only attracted new members, but also boosted morale within the team.

‘The mixed hockey club prides itself on being able to cater for complete beginners to the sport, previously however, beginners have been put off by the amount of money they would need to spend on equipment. The new sticks and team match shirts purchased with the funds have allowed us to say to new members that they don’t need any equipment to play or feel like part of the team. The club was able to advertise that we could provide all the necessary equipment this year and due to this we have doubled our membership.’

RAG & ENACTUSOur students have a social conscience as can be seen by two of our student groups – Enactus (supporting community projects) and RAG (Raise and Give). Thanks to our Annual Fund donors, both groups have benefitted from marketing, and RAG has also been able to hold additional events and raise greater amounts for their charities.

RAG‘Our increased publicity has led to us tripling our membership from four committee members to 12. Our added extras for events such as a balloon net and photobooth really added a wow factor and meant many more students engaged with our events.’

Enactus‘…marketing during Fresher’s week, helped us recruit around 40 students to take part in our society’

SAMBAWith your money RUMS (Reading University Music Society) has been able to buy a fully equipped 30 piece samba kit.

‘We have set up a samba band which rehearses weekly. So far we have 20 members and are in the process of recruiting more. It is a fun ensemble that allows anyone to join in and make music.’

CIRCUS ARTSThe Reading University Circus Arts Society requested funding to buy new equipment and cover travel costs for training and charity events.

‘Funding so far has greatly helped this as it has been able to provide equipment towards the club so students can further their skills and we have more equipment for performances. So far we have done two performances: an LED performance during the RUSU elections outside of the union and a performance within the union in aid of Cancer Research.’

IN ACTION

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CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY & FLOW CYTOMETRYA confocal fluorescence microscope is much the same as a conventional light microscope but with added features to enhance its capabilities. It allows scientists to see what is happening in live cells in real time (at up to 320 frames per second) in three dimensions, and to develop methodologies that would not have been possible before. Our super-resolution confocal microscope is world-leading technology that enables previously un-imaginable clarity.

‘These machines are cutting edge. They essentially open new avenues of research we could never dream of doing before. So it is an amazing opportunity for the researchers here.’Dr Graham Luke

The value of the Flow Cytometry technique lies in the ability to make measurements on large numbers of single cells within a short period of time (tens of seconds to minutes). This enables us to assess what the cells are, to analyse their functions and to determine when and how certain cells may malfunction in disease. This technique uses lasers and detectors that are able to analyse far more cells than would be possible using a microscope. The beauty of our specific system is its simplicity to use, making this a core piece of equipment for many researchers within the ICMR.

Centre for CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGINGGenerous donations have allowed us to purchase new state-of-the-art equipment for the Institute for Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research (ICMR). To support our research into cardiovascular diseases and the metabolic conditions from which these develop, in 2013 we established a new Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging. This incorporates cutting edge technology to visualise cardiac and vascular function, to study thrombosis in vivo and to analyse body fat composition. Our cell and molecular studies have been enhanced with a new fluorescence microscopy laboratory including high speed confocal technologies, and super-resolution (STORM) confocal analysis.

LUNAR IDXA SCANNER (Intelligent Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry Scanner)

Dual energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) is a non-invasive gold standard technique usually adopted for the measurement of bone mineral density (BMD), an indicator of bone health. Scientists within the ICMR will be using the scanner for an altogether different reason – to detect body fat.

‘We now have the capability to determine where the ‘harmful’ fat deposits are in the body and how particular diets can influence these fat depots.’Dr Kim Jackson

DXA technology is able to distinguish body fat, to determine how much is present, and where precisely in the body it is hidden. This is vitally important in research to be able to study the link between body fat distribution, with cardiovascular diseases and the underlying metabolic conditions from which these develop. This will contribute to the evidence on how changes in diet and nutrition influence body fat deposits and risk of disease development.

PORTABLE ULTRASOUND MONITORS Ultra-sound monitors are used for non-invasive visualisation of internal areas of the body and are best known for their use in pregnant women for observing their growing foetus. Yet this sensitive monitor can also be used to accurately see inside arteries and measure their ability to relax, in addition to measuring the size of atherosclerotic plaques that may be forming in the artery walls. With the two portable machines that were purchased, arteries can be observed within our unit and allow flexibility to perform measurements outside of the ICMR such as in the participant’s home or in hospital.

‘It is amazing to be able to visualise even a small atherosclerotic plaque in an artery and have the ability to measure changes in response to different diets.’Dr Oonagh Markey

An example of the images made possible by the confocal microscopes purchased thanks to our generous donors.

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We have developed an important new research facility that will ensure new innovations that will help to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the UK. Cutting-edge technologies come at a premium, and therefore this would not have been possible without the generous contributions from many sponsors and friends of the ICMR. These include the British Heart Foundation, The Wolfson Foundation, Charles Wolfson Charitable Trust, Garfield Weston Trust and private sponsors.Professor Jon Gibbons, Director of the ICMR

INTRAVITAL MICROSCOPY & HIGH FREQUENCY ULTRASOUNDIn addition to being able to assess the risk of developing disease, it is also vitally important to be able to visualise processes such as thrombosis and heart failure as they occur. This is challenging both in terms of the technologies required to do this, and the expertise to develop new approaches using these.

‘Our new technology gives us an unprecedented level of important information about what triggers thrombosis and how we may control or prevent this. There are very few labs in the world that are able to do this type of specialist analysis. The investments that have been made in the new Cardiovascular Imaging Centre will therefore ensure that the ICMR continues to lead research in this vital area.’Dr Michael Schenk

Researchers within the ICMR have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries in visualising and studying thrombosis and its inhibition. This is possible through use of specialist microscopy known as intravital microscopy. Our ICMR intravital microscopy system has been enhanced by incorporating an ultra-fast confocal microscope scanner.

This means that we can now peer into diseased blood vessels and view the cells and processes that lead to thrombosis in three dimensions, offering a whole new level of important information.

Thrombosis frequently leads to damage to the heart and circulatory system. To visualise, quantify and analyse this damage we have purchased a high-frequency ultrasound system. This enables visualisation of the heart, circulation, and blood vessels and to assess blood flow. This provides an important non-invasive window on cardiovascular physiology that will be important not only to understand the processes of disease development, but will enable us to assess the potential benefit of measures designed to prevent or treat cardiovascular disease.

Thanks to our generous donors this technology (and the scientists we have behind it) is allowing the University of Reading to take its rightful place leading research innovations and developments in cardiovascular research.

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Over 150 donors joined us at Whiteknights for Donor Day 2014 to celebrate philanthropy and all that it can achieve.

EXHIBITIONSOur exhibitions included projects that have benefitted greatly from our Annual Fund.

LACROSSELacrosse is known as the fastest game on two legs. There are male, female and mixed areas of the sport, all of which are provided at the University. The equipment purchased by the Annual Fund is essential for the game and helps to ensure the safety of the players.

BUMBLEARIUM Development of a bee garden in the Harris Garden allowed a showcase urban wildlife garden to be created, with the role of honeybees as pollinators the heart of the system. The facility provides an exceptional and innovative teaching resource for our undergraduate students as well as giving them valuable practical skills. It also benefits the local community and schoolchildren through open days and organised visits.

‘Donations have allowed us to build cages where we can carry out controlled and some very novel and quite new scientific procedures on these insects. Without the funds to build these cages we wouldn’t be able to do this kind of cutting edge research.’

Duncan Coston, Biodiversity Crops and Agro Eco-Systems

The Annual Fund allowed us to buy helmets, armpads, gloves and sticks which has helped student participation immensely.’

Adam Jones, Philosophy student, Representative of the Reading Lacrosse Club

HAPTEL VIRTUAL DENTAL LAB This virtual reality dentistry chair earned a nomination for Professor William Harwin in the Outstanding Contribution to Innovation and Technology category of the Times Higher Education Awards 2013. The research was completed at the UoR and the technology was launched at King’s College, London Dental Institute, where it is now integrated into the dental undergraduate curriculum.

DONOR DAY

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IN CONVERSATIONThe Vice-Chancellor chaired the In Conversation section of the day which included three renowned speakers from our University.

• Professor Keith Shine was awarded a Regius Professorship in the Meteorology Department by the Queen. This post is not only a great privilege but also a reflection of the excellent research and teaching that is completed at Reading.

• Professor Shirley Reynolds, Director of the University of Reading’s Charlie Waller Institute, has been pivotal in the development of MindEd, a free, online resource aimed at helping adults to recognise mental health issues in children.

• Pharmacology Professor Alistair McNeish’s research is part of the Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research (ICMR) which is working with the British Heart Foundation and hosted their Mending Broken Hearts launch.

‘I chose to give money to the hardship fund when I was phoned by a very nice young lady who was very persuasive. I decided it was a good thing to do and so I decided to donate. That was about six years ago and I have carried on. It’s nice to give something back.’Catherine Ludlow, French, 1967

To find out more about Donor Day, or for further information on making a donation to the University, please contact the Campaigns and Supporter Engagement Office: annualfund@reading.ac.uk or 0118 378 8006.

‘I think it is great to see former students of the University kindly donating their money to give current students at Reading the opportunity to have career enhancing experiences whilst they are at University. This day is really important because it allows those who do give money the opportunity to see where their money goes, because their money really does go a very long way.’

Mark Kelleher, President of RUSU

‘I gave because I have seen for myself all the good work that RUSU and the Student Services Centre does and I wanted to do my bit for that.’James Fletcher, 2012 Politics and International Relations, Former President of RUSU

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Pathways to PROPERTY

The talks from the graduates were very inspiring which was exactly what I needed. The group work allowed us to meet great people we will never forget and people who we might be working with in the futureAnita Muswere

If you would be interested in getting involved, please contact Rachel Lad, Pathways to Property Project Officer, at r.lad@rref.reading.ac.uk or on 0118 378 4196.

Pathways to Property was established in 2012 by the Reading Real Estate Foundation (RREF) to widen access to the real estate industry and profession by raising the profile of real estate as a subject of study in higher education.

The initiative is funded by British Land, The Sutton Trust and 14 real estate firms who have committed their support and expertise to the programme for the first three years.

The initiative was set up to tackle the lack of diversity within the real estate industry and Real Estate & Planning degrees at the University of Reading. Due to the current lack of awareness of the sector in state schools, able students from less advantaged or non-traditional families are not being exposed to the career opportunities in this field which is having an adverse effect on entrants into higher education courses.

Pathways to Property was established with the support of the RREF Board of Trustees, and a Project Board, chaired by RREF Trustee, Alan Froggatt, was created consisting of alumni, academics from the School of Real Estate & Planning, donors

and other key individuals from industry and education. RREF has managed to secure over half a million pounds to support the initiative for three years and the second phase of fundraising is underway to ensure this long-term programme can continue.

A four day Summer School at the University of Reading, held each year in July allows students to explore real estate and planning degrees at the University of Reading as well as experience university life. As part of the programme, students are taken on site visits, introduced to industry alumni and present a project to industry professionals.

After the Summer School, participants have the opportunity to apply for a one week work placement in a real estate firm and are matched to an undergraduate student mentor. Last year’s Summer School was incredibly successful with over 30% of students applying for a real estate course with Reading as a result. We are expecting to double the number of attendees for our 2014 Summer School.

The Summer School has been promoted nationally and locally at national careers events, school talks and at a teacher engagement event at The Shard in March. This year the initiative has reached over 1,400 students, 70 parents and 400 teachers and careers advisers at outreach events.

We are very grateful for the support of our principle donors British Land and The Sutton Trust, both of which have provided guidance and support for the project. We are also grateful to the 14 other firms that provide essential funding and support and work placement opportunities. These firms are BNP Paribas Real Estate, Colliers International, Cushman & Wakefield, CBRE, DTZ, Gerald Eve, JLL, Knight Frank, Lambert Smith Hampton, Redevco, Savills, Strutt & Parker, The Crown Estate and UPP.

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THE PALMER SOCIETYThe Palmer Society tea party was a highly enjoyable occasion, with the VC, Sir David Bell, joining with Palmer Society members, their guests and current staff, to celebrate the University of Reading and the important role our donors play in its success.

The Palmer Society is made up of people who have pledged to leave a legacy to the University. A legacy is a wonderful way to give, for those who wish to make a difference to the future of the University. We are proud of the long history of support that we have received from benefactors and the projects that these funds have enabled us to fulfil: from the creation of chairs and lectureships, to the establishment of student scholarships to the building of residences and research facilities.

Example of the rare content stored in the Special Collections store, partly made possible by a legacy from Sheila Bolton of her house and contents

Wantage Hall was donated by a legacy from Lady Wantage in 1908

For advice on remembering Reading in your will, please contact Hatty Masser at h.masser@reading.ac.uk or on 0118 378 5240.

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In 2010, the Singer Foundation agreed to fund a project enabling law school students from the University of Reading to train in mediation skills, and then to use these skills to benefit others by volunteering at the John Madejski Academy (JMA) in south Reading.

Each year, this funding has enabled around 20 law students to study for a qualification in Community Mediation Skills (the equivalent to a full A level) alongside their degree.

These students then volunteer for the Taking Charge of Your Life programme, working with 80 Year 8 pupils at the JMA to help them develop key skills in overcoming conflict and developing personal relationships. Selected pupils are offered the chance to build on these skills by training as peer mediators, playing an important role within their school in resolving conflict between fellow pupils.

The benefits to this project include:

For the Year 8 pupils: Building pupil relationships and giving pupils inspirational role models

For our law students: Transferable skills and work experience

‘The training in mediation with Resolve is one of my most invaluable achievements. The skills that were taught are incredibly helpful both for the legal world of dispute resolution and for real-life use.’

Priscilla Chin, University of Reading law student

THE CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROJECT

Taking Charge of Your Life was an extremely useful project which significantly increased my confidence and my aspirations. Whilst participating in the project I built my knowledge surrounding the law industry and I got to meet law students who were studying at Reading. When speaking to them, I learned about the different careers within law, and the different activities they had to participate in at university. I am currently looking into applying to the University of Reading to study law.

Brandon Hussain, JMA pupil

We are very grateful to the trustees of the Singer Foundation for supporting this project which continues to have such a profound impact at the John Madjeski Academy and on our students at the University.

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The prizes this year were awarded as follows:

Gold: Kate Goudsmit (Pictured)

Silver: Matthew Standage

Bronze: Emily Whiteside

VINCENT MA AWARDThe Vincent Ma Award is funded each year by Design Portfolio, in memory of an exceptional man. Vince Ma was a Typography student at Reading and went on to become a Director at Design Portfolio while still in his twenties. Tragically, he never reached the milestone of 30 years of age. Each year, three exceptional students are awarded prizes in memory of Vince, and the first and second place students are also offered summer placements at Design Portfolio. The connection between Design Portfolio and Reading remains important to each side, and, as well as the regular student placements, a Reading alumnus is currently working for them full-time.

The placement at DP was an amazing experience and I could not have imagined beforehand how much I would have learned by the end. For me, the Vincent Ma Award was a formal recognition of my hard work for the Part Two section of my degree. Through winning the award, I have been more motivated for my last and most important year.Kate Goudsmit, Gold award winner

The Vincent Ma Award is very special for Typography. First, it commemorates a Reading graduate who was both successful and popular in his professional career. Second, it provides public recognition, financial support, and an exciting work placement opportunity for our highest achieving students. And finally it represents the vital links we have with the design and creative industries.Paul Luna, Head of Typography & Graphic Communication

Over the past five years we have been able to offer work placements to seven winners of the prize and we have employed two students who have studied at Reading. As an employer, we feel proud that we have been able to give students this opportunity, and as a university, Reading have allowed us to continue achieving our goal.Alison Carey, Finance Director, Design Portfolio

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Some of our supporters not only donate funds to aid our campaigns, but also donate their time to help with projects and events at the University. These cover a great range of disciplines, from giving lectures in Law, to mentoring in Film, Theatre and TV to volunteering with the Food Science Department.

For more information on how you can get involved please email alumni@reading.ac.uk.

FILM, THEATRE AND TELEVISIONLaurence MillerLaurence regularly assists the Film, Theatre and Television Department by mentoring current students. He has also offered placements.

‘I am currently the Commercial Director for Nimax Theatre who own six West End theatres. It’s my job to find the shows, work with producers and generally make the show the best it can be.

I studied in Bulmershe and kept a close connection with the department, especially Lib Taylor.

She introduced me to some lecturers who organise mentoring, they asked

me if I wanted to mentor and I said yes straight away.

I had a special time at Reading and enjoyed it immensely. I really wanted to help current students.

It keeps a connection with the department that

is special to me. It is very different now, especially with

the recent new building, and I enjoy keeping up with it.

I know the value of work experience. An industry like theatre is very competitive and it is difficult to break into it. I wanted to help give students that first break. Work experience gave me my first break while I was still at school. I managed to get work experience in a West End theatre. I was cleaning, scrubbing floors, running errands etc. I already had my place at Reading, but the theatre said that if I took a year out I could have the manager’s assistant role. Reading allowed me to defer entry so I could take that opportunity. I met Nica Burns that year and I still work with her today.

I enjoy working with Reading students. The mix of practical and theoretical study

that the Reading course offers makes you think differently. It was what attracted me to the course and what made me choose it over others. Other courses train you to be an actor or a stage manager; this course doesn’t train you but it teaches you to think

in a different way, and this is what I notice about Reading students.’

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FOOD SCIENCENick Henson and Graeme Wilding both volunteer with the Food Science Department as members of the Industrial Advisory Board. Nick assists with career management skills and Graeme with preparing students for industrial placements.

Nick

What inspired you to take part?

Although somewhat of a

cliché, I felt positive about being able to share my varied industry experience with the group that set me up for a career in the food industry.

What have you gained from your work with the University?

The IAB in particular is a great forum to hear, air and share views from academia and industry. I’ve learnt from understanding the challenge that the University faces in balancing its learning, academic and research position with the need to be ‘market-aware’ in ensuring it is in touch with, and relevant to, the food industry.

In particular, I have loved being part of the UCAS days to share insights with the sixth formers looking to study food science. I hope that my experiences will help inspire more students to pursue this area as a career choice.

Graeme

What inspired you to take part?

When I was looking into my career choice

it was really hard to find good quality information about food science and technology. It’s our responsibility as an industry to make sure that we are in a place where we can get this information to the future talent pipeline to make well informed choices on their careers, promote their curiosity and attract the best future talent to our industry.

What have you gained from your work with the University?

As well as seeing curious and talented young people develop on their career journey in the industry, the industrial board allows industry reps from across a broad range of companies in the food industry, who would normally be in a competitive relationship, to come together and combine all our skills, knowledge, experience and resources in supporting and developing future talent.

POLITICSRob Wilson MPRob has offered two-week work placements to our Government and Politics students for the several years.

‘As a former student I wanted to offer my help and support to current students in gaining relevant experience in the workplace. Working for an MP can help provide a significant differentiator for young people applying to jobs. It’s always great to have young people around who want to learn and get on. They bring enthusiasm and a different perspective, and generally the quality and dedication of Reading students has been high.

In my experience Reading has some very intelligent and highly motivated students who can add value to an employer in a work placement.

A university education is important and I got a particularly good one at Reading. It’s a terrific, if slightly undersold, university. Anyone who has a Reading education should be well prepared for the world of work afterwards.’

LAWSam RobinsonSam is currently working with us to organise a placement for a Reading student at the law firm Paul Robinson Solicitors

‘I had a fantastic time at the University of Reading and I was keen to give something back. In addition I thought it would be good for my company to be associated with such a prestigious university. This placement will help to raise our profile and it is hoped that, for the mutual benefit of this company and Reading students, a few students will take up their careers with this company.’

OVERSEAS VOLUNTEERSGiving back to your university can be done in many ways and our International Alumni Ambassadors are a prime example. Twenty ambassadors based across the world regularly volunteer their time and experience to advise prospective students on studying at Reading. From Skype chats, to informal meet ups and pre-departure briefings, alumni give valuable advice to prospective students and parents and can make them feel part of the Reading community even before they arrive.

Informal meet up in Brunei organised by our ambassador Raihan Nokman

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MENTORING PROGRAMME The RREF Mentoring Programme was set up in 2008 and aims to offer as many undergraduates and postgraduates as possible the opportunity to have a one to one connection with a real estate professional in the industry to better prepare them for employment. Each mentor gives their time freely, and commits to meeting with their mentee three to four times per year, with regular contact in between. Whilst some mentors are Reading alumni who wish to maintain an active connection with their University, others are real estate professionals wishing to help current students.

The programme is thought to be the largest of its kind in the UK and in 2013 there was the capacity for over 300 partnerships. Demand from students is growing each year, whereby now every undergraduate and postgraduate student who wants to participate is allocated a mentor.

‘One of the very best ways we, as practitioners, can help students is to offer them an insight into our experiences and here they have the opportunity to have a one to one connection with an alumnus. This is a great opportunity for us all to give something back to Reading and to share the benefit of our experiences with some of the brightest and keenest students in the country who will soon be entering our industry.’

Bryan Laxton, Partner, Cushman & Wakefield and RREF Trustee

VOLUNTEERINGHenley Business School

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS Henley Business School’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are UK based groups run by alumni for alumni with support from the Alumni Relations team. They bring together alumni with a shared interest in specific industries, sectors or business aspects and provide platforms for debate and learning around relevant topics and themes within the SIG’s area of focus.

The SIGs have volunteer committees who help to organise events and activities for the groups. Alumni volunteers usually serve on the committees for two to three years and spend about 25–30 hours of time each year in addition to attending ‘their’ events. Many of the SIG committee members comment about the fantastic networking opportunities they discover within the alumni community as part of their support for the Business School in this way.

INTERNATIONAL ALUMNI GROUPS With over 40% of Henley alumni based outside the UK the international alumni associations and groups truly reflect the global footprint of Henley’s alumni network. The international alumni associations and groups are run by dedicated alumni volunteers, with some support from the Alumni Relations team. They create local hubs for the Business School’s alumni to connect with each other and to strengthen their relationship with the School. The events and activities organised by the international alumni groups offer both social and professional networking opportunities to alumni in their region – may these be based there permanently, temporarily or just passing through on business.

Alumni volunteers in the international associations also help raising awareness about Henley and its world-class programmes, whether through high profile local events, engaging key local business leaders in their events or by supporting School staff at regional education fairs, talking to potential students and programme members.

GRADUATING CLASS GIFT The Graduating Class Gift initiative was established in 2011 to encourage graduating MBA students to start giving to the Henley Alumni Fund soon after they complete their course. The Henley Alumni Fund in turn supports future MBA students through the provision of bursaries and the Hardship Fund.

Each year’s campaign is led by volunteers from the participating classes who lead by example in giving first, who sign the campaign letters to their classmates and who are ambassadors for the initiative. In supporting their business school in this way the volunteers and donors know that they are demonstrating their support of business education and the future of their Business School, whilst strengthening their ongoing connection to Henley.

Jack Haining (mentee of the year 2013) and John Woolsey (mentor)

Alumni event in Singapore featuring some of our committee

members from the Singapore Alumni Association

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SANTANDER branch opening

The Santander University of Reading branch was officially opened by Santander UK CEO Ana Botin and Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell on Thursday 1 May. Ms Botin, who was schooled locally at St Mary’s, Ascot, cut the ribbon for the branch before attending a question and answer session hosted by Sir David Bell.

She described Reading as a ‘fantastic university’ in a ‘beautiful location’ and discussed how the relationship between Santander and the University is mutually beneficial. She answered questions ranging in topics from the quality of UK students to the loss of trust in the banks, and made clear how Santander values the local branch. Although the world of banking is changing, Ms Botin still sees the importance of an accessible branch, and even if very few students take the opportunity to use it, she still feels it is important that ‘If you need us, we are here’.

Reading is one of 72 UK universities to have signed agreements with Santander Universities Division. Since signing this formal agreement in 2012, Santander has invested more than £150,000 in Reading including:

• Four £4,000 postgraduate scholarships from Latin America

• An annual elite summer training camp for the University’s rowers in Banyoles, near Girona, Spain

• A weeklong Summer Start-Up Boot Camp run by the Henley Centre for Entrepreneurship

• Part-funded internships; two mobility scholarships; and a Formula Santander Scholarship.

The branch marks Santander’s ongoing commitment to the University. The partnership has provided life-changing funding to students across our institution. We look forward to working together for years to come.Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell

We are living in very exciting times. Exponential change means great opportunities.Ana Botin

For more information on any of these volunteering opportunities, please visit www.henley.ac.uk

ALUMNI AND DEVELOPMENT

ADVISORY BOARDSThe Henley Business School Alumni and Development Advisory Board was established in 2013 with MBA alumna Helen Gordon, CEO of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society as its founding Chair.

The Advisory Board helps the Business School to shape and inform its future

alumni relations and fundraising work. It is comprised of alumni drawn from

across all parts of the Henley community who can act as both representatives of and

advocates for their specific group.

The Alumni and Development Advisory Board meets approximately three times each year with meetings

taking place in London, Henley-on-Thames or Reading.

The RREF Alumni Board is responsible for developing and implementing a fundraising and events strategy to increase industry and alumni engagement and raise funds for the Foundation.

The Board is made up of the Development Committee (approximately five members) and the Events Committee (approximately ten members) all of whom are alumni volunteers who give their time freely to support the aims of the charity.

Each of the committees comes together four times per year, to review progress and agree on the way forward, but the real work happens in between these meetings, when committee members together with RREF staff meet with potential supporters; secure high-profile speakers; and encourage others to support the aims of RREF.

Bryan Laxton, Chair of the Events Committee and the panel at the 2013 Annual Debate

GIVING MATTERS For more information, please contact:

Samantha Horsfield, Communications and Supporter Engagement Officer

University of Reading Blandford Lodge Whiteknights Reading, RG6 6AH

s.l.horsfield@reading.ac.uk Tel (0118) 378 4480

www.reading.ac.uk/alumni

Blandy & Blandy solicitors is proud to sponsor Giving Matters. The firm, established in 1733, is located in the heart of Reading and has developed strong affiliations with the University of Reading over a number of years, and we are pleased to have a significant number of alumni within our staff. With specialist lawyers across family, private client, corporate, commercial, employment, litigation, planning and property work, we are on hand to help you, offering a professional solution and peace of mind.

EXCELLENCE | INTEGRITY | APPROACHABILITY

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