Olympic effort

Global updates

Spotlight on: Anji Hunter, Julien MacDonald and Dr Fasil Tekola Ayele

Issue 29

Alumnus of the yearand the winner is... you tell us.

Do you know anyone who studied at the University of Brighton (or its predecessor or partner institutions) who deserves recognition for their achievements?

Have they made an outstanding, noteworthy achievement in the arts, science, sports, business, health, public, social science, academic or public life? Do you know a former student who has made a major contribution to the lives of others, or who has overcome significant personal hardship?

Each year we will be awarding one member of our global alumni community with our prestigious Alumnus Award and we are always keen to hear of inspiring graduates. The award will be conferred every February at our Brighton ceremonies.

Contact alumni@brighton.ac.uk for further information or to make a nomination.

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 WELCOME 01

Welcome to your alumni magazine, particularly our newest graduates of 2012.

Over the past year, the UK has come under the spotlight as we’ve witnessed some landmark events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and London 2012. Next year, we celebrate our own milestone, as we commemorate 21 years of university status. We would love to hear your thoughts on how you would like to mark the occasion.

Since launching our Alumni Advice Network, we have received some amazing offers of help from our alumni community. Over 500 of you have come forward to volunteer your experience and talents, and the difference this makes to our students is tangible. Whether it has been sharing specialist expertise, inspiring students with keynote speeches, mentoring undergraduates or participating in interview panels – your input really adds value – thank you so much. Please contact us if you would like to join the scheme – alumni@brighton.ac.uk.

This autumn we welcome our first cohort of higher fee-paying students. This places new challenges on our community but we are confident in the quality of our courses and determined to ensure that our students’ experience remains positive and value for money.

We are also delighted to welcome more of our international alumni to the LinkedIn groups and hope that you are making the most of our online webinars and event streams.

Over the last year the university has put into place a number of forward-looking initiatives to prepare our students for the world of work. Employability and enterprise are now firmly embedded in every curriculum with the help of our alumni and employability champions in each school.

We love hearing from you, so keep sending us your news and don’t forget to update your contact details if you move house or change email address.

With best wishes from your development and alumni team

We are pleased to welcome our newest cohort of nearly 5,000 alumni to our thriving alumni community. We celebrate your achievements and applaud your determination and efforts in completing your course.

It is always a bittersweet time saying goodbye to our students but one that is also imbued with pride and confidence that you leave the university enriched with an education that betters your life and the lives around you. Hopefully your university education will have opened your eyes to an ever-expanding horizon, one in which our society is constantly changing and with it your need to refresh your skills and knowledge. The alumni association hopes to bridge this gap – so please keep in touch and make use of the opportunities it offers – no matter how long ago you graduated.

Despite the shadow cast by the new fees regime, we are the fourteenth most applied to university in the UK, having received over 34,000 applications. This trajectory reflects the quality and relevance of our courses as well as our strong links with professions and employers.

Our commitment to providing a high quality student experience continues. The university rose nine places in the Guardian University Guide league table. We are also proud to have scaled the green league and were ranked third out of 145 universities and higher education institutes for sustainability.

I am delighted to share with you that we recently became one of a handful of UK universities to receive an Excellence in Research Award from the European Union. This is a fitting testimony to the strong contemporary focus of our research and the international awards our researchers continue to garner.

As always, I want to thank you for supporting the university – whether that is financially, publicly or in-kind. It makes an enormous difference.

ContentsWelcome 01

Alumni news 02

University news 04

Research news 06

London 2012 08Celebrating our Great Brightonians with a proud overview of Brighton’s involvement with the Olympic and Paralympic games

Stitching up a global career 12We catch up with international fashion designer, Julien MacDonald

International focus 14Putting Brighton on the map

Taking it all in her stride… 18Anji Hunter gives us an insight into her working day

Best foot forward 20A profile of BSMS alumnus, Dr Fasil Tekola Ayele

Bygone Brighton 22Take a peek at our alumni’s memories and get involved in our timeline project

Careers update 23Helping you make the most of your degree

What difference will you make? 24The importance of legacies

The Brighton Effect is published by the Development and Alumni Office FREEPOST SEA8437 University of Brighton BN2 4ZZTel: +44 (0)1273 642600 alumni@brighton.ac.uk www.brighton.ac.uk/alumni @brightonalumni (Twitter)

The views expressed in the magazine are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of the University of Brighton.

Editor Sarah Grant Designer Mark ToynbeeContributors Faye Brown, Andrew Scanlan, Alexandra Klyuchnikova, Phil Mills, Tracy Atchison, Rebecca HaroutunianPrinted by Pureprint Group, a CarbonNeutral® company registered to environmental standards ISO 14001 Cover image Olympian body cast of British gymnast Beth Tweddle by alumna, Louise Giblin (Sculpture BA(Hons) 1985).

© University of Brighton 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior consent of the publishers.

Dear alumni and friends

Professor Julian Crampton,Vice-Chancellor

To enquire about receiving this magazine in other formats, please contact us on +44 (0)1273 642600 or email alumni@brighton.ac.uk.

Talent on showA new cohort of over 500 graduating students from the Faculty of Arts exhibited works in June in the annual public Graduate Show 2012 – Up and Beyond.

Over 40 students were awarded prizes during the faculty award ceremony, including Emily Barrett, Visual Communication BA(Hons), whose intricate installations are painstakingly crafted and Balint Revesc, Performance and Visual Arts, who received two awards for his emotive documentary exploring cultural perspectives through family histories.

For a full list of the award winners, and to explore the work of the faculty’s newest alumni visit http://arts.brighton.ac.uk.

02 ALUMNI NEWS THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29

From UK to HK

Micheil Gordon and Jon Lee (both Environmental Studies BSc(Hons) 2009) undertook an epic cycle ride from the UK to Hong Kong to raise funds for a water charity.

Their venture piqued the interest of our alumni chapter in Hong Kong which immediately offered support and encouragement during their endeavours. In total, their 17,000km cycle-ride raised £21,206 for WaterAid.

Our Hong Kong alumni have their own chapter on LinkedIn and a group on Facebook. Do contact us if you would like to join it – alumni@brighton.ac.uk.

Taking Brighton by storm

Fatboy Slim (aka British Studies BA 1985 alumnus, Norman Cook) was pretty visible around the campus this year. His management company offered promotional work experience to one of our Hastings students, Bobby Thrower, and Norman turned up as a special guest for a live interview on our student radio station, BURST in January.

In June, he rocked the city with the Big Beach Bootique 5 at the Amex Community Stadium on our Falmer campus.

Fatboy Slim then turned in a milestone performance when he represented Team GB as he rocked the Olympic Stadium during the closing ceremony of London 2012.

Paralympic test match

Over 30 staff, students and alumni got the opportunity to watch a boccia Paralympic test match at the Olympic stadium in May, thanks to alumna, Sandra King.

Sandra, who graduated with a Human Movement and Education BEd(Hons) in 1978, is the Boccia competition manager for London 2012 and kindly offered the tickets to the university so that she could raise awareness of the sport.

FDM makes top 10

A company headed by Brighton alumni, Sheila Flavell (Marketing MA 2002 and General Management MBA 2004) and Rod Flavell (Human Movement/Human Biology BA 1981), has been placed in the Top Ten IT Employers for Women in 2012.

As FDM’s Chief Operating Officer, Sheila, who is an active member of the university’s ambassador scheme, spearheaded the company’s Women in IT campaign, aimed at encouraging and supporting women in business and IT. FDM is committed to championing women in IT worldwide.

www.fdmgroup.com/uk

Professor C Gull’s graduatesAward-winning children’s author and political cartoonist for The Observer, Chris Riddell, joined over 30 year 6 pupils at a special graduation ceremony at the university in June.

As a member of the Alumni Advice Network, Chris, who graduated with a Graphic Design BA(Hons) in 1984 worked with the university to create the character of Professor C Gull to make student life more appealing to children whose

parents have never been to university.

The children, from Moulsecoomb Primary School, spent the whole day at the university and were presented with their graduation certificates by Chris. The Alumni Advice Network uses the talents and voluntary efforts of alumni to keep them engaged through meaningful activity with the university.

Outstanding debut for Paddy

Editorial Photography graduate (1997) Paddy Considine, scooped a BAFTA at the British Academy of Film, Television and Arts awards for his film, Tyrannosaur.

Paddy wrote and directed the film and the award was made to him and producer, Diarmid Scrimshaw for Outstanding Debut.

Our first Alumnus Award winnerSocial media guru and disability rights campaigner, Julie Howell, was named our first winner of the University of Brighton Alumnus Award. Julie (Library and Information Studies BA(Hons) 1992) was honoured at the February 2012 winter awards ceremony.

The award recognised her public campaigning for the university, the support she has given students, her championing of diversity and equality issues, her achievements in setting up advocacy websites for people with disabilities, such as the Jooly’s Joint website which is accessed by 60,000 people with

MS, and her work as a mentor with the university’s award-winning Momentum scheme. She was one of the first members of the university’s Alumni Advice Network.

If you have a nomination for the 2013 Alumnus Awards we would love to hear from you.

www.brighton.ac.uk/alumni

Nationwide success for enterprising alumnusLast year’s Enterprise Award winner, David Ferguson (Business Administration with Law BA(Hons) 2002), recently signed a deal with a major DIY retail chain to sell his innovative loft storage solution across the UK.

The product, Loft Storage Stilts will make it simple for a person to create a raised storage platform in their loft, therefore allowing them to have loft space fully insulated to government standards without losing any storage space.

www.brighton.ac.uk/careers/enterprise/enterprise-awards

http://loftstoragestilts.com

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 ALUMNI NEWS 03

Tackling dementia

Sasha Ahmad (Criminology MA 2010) has been helping carers of people with dementia to take more control of their lives as part of an award-winning NHS pilot.

The innovative scheme recently won the £3,000 runner up prize at the prestigious GlaxoSmithKline Impact Awards 2012. Sasha’s work on the Carers Support Services project aims to improve the physical and mental health and wellbeing of carers across West Sussex by providing them with an annual personal health budget and a support worker who gives one-to-one assistance.

World record hockey

Last year’s Sports Alumnus Award winner, Gary Marlow (Physical Education with QTS BA(Hons) 2003), joined 31 other members of Crawley Hockey Club to make history with a 34-hour game of hockey, smashing the previous world record by three hours.

The match was organised in memory of club member Sue Smith, who sadly passed away in late 2011. Over £16,000 was raised for St Catherine’s Hospice.

Turning music around

Performance and Visual Art (Music) BA(Hons) 2009 alumnus, Adam Place, has created a spherical keyboard covered in tactile pods which could revolutionise the way musicians play the instrument. Adam is now bringing the AlphaSphere into production with his Bristol-based company, Nu Desine, which consists of a team of musicians, engineers, and developers. AlphaSphere has 48 tactile pods arranged on a modular sphere, a radical move away from the traditional linear keyboard, which allows musicians to produce electronic music in a more expressive way.

www.nu-desine.com

Bag reborn

Richard Simmonite (Design and Technology PGCE 2011) made the finals of a national competition – The Venture Candy – with his recyclable carrier bag Bag Re:Born. Bag Re:Born is an innovative range of reusable and transformable multi-use carrier bags, aimed at combating the over-consumption of single-use bags.

Richard is now working in partnership with one of the UK’s leading packaging specialists, and together they are developing the product ready for market.

www.bagreborn.com

Blazing a trail for women in technologyTwo University of Brighton alumnae have been nationally recognised as trailblazers in the world of technology.

The Cisco Everywoman in Technology Awards acknowledge inspirational women in the technology industry. Sheila Flavell (Marketing MA and General Management MBA 2004), chief operating officer at the FDM Group, scooped Leader of the Year in a corporate organisation award and Mandy Chessell (Software Engineering MSc 1996), Master Inventor and Distinguished Engineer for IBM, won Innovator of the Year award.

The life-saving puppy

A puppy is being trained to use his nose to detect when his owner, who has Type 1 diabetes, needs life-saving glucose.

Treacle sniffs molecules on his owner’s skin and will raise the alarm if he detects sugar levels are below safe levels. He will bark, lay still and paw at his owner if she does not respond.

The ‘Cavapoo’, a King Charles spaniel-toy poodle cross, is a potential life saver, according to owner Dr Moira Harrison, a

principal lecturer in diabetes in the university’s School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences. Treacle is with Dr Harrison 24 hours every day and will raise the alarm in the middle of the night if needs be. He is a star attraction among Dr Harrison’s pharmacy and medical students.

When Treacle is fully trained he will give Dr Harrison added security and peace of mind, and the number of blood tests she needs will be reduced.

Honorary graduates 2012

We are delighted to welcome the following people to our prestigious list of honorary graduates this year: •Johnny Ball•Helen Boaden•Nick Cave•Harvey Goldsmith CBE•David Lepper•Professor Baroness Ruth

Lister of Burtersett CBE FBA AcSS

•Professor Sir Alex Markham•Ghazi Nujeidat•Dame Professor Linda

Partridge•Michael Rosen•Deyan Sudjic OBE•Matthew Taylor.

Celebrating Black History Month

Each October the university celebrates national Black History Month by holding events across our campuses. The programme so far includes displays, film screenings and seminars that explore and celebrate the histories of our diverse student and staff communities.

If you have an experience or story from your time at Brighton that you would like to contribute to the project, we would welcome your input. Please contact alumni@brighton.ac.uk.

Eastbourne schools merger

On 1 August, the School of Service Management and the Chelsea School of Sport were merged to form the School of Sport and Service Management. The merger draws upon the strengths of the previous schools to develop a new school of national and international standing with a diverse and distinctive portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, and a strong commitment to research, and social and economic engagement. Professor Jo Doust (formerly head of the Chelsea School of Sport) will head up the new school and Dr Paul Frost (formerly head of the School of Service Management) will become its deputy head.

UBSU and The Guardian pair up

Brighton Students’ Union (UBSU) is has partnered with The Guardian newspaper to develop the academic services and resources it can offer its student members.

In a sector-leading partnership, The Guardian is creating links with student-led academic events, including the recent Excellence Awards. Over the next year The Guardian hopes to work with UBSU to run activities which support student academic societies and course representatives.

Our creative campusA cultural collaboration between 13 universities in the south-east which included the universities of Brighton and Sussex, has won gold at the Podium London 2012 awards. It won the best creative cultural project at the awards, which celebrate the vital role played by colleges and universities across the UK in delivering the London 2012 Olympic Games.

The universities of Brighton and Sussex joined forces to create a programme of innovative and dynamic cultural events inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012. Leading artists and performers collaborated with students, academics, school and communities to create new works and events which embraced, challenged and reinvented the Olympic spirit.

04 UNIVERSITY NEWS THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29

Raising aspirations in Hastings

Ten students who have overcome huge obstacles to pursue their studies were chosen as the first recipients of a new award set up by a group of donors led by a University of Brighton alumna.

The students were presented with a Hastings and Rother Aspiration Award at a ceremony at the university’s Hastings campus.

The awards were established to support and encourage students from the Hastings and Rother area who face significant challenges in their day-to-day lives. The donors behind the new awards are led by Annette and Bill Shelford. Annette graduated in 2010 with a degree in English literature and media studies from the Hastings campus.

Since graduating, Annette has been heavily involved in promoting the Hastings campus and its widening participation agenda.

Through Annette’s efforts and working with the university’s Development and Alumni Office, almost £25,000 has been donated to support this initiative. The first 10 students to receive this award each received £500. To mark the launch of this awards scheme, the student recipients were invited to attend a prize-giving ceremony to publically recognise their achievements and also to have the opportunity to meet some of the donors who have generously contributed.

The awards will be made yearly. To find out more about these awards or to donate, please contact development@brighton.ac.uk.

Students rebrand The South of England Show

Brighton Business School students teamed up with the South of England Agricultural Society to rebrand The Spring Garden and Leisure Show, The South of England Show, The Autumn Show and Game Fair, and The Festive Food and Drink Fayre.

Four teams presented their rebranding ideas to judges from the university and the South of England Agricultural Society. The panel judged the work based on a creative brief which reflected the heritage of the society in a modern way, while communicating the activities and ethos of each show. The winning team, Cultivate, had its new design showcased at the South of England Show.

Top award for student support

Congratulations to our Student Services department which has achieved the Matrix Standard award for the third consecutive time. The award highlights the dedication of our support teams in delivering high quality support to the university’s students.

This professional advice and guidance is vital in enabling all students to achieve their best during their time at university.

Operating at the highest level

Kishan Moosai, a year 4 student from Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), received a year’s student affiliation to the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh (RSCEd) when he won the Kent, Surrey and Sussex, and Wessex heat of a nationwide surgical skills competition.

The Lister Surgical Skills Competition was organised by RCSEd in association with Johnson & Johnson Medical Companies to commemorate the life and contribution of Lord Joseph Lister, ‘the father of modern surgery’. Over 300 medical students across the UK entered.

Mentoring scheme gathers momentum

The university’s award-winning mentoring scheme, Momentum, is branching out. From the new academic year, it will also feature a programme especially for students based at our Hastings campus. Momentum matches students with professionals and managers on a one-to-one basis, to help students build their confidence and skills for the workplace. We are always keen to take up alumni offers of help so please contact alumni@brighton.ac.uk if you would like to be involved.

www.brighton.ac.uk/careers

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 UNIVERSITY NEWS 05

First class honour for green university

The University of Brighton has been recognised as one of the nation’s top universities for sustainability. We were ranked third out of 145 universities and higher education institutions in the People & Planet’s annual Green League.

People & Planet, which organises the UK’s only independent ranking of universities for their environmental and ethical performance awarded the university a first class honour. Louise Hazan, People & Planet’s climate change Campaigns and Communications Manager, said:

“(Brighton’s) success in integrating sustainability throughout the curriculum and finding creative ways to engage staff and students in the transition to sustainability is exemplary.”

The university achieved maximum points in several categories including curriculum, student and staff engagement, ethical investment and environmental policy, and it scored highly for environmental staff, environmental auditing, carbon management, sustainable food and renewable energy sources.

www.brighton.ac.uk/sustainability

NSS success

Thank you to all our newest alumni who took part in the National Student Survey. We achieved our best ever response with 2,785 of our final year students completing the survey.

Your feedback provides us with genuine insight into the student experience. This is vital in how we review and improve courses and services, helping the university adapt and continue to be a place of which we are all proud. This year National Student Survey data will also be published in the new Key Information Set, giving prospective students comparable information about undergraduate courses on all university websites.

The campaign was so effective that our Brighton Students’ Union won the award for NSS Promotional Campaign of the Year at this year’s annual National Union of Students Higher Education Awards ceremony 2012.

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Jubilee visitors

The Earl and Countess of Wessex, Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, visited the Falmer Sports Centre on 4 July, representing Her Majesty the Queen as part of the Diamond Jubilee tour.

They attended a Powerchair football competition at our Sports Centre where they were welcomed by Sarah Hogg, Head of Sport and Recreation at the university, Chairman of Brighton and Hove Albion, Tony Bloom and Alan Saunders, Joint Managing Director of Albion in the Community.

The royal couple ended their visit with a reception at the Royal Pavilion in Brighton where they met local dignitaries including Vice-Chancellor Professor Julian Crampton.

Calling all potential PhD studentsUp to 40 new research studentships valued at up to £55,650 each are being offered by the University of Brighton’s new Doctoral College. The studentships will support full-time PhD study over a three-year period starting in the 2012/2013 academic year, for projects across the range of topics in the arts and humanities, life and physical sciences, and the social sciences. The university’s support for researcher development which includes the annual Future’s Bright conference for early career and doctoral researchers

was recognised this year with the prestigious European HR Excellence in Research award. The studentships are open to UK/EU and international candidates, with the award for international

students being of the same overall value and covering international tuition fees and a contribution towards living expenses. www.brighton.ac.uk/researchstudy/doctoral-college

Sunny side up Ever the innovators, three colleagues from the School of Service Management’s Brighton Hospitality Research group have obtained a parabolic solar cooker using a University of Brighton Springboard grant.

The solar cooker will enable the team to run a series of sensory analysis experiments to both showcase the possibilities of free energy and educate participants and the public on the uses of parabolic mirrors.

The project team comprising Dr Ioannis Pantelidis, Gillian Parfitt and Ken Woodward, intends for the solar cooker to be utilised by students and the hospitality research team.

Another part of the experiment involves students cooking fresh produce straight from the Culinary Arts Studio gardens. The cooker also complements the university’s carbon footprint reduction initiative.

The Springboard Grants Programme provides awards of up to £1,000, to students and staff to help fund unique activities that enrich and enhance the student experience.

The grants are funded through the generosity of alumni and friends of the university.

For details of our Springboard programme, please contact alumni@brighton.ac.uk.

06 RESEARCH NEWS THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29

River expert to lead geomorphology society

Phil Ashworth, Professor of Physical Geography, has been elected designate chair of the British Society for Geomorphology (BSG) – which leads the UK’s foremost specialists in how our landscapes are shaped.

The BSG is the professional organisation responsible for developing excellence in geomorphological research (the scientific study of landforms and the processes that shape them), influencing policy agendas on landscape use and development, and developing the next generation of geomorphologists.

Brighton researchers dig for data

Historians, archivists and experts in computer science from the universities of Brighton and York are teaming up to develop new ways of exploring digital historical records. Working with colleagues from Canada, the USA and the Netherlands, the researchers will develop tools to allow people to work effectively and efficiently with the vast amounts of historic material being digitised.

The international partnership has received over £420,000 funding under the prestigious international grant competition Digging into Data Challenge for the project ChartEx (charter excavator).

Dean appointed to AHRC board

Professor Anne Boddington, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, has been appointed to the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Advisory Board. The board meets four times a year to advise the council on the development of strategies that reflect the AHRC’s charter and the challenges facing arts and humanities research.

Professor Mark Llewellyn, AHRC director of research, said: “The AHRC benefits greatly from the research experience and expertise that our advisory board members have. We are very pleased to welcome Anne to the board.”

Professor joins call for more research funding

Adrian Bone, Professor of Cell and Molecular Biology, joined forces with Brighton MP Caroline Lucas in supporting calls for the government to commit more funding to Type 1 diabetes research. Adrian is leading one of the most innovative research projects to find a cure for the disease. It has shown that, contrary to popular belief, insulin-producing beta-cells attempt to replicate themselves in response to the development of diabetes.

This offers hope that it might be possible to develop therapies which could allow some patients with Type 1 diabetes to renew their own capacity to produce insulin.

Learning through gaming

Pupils from 30 schools in India and 15 schools in the UK will ditching their notebooks in favour of games consoles thanks to a new initiative.

Dr Tim Rudd (pictured below)from the university’s School of Education is leading the research and evaluation aspect of a British Council Project to making learning more fun. It comes in the wake of the launch of new low-cost, stripped down computer technology, such as the Beagleboard and the Raspberry Pi, which can be re-used for educational purposes.

The university project will look at how computer games can be used by teachers in schools across India to make learning more engaging as well as increasing the use of IT in classrooms without breaking the education budget.

grants programme

University of Brighton begins e-bike trial Our Faculty of Arts is leading a project that will involve trials of smart e-bikes on the streets of Brighton, as part of research into sustainable transport and mobile media.

Led by media studies lecturer, Dr Frauke Behrendt, the project aims to understand how people use e-bikes, and how smartphones can monitor this use and give useful feedback to riders. The results will help improve sustainable transport in the UK.

The e-bikes used in the study (also known as pedelecs) are electrically assisted bicycles that enable people to cycle for work or pleasure with motorised support. The rider still has to pedal – but the rechargeable battery assistance can make it easier to cycle,

especially against the wind or uphill. Brighton & Hove City Council is a project partner, and it is hoped that the work will further add to the city’s reputation for environmental awareness.

The project is also linked with the work taking place in the Lewes Road area, funded by the Department for Transport’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund.www.smart-ebikes.com

On the trail of foxes In April, Dr Dawn Scott, principal lecturer in the university’s biology and biomedical sciences division took part in a nationwide TV research into the life of foxes. Dawn appeared on Channel 4’s Foxes Live: Wild in the City in April. Dawn worked in collaboration with Windfall Films and Brighton & Hove Council and Sussex Wildlife Trust. Her role involved tracking and following urban foxes in Brighton.

The programme was a new interactive natural history event carrying out what has been described as the biggest nationwide study into urban foxes in the UK.

Dawn said: “The research will increase our knowledge of urban foxes and will provide us with a better understanding of their ecology.”

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 RESEARCH NEWS 07

Relationships improve wellbeing in old age

Relationships with family, friends, health and social workers, as well as encounters in public places, are important to older people’s wellbeing. An innovative project, led by Professor Marian Barnes and Dr Lizzie Ward, from the School of Applied Social Science, and Dr Beatrice Gahagan, senior manager at Age UK Brighton & Hove, highlights that, whilst many older people are enjoying their lives, some find it hard to sustain a sense of wellbeing. The research findings will be used by Age UK Brighton & Hove and local authority service providers in thinking about how to meet older people’s needs and support their wellbeing.www.brighton.ac.uk/sass/older-people-wellbeing-and-participation

Heart failure research could save NHS millions

Christine Watson, a senior lecturer from the School of Nursing and Midwifery is conducting research that could save the NHS millions of pounds by treating heart patients in their own homes. The two-year project in Hastings and Rother, is one of 12 pilot schemes around the country, financed by the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

It is evaluating the efficacy and safety of administering medication intravenously to patients with heart failure in their homes rather than in hospital. Christine is working with clinical lead, Dr Hugh McIntyre at the Conquest Hospital in Hastings who devised the national protocol.

Gender specialist wins prestigious award

Dr Kath Browne’s pioneering work on gender and sexualities has won her one of the most prestigious international awards in her field – the Jan Monk Service Award – by the world’s largest professional body of geographers, the Association of American Geographers (AAG).

The award is given by the Geographic Perspectives on Women (GPOW) Speciality Group and recognises her work on women and feminist geography both in the academic and wider public sphere.

International recognition for research

Research by our scientists on the use of nanotechnology to decontaminate polluted water has been highlighted by the world’s leading science publication, Science. The research led by Dr Kseniia Katok in the Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Group has been hailed as a paradigm shift in scientists’ understanding of chemistry. The breakthrough opens the way for more effective, cheaper ways of cleaning mercury-contaminated water. Existing clean-up methods for mercury-polluted water either have low mercury removal capabilities, leave a large chemical waste footprint or are not energy efficient.

Town of runners

Chelsea School of Sport became a star of the small screen when BBC South-East visited in May.

The BBC filmed Sentayehu Eshetu, a coach from a town in Ethiopia who has trained four Olympic gold medallists and numerous world champion runners.

Sentayehu was putting 2010 UK Ironman champion and former student, Yvette Grice, through her paces in the university’s environmental physiology laboratory.

Yvette ran in the altitude chamber at just over 3000m, the altitude of Bekoji in Ethiopia where the Sentayehu is from. He features in a documentary film, Town of Runners, which will be screened internationally throughout the Olympics year.

The screenings mark the beginning of a long-term coaching education partnership between Bekoji and the University of Brighton’s Chelsea School of Sport.

08 LONDON 2012 THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29

DELIVERING A VISION

David Luckes (Sports and Leisure Studies MPhil 1994) was one of the original team behind London’s successful bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games.

He worked with Simon Clegg CBE, former Chief Executive of the British Olympic Association, on the Olympic bid project for five years. David, a logistics expert, produced the document in 2000 which assessed London’s feasibility as a host city.

A former British Olympic hockey player, who represented Great Britain in hockey in three consecutive games, in 1992, 1996 and 2000, David is now Head of Sport Competition at the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and received an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in recognition of his services to the London 2012 games.

David said: “I feel greatly honoured to receive this MBE. The success of London’s bid was the result of a whole team of people and I thank them for their hard work and support.”

FLAMING SUCCESS

The stunning Olympic cauldron that had the world gasping at the opening ceremonies of London 2012 was designed by our honorary graduate Thomas Heatherwick (Doctor of Letters 2008). The cauldron comprised 204 copper petals carried by children from each participating country. Together the petals formed a giant flame, fuelled by natural gas in partnership with EDF energy to ensure the energy consumption was reduced significantly. At 8.5 metres high and weighing 16 tonnes, the impressive cauldron was dismantled at the end of the games, with a piece given to each competing national Olympic committee.

REPORTING ON THE GAMES

New graduates Sunni Upal and Jon Vale (Sport Journalism BA(Hons) 2012) had to forego their own graduation ceremonies this year to take up their roles as press officers for the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG). Russell Moore (Sport Journalism BA(Hons) 2011) who works for the English Table Tennis Association was also selected to report on the games.

Reports from the beach volleyball competition came from one of our Sport Journalism students, Giuseppe Muro, who had a role with LOCOG as beach volleyball correspondent.

ADVANTAGE EASTBOURNE

The University of Brighton helped the Swedish tennis team get match ready for the games at our hi–tech sports facilities. The Swedish team, based in Eastbourne at the Devonshire Park international tennis centre, had access to the university’s Eastbourne campus sports facilities, including £1m worth of specialist physiology and biomechanics equipment based at the university’s School of Service Management and Sport formerly Chelsea School of Sport.

As well as training at the university’s state-of-the-art gym, the Swedish Olympic team, which includes two-time French Open finalist Robin Söderling, also had the benefit of advice from our sports and exercise experts.

Simon Clegg (left) and David Luckes (right) ©Brian Griffin – National Portrait Gallery/BT Road to 2012 Project.

Olympic cauldron taken by alumna, Wendy Philcox.

This summer London 2012 dominated world headlines and with good reason. Here we take a look at some of our Great Brightonians and how they contributed to the Olympic and Paralympic games.

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OLYMPIC POSTER DESIGN

Rachel Whiteread (Fine Art BA(Hons) 1985) was chosen as one of the artists of the official posters for the London 2012 Olympics. Rachel’s poster joined those by some of the UK’s leading artists to be displayed at Tate Britain as part of the London 2012 festival.

Since 1912 every city hosting the Olympics has commissioned a series of posters by the leading artists of the day. The images are available to buy as both posters and limited edition prints. Full details on the posters, limited edition prints and free exhibition at Tate Britain can be found on the London 2012 Festival website. festival.london2012.com

ORGANISING THE BOCCIA

Sandra King (Human Movement and Education BEd(Hons) 1978) has been at the heart of preparations for the London Paralympics. As competition manager for boccia at London 2012, Sandra was responsible for running this large-scale event, providing the service that the international federation requests and the International Paralympic Committee approves.

WINNING MEDALS

Winning athletes at the 2012 Paralympic Games took home medals designed by University of Brighton graduate, Lin Cheung (3D Materials Practice BA(Hons) 1994).

BADGE OF HONOUR

Julia Zeen (Illustration BA(Hons) 2004) designed the Olympic lapel badges that have become a massive craze among millions of games fans around the world. Julia and fellow designer Stuart Langley, won a commission from sponsor Coca-Cola and came up with 182 official London 2012 pins. Part of her reward was being a torchbearer for the Olympic flame when it passed through Lancing in West Sussex.

SYMBOLIC OPENING

The Paralympics opening ceremony paid homage to Marc Quinn’s iconic sculpture of artist and Brighton alumna, Alison Lapper MBE (Fine Art BA(Hons) 1992), by featuring a giant reproduction of his work, Alison Lapper Pregnant. The original statue of Alison famously graced the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square in 2005 and was selected to feature at the Olympic Stadium because it represented “an icon of the creative and inclusive city that London is”.

Olympic poster and Paralympic medals.(credit © LOCOG)

David Stone MBE and Dr Gary Brickley (right).

PEDALLING FOR GLORY

Dr Gary Brickley (Sport Science BSc(Hons) 1994, Sport and Leisure Studies PhD 2000 and Cardiology MSc 2003) is a senior lecturer in exercise physiology at School of Service Management and Sport and coaches GB Paralympic cyclists. He applies the latest scientific understanding to the training of athletes. His cyclists won eight gold medals and one silver medal in Beijing and two gold and one silver in Athens. Gary also worked at the Sydney Paralympics. For London 2012 he worked with three cyclists – Sarah Storey OBE, Dr Darren Kenny OBE and David Stone MBE. Gary’s work with the Team GB paracyclists clearly paid off as they dominated the medal table, starting with Sarah Storey scooping GB’s first gold medal followed by another three golds. As one of the most successful paracyclists ever, Dr Darren Kenny OBE is a multiple world and Paralympic champion, and world record holder. Darren was made an honorary graduate of the University of Brighton in 2010. At London 2012 Darren won a silver and a bronze medal in the track events.

David Stone MBE (Social Work BA(Hons) 2007) – already a double Paralympic gold medallist – added to his medal collection by bringing home a bronze earlier in the Mixed T1–2 Time Trial. David’s crowning glory came when he dominated the final road race to bring home Team GB’s last gold medal on the penultimate day of the games, describing it as the best race he had ever won.

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SCULPTING STRENGTH

The striking image that graces our front cover comes from Body Casting Olympians – a series of sculptures by alumna Louise Giblin (Sculpture BA(Hons) 1985). Louise cast the bodies of five top athletes to celebrate sporting success and to raise money for the brain injury charity, Headfirst.

Louise, who is an associate of the Royal British Society of Sculptors (ARBS) made sculptures of Kriss Akabusi, Dame Kelly Holmes, Sally Gunnell, Darren Leach and London 2012 bronze medallist, Beth Tweddle.

Louise was invited to show at the British Olympic Federation charity ball at Lord Colin Moynihan’s estate. Lord Moynihan – an Olympian and Sports Minister, and Chairman of the British Olympic Association – has agreed to become one of the models for Louise’s next project, Living Legend Heads in 2014.www.louisegiblin.co.uk

INSPIRED TO BE A CHAMPION

The university’s Be a Champion project has been awarded an Inspire Mark. The Inspire Mark programme officially recognises projects that have been inspired by London 2012 and have created opportunities for millions of people to feel part of the games and get involved in activities spanning sport, education, culture, volunteering and sustainability. Projects that are awarded the Inspire mark are allowed to officially link themselves to the games in a way that no previous Olympic or Paralympic Games has made possible.

Be a Champion has been running since October 2011 and each month has seen a different Olympic challenge for our students. Each activity has focused on taking the challenge to the students in non-conventional sports environments to try and engage students that are not already involved with the university’s sport and recreational programme. To date the campaign has reached over 800 participants across all five campuses.

BEN HAWES

For Ben Hawes (Sport Science Technology BSc(Hons) 2003), London 2012 was his third consecutive Olympic games. He also competed in Athens 2004 and captained the GB men’s hockey team in Beijing 2008.

Ben, who has earned 225 international caps for England and GB, commented on his career as a professional athlete: “I am eternally grateful for the support the University of Brighton gave to me in reaching my dreams of being an Olympian.”

GAMES MAKERS

Two members of the university staff were selected as games makers for London 2012. Lorraine Roberts, student support and guidance tutor at the University of Brighton in Hastings, was selected to support the volleyball competition. Gemma Finlay, sports development manager for Active Sussex based at the Sports Centre at Falmer, was a field of play attendant for the badminton at Wembley arena during the first week of the Olympic Games.

KATE STICKS TO THE POINT

As an Olympic bronze-medal winner herself (for the modern pentathlon at Sydney 2000) and as a national and commonwealth fencing champion, Kate Allenby MBE (Sport Science BSc(Hons) 1995) brought plenty of experience to her role as Director of Fencing (Modern Pentathlon) at London 2012.

DANCING IN THE OPENING CEREMONY

Alexandra Hardman (English Language and Linguistics BA(Hons) 2012) was one of the dancers who performed in the opening ceremony in the section that celebrated all the great British music through the past up to current music. “I was lucky enough to be positioned in the front row dancing directly opposite the royal box but in a stadium of 80,000 people and cameras broadcasting to billions the whole experience seemed quite surreal. I am absolutely thrilled to have achieved a 2:1 this year while also being part of one of the biggest productions of 2012.”

MEDICAL LEAD AT PARALYMPICS

Dr Nick Webborn, Principal Research Fellow at the University of Brighton, was appointed chief medical officer to Paralympics GB for the London 2012 games. During the games Nick was based at the Paralympic Village in Stratford, London. Together with his medical team, he delivered support and treatment to British athletes competing in the 20 different sports.

Commenting on his appointment Nick said it was a great privilege to be offered the role. “I was really happy to be leading the care of our athletes in London. A home games is very special.”

Louise working on her Beth Tweddle cast.

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Nick has worked with elite Olympic and Paralympic sportsmen since 1992 and previously held the post of medical officer for the GB team at Atlanta, Nagano and Sydney and is a member of the International Paralympic Committee’s Medical Commission. He oversaw the core medical support team and preparation camps. These preparation camps enable medical staff to get to know the athletes and begin planning the medical services necessary throughout the games.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ROWING

Twice graduated from Brighton, Dr Chris Shambrook (Sport Science BSc(Hons) 1991 and a Psychology PhD 1995) is the sport psychologist behind the gold medal-winning GB rowing team, a role he has held since 1997, meaning London was his fourth Olympic Games.

Psychologists are now an essential part of almost every Olympic team. Athletes’ mental attitude can make the difference between winning a medal and losing a career, especially in endurance sports like rowing. Chris’s role is to keep the athletes focused and to maintain a tried-and-tested routine. In the past, psychologists weren’t even considered. But in a rowing team, coordination is essential because everyone has to pull together as though they are one.

PAVING THE ROAD TO OLYMPIC SUCCESS

Professor Jonathan Doust, head of the university’s School of Service Management and Sport in Eastbourne, is a non-executive director of the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and was chosen to help Britain’s athletes to Olympic success in London in July. The EIS works to improve performances of elite athletes through high-quality sport science and medical support.

Jo, who is also Chair of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, explained: “I helped provide strategic direction to the organisation in the build-up to the 2012 Olympic Games and beyond.

“The University of Brighton is a leading professional and applied university and works hard to link academic research with relevant people and organisations. Contemporary sport is so competitive that every edge counts and I hope I can contribute to the science and medical support that can help achieve medal success on the world stage.”

OLYMPIC TORCH BEARERS

Students, staff and alumni from the University of Brighton formed part of the 8,000 torchbearers for the 2012 Olympics.

Stephen Brooks, a Resource Assistant in the library at our Falmer campus, was chosen to carry the Olympic torch through Lancing in West Sussex. Stephen was nominated by his wife who wrote about his resilience and good humour in the face of ill health.

Ben Feist, who is studying for a nursing degree in Eastbourne, carried the torch through Lewes on 17 July. Ben was nominated by his mother for his work as a volunteer first aider for St John Ambulance and South East Coast Ambulance Service.

Diane Marks (Physiotherapy BSc(Hons) 2007), who established the first womans blind cricket team in the UK and Europe, carried the torch through Westminister.

Ben Stevens, a second-year Applied Psychology and Criminology student, carried the flame through his home town of Crowborough. Ben is a fully qualified club coach at Beacon Swimming Club and has built up his own lifesaving club (The Freedom Rescuers) that teaches children how to save lives both in the water and on land.

Dr Nick Webborn, Principal Research Fellow at the School of Service Management and Sport, also carried the flame through Lewes. Nick was nominated for devoting most of his professional life to helping others achieve their goals in sport.

PLAIN SAILING FOR ALAN

Alan Baser of the university’s Accommodation and Hospitality Services, was one of the national technical officials (NTO) for the London 2012 Olympic sailing competition.

As the LOCOG-appointed NTO, Alan’s role was to work with the chief umpire to coordinate the activities of the umpire team. Alan was the only NTO for the umpire team and also deputised for the NTO for the international jury. The NTO role is to ensure (in partnership with chief umpire) the technical aspects and rules of procedure of the competition are adhered to.

Alan is an international race official for the worldwide governing body for the sport of sailing – the International Sailing Federation (ISAF).

Nine out of the ten Olympic sailing events are fleet racing. Fleet racing is, as its name suggests, everyone against everyone. The first across the line wins. During the Olympics the largest fleet was about 40, however there can be hundreds on one race course.

BRIGHTON’S OLYMPIC OPINION IN THE NEW YORK TIMES

Alan Tomlinson, Professor of Leisure Studies and Director of Research at the Chelsea School of Sport and Jules Boykoff, visiting scholar from Pacific University, Oregon, were published on the politics of the Olympics in the New York Times in July.

Alan is an expert in the social and cultural impact of spectacle and gave evidence to the House of Commons Select Committee on Culture, Media and Sport before the Olympic bid, warning against the over-optimism that often characterises mega-event bidding processes.

The New York Times opinion piece focused on the politics behind the Olympics and the conditions imposed by the influential but secretive International Olympic Committee (IOC) on the host countries. Alan said: “The IOC remains elitist, domineering and crassly commercial. There are over 100 members of the IOC and they constitute a scattered range of individuals, traditionally aristocratic, male and privileged. It does acknowledge the escalating scale of the games but its arrogance and aloofness prevent it from properly addressing the issue.”

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It is unlikely that Julien MacDonald needs much introduction, having thundered through the fashion world since graduating. Julien’s iconic designs have been worn by some of the world’s most glamorous celebrities and his stellar career has made him a household name.

Although he may now be dressing a Hollywood A-lister for a red carpet event, delivering hard truths to wannabe models on television or providing an incisive fashion commentary, Julien still humbly credits his formative influence to his time at Brighton.

PASSION FOR FASHION

Born in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales in 1971, Julien’s interest in textiles was piqued at an early age when his mother taught him to knit. Soon after, Julien’s interest in design grew and he applied to study textiles and design at what was then Brighton Polytechnic. Julien explained why he made the move from Wales to the south coast: “I’ve always wanted to be a fashion designer working particularly with knitwear, as it has always been one of my passions. The University of Brighton was the best course for me as it was absolutely fantastic.

“I would always recommend my course to new students, as it is a great place to develop your creativity. Being a fashion designer is a wonderful career choice as it allows you to be creative and offers so many opportunities.”

It was clear his time at the Faculty of Arts certainly made a lasting impression on him as he harked back fondly to his fashion roots in Brighton where he graduated with a Fashion Textiles Design with Business Studies BA(Hons) in 1994: “I loved student life and particularly loved living in Brighton; it has so much to offer a young creative. I still like to visit Brighton often since moving to London.”

After graduating from Brighton, Julien secured a place on a masters degree at the Royal College of Art. It was there at his impressive graduation show, that he caught the eye of fashion legend, Karl Lagerfeld. In 1996 Julien was appointed Head Designer for Knitwear at Chanel and worked on the prestigious Lagerfeld label until 1998.

Before starting his own label, Julien built an impeccable resume working with some of the biggest names in the business. It wasn’t long before Julien was creating knitwear on a freelance basis for Alexander McQueen. In 2000 he succeeded McQueen as the chief designer at Givenchy, Paris – providing his magic touch to the brand which flourished during this time.

SIGNATURE STYLE

Julien is famed for his show-stopping, high glamour dresses and he boasts a star-studded international client list including Naomi Campbell, Selena Gomez, Beyoncé, Joely Richardson, Kylie Minogue, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Beckinsale, Dame Shirley Bassey and Cheryl Cole. Within the industry, he is regarded as somewhat of a wizard with his mastery of cutting.

STITCHING UP A GLOBAL CAREERHow did Brighton affect international designer Julien MacDonald OBE?

It was no surprise when in 2001, Julien was awarded the coveted title of British Fashion Designer of the Year. Acknowledging his success, Julien commented: “My career has been amazing. I’ve been incredibly lucky and had some wonderful experiences from working with Karl Lagerfeld to being appointed the creative director at Givenchy and of course having my own successful fashion house.”

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Is it difficult to maintain an edge in such a competitive industry? Julien responded positively: “I am often challenged by my career but I enjoy these challenges as they keep it new and exciting.”

The Julien MacDonald label has become entrenched globally amongst prestigious stores and boutiques, as well as his ready-to-wear line for Debenhams. However, when asked to pinpoint his greatest achievement so far, his response is instant: “My biggest achievement to date is when I had the great honour of receiving an OBE for services to fashion from Her Majesty the Queen. It is the best recognition anyone could ask for and made my family incredibly proud.”

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BACK AT BRIGHTON

Julien returned to our Grand Parade campus in the spring to sit in the hot seat as fashion writer, Colin McDowell interviewed him about his illustrious career in fashion and the design industry.

Julien spoke to students under our Alumni Advice Network scheme as part of the Fashion Fringe. His affinity for the university ran deep when he commented: “It was amazing to go back to the place where it all began for me.”

MACDONALD’S MILESTONES

1994 BA(HONS) BRIGHTON 1996 MASTERS RCA 1996 HEAD DESIGNER FOR KNITWEAR AT CHANEL 2000 CHIEF DESIGNER AT GIVENCHY 2001 BRITISH FASHION DESIGNER OF THE YEAR 2006 AWARDED AN OBE 2010 JUDGE ON TELEVISION SHOW, BRITAIN’S NEXT TOP MODEL

In 2010, Julien embedded himself even deeper in the popular fashion psyche when he was appointed as a straight-talking new judge on Britain’s Next Top Model, hosted by Elle Macpherson. Julien was a natural choice for the show – after all he makes the clothes models want to wear. His media-friendly style has made him a popular commentator on fashion and culture in broadcasting.

ANY WISE WORDS FOR OUR STUDENTS AND ALUMNI?

“Follow your dreams and work hard; you can achieve anything if you set your mind to it like I did.”

AND THE FUTURE?

“My goal is to continue to grow my business in this wonderful industry.”

“I loved student life and particularly loved living in Brighton; it has so much to offer a young creative. I still like to visit Brighton often since moving to London.”

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STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMMESWe welcome international students to Brighton on study visits for a semester, a year or over the summer to enjoy our lively university community and to experience British culture and history.

Whitney Doig, one of our US alumni, explains why she transferred here for her final year in English Language and Literature: “As soon as I arrived at the University of Brighton, I felt like I was at home. Everything about the university was welcoming. My tutors taught in a way that was completely new to me, yet I instantly realised that I preferred their style of teaching. They encouraged me and my fellow classmates to have an open mind and to develop our own opinions and reassured us that no idea was wrong if you could argue your point accurately and effectively. It was at that moment, as well as making lifelong friends, that I realised that there was no other place that I would rather finish my degree.”www.brighton.ac.uk/studyabroad

SCIENCE WITHOUT BORDERS PROGRAMME The Science without Borders programme is a Brazilian government scholarship initiative which will see the UK welcome up to 10,000 Brazilian students over the next four years. Higher education institutions from across the UK are taking part in this scheme, offering courses in mostly STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Courses in the creative industries are also being offered.

Science without Borders will send 101,000 of the best Brazilian students to study undergraduate and research degrees at top higher education institutions across the world. In the UK, the University of Brighton is one of a select number of universities invited to take part. It is the first large-scale student mobility programme operated in the UK and will contribute over £180m to the UK’s higher education sector over the next four years.

INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE UPDATEOur International College, located on our Moulsecoomb campus, offers students from outside the European Union preparation programmes for study at the University of Brighton. Last year around 160 students from over 30 countries undertook undergraduate and postgraduate preparation courses comprising English language, academic skills and subjects with us. As well as preparing for study, they had the opportunity to experience all that Brighton and the UK have to offer as well as making a lot of new friends.

High quality teaching, dedicated student support services and excellent facilities allow students to succeed and fulfil their potential.www.brighton.ac.uk/ubic

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SOUTHERN AFRICAN SCHOLARSThe Southern African Scholarship Fund is helping the development of South Africa and its neighbouring countries by funding southern African scholars on courses which directly benefit the wider community when they return home. Over the past year we have raised over £12,000 for the fund. To date, the fund has supported trainee teachers, engineers, doctors and nurses. Funds raised by the University of Brighton Students’ Union will help provide a postgraduate scholarship to a student from South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Madagascar or Angola.

HOW FAR CAN YOUR DEGREE TAKE YOU?For 85-year-old Ronald Phillips, who graduated when he was 80 (Fine Art MA 2008), Hong Kong seemed like the ideal place to exhibit his work. Ronald, a qualified architect, returned to Hong Kong to attend the fiftieth anniversary celebrations of the City Hall, a building for which he was co-architect. He launched his exhibition at the Hong Kong Institute of Architects with a seminar presentation of his architectural work in Hong Kong in the 50s and 60s relating it to his fine art paintings.

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COME AND SEE USCANADA(September/October)

The University of Brighton will be visiting the following countries over the next few months. If you would like to meet up with our university representatives please contact us at alumni@brighton.ac.uk.

BRIGHTON BOOSTS TOURISM IN THE GAMBIA University of Brighton experts, Dr Marina Novelli and Professor Peter Burns, are playing a vital role in improving standards in the tourism industry in Gambia. Their work could contribute to poverty alleviation and development not just in the Gambia but in the wider West African region. Dr Novelli and Professor Burns made recommendations to the government that have been incorporated into The Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute Bill. The bill has been overwhelmingly approved by the National Assembly and is being implemented.

INTERNATIONAL CHAPTERSOver the past year, we have established various international chapters through our LinkedIn groups. These chapters are made up of former students of the University of Brighton based in your country and provide opportunities to network with one another, and socialise and maintain strong links with the university.

Check out our existing groups around the world and do join up to network with your fellow alumni. If there isn’t a chapter in your country (yet), contact us and we will be happy to discuss establishing one.

• University of Brighton alumni (International)• University of Brighton alumni (France) • University of Brighton alumni (Germany)• University of Brighton alumni (Greece) • University of Brighton alumni (Hong Kong) • University of Brighton alumni (Italy) • University of Brighton alumni (Jersey)• University of Brighton alumni (Malaysia) • University of Brighton alumni (Mauritius) • University of Brighton alumni (Republic of Ireland) • University of Brighton alumni (Taiwan)• University of Brighton alumni (USA)

CHAPTER• USA

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 INTERNATIONAL FOCUS 17

COME AND SEE USCHINA (October) JAPAN (October) MALAYSIA (November)THAILAND (October)TAIWAN (October) VIETNAM (October)

COME AND SEE USINDIA (November) MIDDLE EAST (November)TURKEY (October)

PESTALOZZIThe Pestalozzi International Village Trust provides a fully funded two-year scholarship to teenagers from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tibet, Nepal and India. Pestalozzi students are all exceptionally able, having achieved high educational qualifications and shown a commitment to community service in their home countries. The University of Brighton works in partnership with Pestalozzi by providing two student scholarships for higher education study at the university which cover the cost of tuition fees and also provide a financial bursary which meets half the recipient’s living costs. We also mentor the trust’s fundraising efforts.www.brighton.ac.uk/studentlife/money/scholarships

CHAPTERS• France • Germany• Greece • Italy• Jersey• Republic of Ireland

CHAPTER• Mauritius

CHAPTERS• Hong Kong• Malaysia• Taiwan

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When Anji Hunter visited our graduation ceremonies in the summer, she radiated energy and enthusiasm for the work of her alma mater.

Little wonder that since leaving Brighton in 1988 with a Combined Studies (Humanities) BA(Hons) that these qualities combined with her clarity of vision and drive, have propelled her to a key position as an authoritative figure in British industry.

Anji started her career as political assistant to newly elected MP Tony Blair, later becoming Director of Government Relations for Blair’s government in 1997. At the time she was described as “the most influential non-elected person in Downing Street”.

From 2002 until 2009, Anji was Group Director of Communications at BP, with responsibility for internal and external communications. She then took on the role of Director of External Affairs at the global conglomerate Anglo American plc, overseeing relations with the communities and governments where the company operates.

In October 2011 Anji joined the Royal Academy of Engineering as Director of the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering. The award has been billed as the British equivalent to the Nobel Prize.

Although no 24 hours are the same given her demanding schedule, Anji talked us through a recent day in her career.

Taking it all in her strideA day in the life of…

Anji Hunter Director of the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering

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WEDNESDAY 11 JULY 2012

7.30am Business breakfast at the Walbrook Club – Sir Richard Broadbent, chairman of Tesco talks about predictions for the economy.

9.15am Meeting in the House of Lords with Alec (Lord Broers, chairman of the Queen Elizabeth Prize judging panel), to finalise the judging process and timelines.

11am Return to office across St James’ Park – mega Olympics stuff underway. Emails, calls – Richard Highfield at the Science Museum is dead keen to get engineering into its Britain is Great campaign, and is on our wavelength completely.

12pm Young Engineers Focus Group: invited group of 15 to discuss areas of endeavour and where the exciting breakthroughs have been – sonar, touch screens, seat belts, airbags, spray-on fabric, agriculture (GM food got a big thumbs up), water purification, to name but a few. Really enthusiastic bunch.

1.30pm Sandwich lunch with them. Our new building creates such a brilliant impression – gone are the oak-lined rooms and in are the pale grey carpet and funky engineering on the walls.

2pm Meeting with Landor and Edelman (our respective brand and PR gurus), to discuss plans for the trophy competition app and brainstorm generally on upcoming opportunities. Landor has done really good stuff on the influencers ie those who guide (or generally, don’t guide) 10–14-year-olds towards science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Said we need to reach parents through social media – mumsnet etc.

3pm Conference call with Jaguar Landrover re our away day on Friday – to look at all the R&D etc. They asked if we’d like to test drive the new Jag … Er, yes, I think so!

3.30pm Meeting with our press and education guys here re getting a press release together and sorting other media activity around Engineering UK’s annual report into perceptions and take-up of engineering, which is being published around GCSE/A-level results time. Will show attraction of traditional careers (ie us) in these uncertain times. Also discussed the Government Spending Review – have the potential to really influence here.

4.30pm Call with Cabinet Office to update on activities and then LOCOG re our leaflet on Engineering the Olympics. Great opportunity to get it in to the International Media Centre, providing we can get it done and dusted, signed off by the various stakeholders, 1000s printed in colour and in there next week.

4.45pm Meeting with team to talk through our respective inputs to the board meeting tomorrow. We’re in good shape, prepared well. Also went through what I’ll need for my presentation to the Royal Academy’s Council and Annual General Meeting next week. Sharing with Alec (Lord Broers), only got a 10-minute slot, so ok.

5.30pm Back at desk – tons of emails. 6.30pm Dash home, change of clothes and up to the Emirates stadium for the

Labour Party sport fundraising do. Cracking speeches from Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair and Ed Milliband – good to see everyone in such good form.

WORDS FROM THE WISE

In March, Anji returned to our Falmer campus as a guest speaker for the Alumni Advice Network. She gave an inspiring talk on her top five tips for the world of work to our humanities students.

Anji is pictured with humanities student Kelly Heane, who was clearly delighted with the advice Anji provided and commented: “Anji Hunter is so inspirational and a fantastic asset for the University of Brighton, its students and alumni. I’m so pleased I got to see her talk at my university.”

What has been the most surprising thing you have learnt or discovered in your career?

Expect the completely unexpected and seize the moment. Even bad things have surprising and often good consequences. I’ve also discovered work can be totally joyous, an endless source of new things to learn, great camaraderie and lots of laughs.

Do you have any unfulfilled ambitions? Please describe them.I’ve had an amazing career, which a degree here undoubtedly propelled me in to, and have been incredibly lucky – with the jobs I’ve done, the bosses I’ve had, the teams I’ve been in. And I don’t have any regrets about any of it. Though I have to admit I would love to have been in the House of Lords, anachronistic and undemocratic as it is...

What has been your mantra for when the going has got tough? What goes around comes around. It’s a brilliant mantra, oft-repeated to me by my dad when I was growing up. It means be nice with people, and they’ll be nice with you; put lots in and you’ll get lots out, and nothing bad lasts.

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His article, based on the PhD he undertook whilst studying at Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) was part of an impactful study into podoconiosis – a disease which causes inflammatory changes within the lymph system in the legs and leads to foot swelling and ultimately elephantiasis.

Fasil, who works at the Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Ethiopia and who is on a postdoctoral attachment at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), USA, worked closely with BSMS’s Professor Melanie Newport and Dr Gail Davey.

The crux of their research was the discovery of genetic links as the root cause for podoconiosis – a debilitating disease which disfigures legs and affects an estimated four million people worldwide. They discovered that genetic variants in a region of the genome linked to our immune response increased the risk of developing the disease.

The disease is triggered by an abnormal reaction to irritant mineral particles found in volcanic soils amongst people who cannot afford shoes. Their research highlighted that one of the simplest and most cost-effective interventions would be to advocate for shoes for people who were at high risk.

Fasil explained to The Brighton Effect how it all came about…

“My PhD course at BSMS focused on the genetic epidemiology of podoconiosis under the supervision of Professor Melanie Newport and Dr Gail Davey. My supervisors’ expertise in genetics and epidemiology, and their field experience in Ethiopia and other African countries was a great opportunity for me to have a practical, useful overseas experience and tailored training.

Fasil’s PhD fees were waived by BSMS as part of its commitment to global health in supporting medical research capacity in the developing world, something that Fasil was quick to acknowledge: “I am grateful that my tuition fee was waived by BSMS. The course at BSMS enabled me to be based in Ethiopia during my study and to have a one-year training experience at the Center for Research on Genomics and Global Health (CRGGH)/NIH where I gained high-level analysis skills in genetic epidemiology.

“In addition, BSMS has attractive aspects for international students such as excellent research infrastructure, evolving collaborative experience with international research institutes, universities and students, and interest to support research in global health issues such as podoconiosis.”

Earlier in the year, Dr Fasil Tekola Ayele (PhD 2010) made a big stride in his fledgling career when he was published as a first author in the New England Journal of Medicine, one of the world’s leading medical publications.

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 ALUMNI PROFILE 21

HOW DID YOU FIND STUDENT LIFE IN THE UK?

“Since I was primarily based in Ethiopia during my studentship, my UK student life was limited to four visits, each up to four weeks of stay. I always remember the charming reception I got from Jayne Wellington, Nichola Mayer, Susan Newport, Eldryd and Helen Parry, Bobbie Farsides and Melanie Newport. My visits at the Brighton Pier, Royal Pavilion, Chattri War Memorial and Devil’s Dyke are memorable. I also got an opportunity to spend time and share experience with BSMS students from the UK, Africa and Asia during my longest stay in the UK when I was a final year student.”

YOUR CAREER HAS PROGRESSED VERY QUICKLY. COULD YOU ELABORATE ON HOW IT HAS DEVELOPED?

“After I received my PhD, I briefly worked as a research manager in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Then I got this excellent opportunity to join the CRGGH research lab at NHGRI/NIH as a postdoctoral fellow.

“The CRGGH is a major collaborator with BSMS in genetic research on podoconiosis and conducts outstanding genetic epidemiology research on common and complex diseases in populations of African ancestry. During my PhD studentship and as a postdoc at CRGGH, I have been learning genomics research principles and analysis tools, have been exposed to state-of-the-art research facilities, and have got opportunities to work and collaborate with renowned scientists in the field. I believe these exposures will be crucial in helping me achieve my career aspirations. “

COULD YOU SHARE YOU FUTURE AMBITIONS WITH US?

“My goal is to develop a career in genetic epidemiology research and broader applications of genetic epidemiology for the betterment of global health. I would like to gain the skills and expertise to be able to do the genetics and epidemiology of a disease, propose a hypothesis about aetiology, test the hypothesis in the field and laboratory, and then get back to the public health implications of the research.”

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR WORK?

“My basic training and experience in public health research and practice in Ethiopia, and my doctoral and postdoctoral training in genetic epidemiology in the UK and USA give me a unique opportunity and experience to carve a common ground for both disciplines in my research design and career goals. I think translation of genomics research to the betterment of global public health is a huge challenge, but it is also an exciting opportunity to address major health problems. “

When asked to describe what he considered to be his professional highlight so far, Fasil responded without hestitation: “My major achievement has been a first-authored New England Journal of Medicine publication of my PhD research. The study showed a link between podoconiosis and genetic variants in the HLA class II locus, and suggested that podoconiosis may be a T-cell mediated inflammatory disease. The publication has played a major role in raising the global profile of podoconiosis, and has gained international attention.”

This worldwide attention included the article being selected as a Continuing Medical Education (CME) activity by the Massachusetts Medical Association as well as its inclusion in numerous professional publications world, press releases and blogs. The study has also provided the basis for formulating an MRC-funded research project (PI: Melanie Newport) that aims to identify the causal variants in podoconiosis using whole exome sequencing and HLA sequencing methods.

LOOKING BACK ON YOUR TIME AT BSMS, WOULD YOU RECOMMEND YOUR COURSE TO A FELLOW INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?

“Yes, unreservedly. I am confident that international students will enjoy the course at BSMS. “And yes,” Fasil added fondly, “Brighton is an enjoyable city.”

“My goal is to develop a career in genetic epidemiology research for the betterment of global health.”

Wearing shoes could eradicate “in our lifetime” a tropical disease affecting an estimated four million people worldwide, according to a medic in the Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS).

Dr Gail Davey has launched a new global initiative, called Footwork, to help combat podoconiosis – a preventable and treatable, yet neglected, non-infectious form of elephantiasis. The disease causes the affected foot and leg to swell dramatically and results in disfigurement, debilitation and ostracism for people afflicted by it in at least 10 tropical countries.

Footwork aims to achieve the eradication of ‘podo’, as it is commonly known, by raising awareness, new research and data collection, and championing shoes as a public health intervention. Dr Davey has forged links with more than 15 public and private partners, including footwear company TOMS. The company distributes shoes to children in many low-income countries, some as prevention for podo, others for purposes of broader public health and esteem.

The model they try to use is to purchase and distribute shoes made in-country, thus increasing employment as well as providing shoes.

But the work could have health implications beyond eradicating podoconiosis. Dr Davey’s colleague at BSMS, Melanie Newport, Professor in Infectious Diseases and Global Health, is applying her knowledge to unravel the genetic basis of podoconiosis in Ethiopia – research that could also contribute to tackling tuberculosis, HIV and malaria worldwide.

www.podo.org

22 BYGONE BRIGHTON THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29

Bygone Brighton is the University of Brighton’s oral history and timeline project. But it doesn’t work without your input. We need your personal views of historical moments and your memories about events that shaped your university days.

If you have documents at home that you wish to share with us, please send them in and they will be carefully copied, scanned and returned to you safely. The memories of students are of value not just to themselves but also to posterity. Historians, sociologists, alumni and academics can all benefit from the experiences you share.

We hope to cover anything and everything that is evocative of your time at university: so please send your contributions in. We will also add these to the website: www.brighton.ac.uk/alumni/bygone-brighton

To get you started, have a look at some of the contributions our university community have kindly submitted.

The construction of Watts Building, Moulsecoomb campus, 1976.

Harry Hillery (Hotel and Catering Management HND 1981), our accommodation manager outside Varley Halls in the spring of 1980. These blocks (Balcombe, Chailey and Ditchling) are being demolished this year.

Rugby club colours 1st IV (1966) – picture from Clive Stone (Quantity Surveying BSc(Hons) 1970)

Lacrosse game vs Beneden School circa 1961

“The college fourth lacrosse team after playing a match at Beneden School. We won. Princess Anne was a pupil there at the time, we were treated to her holding the door open for us to pass through before she did!”Esme Staniforth (nee Wilson), Chelsea College of Physical Education 1961–1964

“[I remember] watching a fire flare through the large hotel on the front. Can’t remember its name or which winter, but for once I was distracted from Graham Dawson’s seminar by the sight, size, and power of the flames ripping through the hotel, clearly and closely visible from the SHACS building.”Helen Jackson (Cultural and Historical Studies BA(Hons) 1999)

“During our time RAG day was prolific. We collected in conjunction with the art college and others for the Cancer Relief fund. Gigs included:• purloining the mayor’s bicycle and

refurbishing in to be re-presented at the crowning of the rag queen

• painting the Clock Tower• carving a reclining nude in the downs (vital

statistics 120ft x 80ft x 120ft)• many other gigs always culminating in a

procession which became a flower, soot and water battle of the floats on Marine Parade.

“The time was dangerous due to the presence of teddy boy gangs who roamed certain parts of Brighton at night (Trafalgar Street was a no-go area) and even slashed the face of a starlet on the front during the Brighton Film Festival.” Chris Swayne (Civil Engineering 1959)

“Don’t know if it is still going but I was involved with another Civil Engineering student Ray McKay in setting up the Brighton Polytechnic Sub Aqua Club in about 1972, is it still going? Fond memories of driving into Brighton loaded up with 13’ Zodiac inflatable boat on the roof of an 11’ 7” Hillman Imp loaded with outboard engine and several diving cylinders and passenger. We parked under Palace Pier which I am sure you are not allowed to do now.”John Killip (Civil Engineering BSc(Hons) 1974)

Do any of these pictures or anecdotes jog memories for you?

IN FOND MEMORY Betty (Bede) Barford 1915–2012

Bede Barford was appointed principal lecturer in Education at Chelsea College of PE in September 1961 and became vice principal of the college in 1967 until retirement in 1976. She expected high standards in all things from both staff and students and worked tirelessly for the good of all as demonstrated by her representation of the staff on the college’s governing body.

Before this she had trained at Homerton, Cambridge and taught at schools in Wigan, Derbyshire and Cowley near Oxford before being appointed founding head teacher of Gillotts School, Henley in 1950. She remained in contact with many former pupils from Gillotts School, and with former Chelsea students who corresponded and visited her regularly.

After retirement Bede continued to live in Eastbourne. She was musical (LRAM) and enjoyed bridge and the theatre as well as books and reading. Aged 96, Bede died peacefully at home on 4 July.

Submitted by Pearl Holt (nee Mawdsley)Chelsea College of PE, 1961–64

Your careers

THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29 EMPLOYABILITY 23

PLANNING YOUR NEXT STEPS OR CHANGING DIRECTION?

If you graduated recently and are looking ahead to the future, our Careers Service can help you plan your next steps and develop your employability skills. Or maybe you graduated some years ago and are thinking about changing the direction of your career. Whichever stage you are at, as a University of Brighton alumnus, you’ll have lifelong access to professional support from our Careers Service, including:• CV and application advice • online careers seminars and tips• ongoing one-to-one support • interview skills advice• industry-related events • job vacancy service • online information and advice.

Whether you’re looking to create an eye-catching CV, want some expert advice from local employers, or need bespoke help from a careers counsellor to explore your options, make us your first call. www.brighton.ac.uk/careerscareers@brighton.ac.uk01273 642855

WEBINARS

No matter where in the world you are, we are delighted to offer career-enhancing opportunities via our webinars. Please check the regular ebulletins for details or visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/universitybrightonalumni for more information.

EMPLOYABILITY AND ENTERPRISE

From the start, we encourage students to consider their long-term goals including what they will do after leaving university, and how they will achieve their aims. A new group within the university is now helping to develop practical solutions to help strengthen this strategy. Over the last year, the university has invited employers, students, academics and governors to join an Employability and Enterprise Group which is overseeing the provision of employability and enterprise across the whole university.

All students, including first years, will be introduced to the Graduate Toolkit. This comprises online resources on developing employability skills, presentations from employers, employability skill programmes, and indeed any activity that can improve a student’s employability.

Students will be able to keep track of their employability development by keeping a portfolio called studentfolio which, like a continuing professional development (CPD) record kept by professionals, will enable students to build a CV, reflect upon their experiences and share any of this with tutors and later employers.

ALUMNI ADVICE NETWORK

Over the last year, we have been lucky enough to deliver some great opportunities through the Alumni Advice Network thanks to the 500+ alumni who have registered to share their expertise. Some of our highlights have been:• Comedian and actor, Graham Duff

(Expressive Arts (Music) BA(Hons) 1985) hosted a creative writing masterclass at the Faculty of Arts

• Fatboy Slim (aka Norman Cook (British Studies BA(Hons) 1985) provided a high profile interview for our student radio producers on BURST

• Duncan Spencer (Civil Engineering BEng(Hons) 1993) gave a lecture on environmental insurance as part of curriculum development for the civil engineering division

• Phil Ashford (MBA 2003) from Enterprise for Change, inspired our students at our Learning to make a difference conference

• Anji Hunter (Combined Studies (Humanities) BA(Hons) 1998), Director of the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering delivered an impactful address to our humanities students

• Chief Information Officer at trainline.com, David Jack (Mathematics for Decision Making BSc(Hons)) got down to the nitty gritty with a 10 reasons why I won’t hire you… presentation to job-seeking students

• Anthony Sheret and Edd Harrington (Graphic Design BA(Hons) 2009) founders of Colophon Foundry donated the use of a bespoke font for the graduate degree show

• Alumnus Award winner, Julie Howell (Library and Information Studies BA(Hons) 1992) moved a packed lecture theatre with her inspirational keynote address at our annual Disability and Dyslexia Team Support Workers Conference.

INTERNSHIPS – THE NEW ‘BLACK’?

The best internships offer graduates the chance to gain vital experience in their field. Nowadays they are an effective way for businesses and organisations to match graduate-level skills to a project. Often, internships can turn into permanent employment. The University of Brighton Graduate Internship Programme promotes paid roles to recent graduates, and undertakes the recruitment and shortlisting process for employers.

Brighton alumni have seen internships turn into dream jobs. David Scott (Three Dimensional Design BA(Hons) 2009) became an intern with Haberdashery London, a product and lighting design agency in 2010.

David is still with the agency today. “With the help of the University of Brighton Internship, I was able to undertake a six-week placement with Haberdashery design studio. Subsequently I was asked to carry on as a freelance designer, and at the start of this year that turned into full-time employment.”

Could you offer a graduate internship opportunity? To find out more about the University of Brighton Graduate Internship programme and how we could help with the recruitment and selection process, contact careers@brighton.ac.uk, 01273 642855.

All of our internship opportunities are advertised on the University of Brighton’s vacancy listing service. http://brighton.prospects.ac.uk/

24 LEGACIES THE BRIGHTON EFFECT – ISSUE 29

The definition of legacy is “a gift of property, especially personal property, as money, by will; a bequest”; something that you leave behind for others when you are no longer around. In the case of the Olympics there has been a lot of coverage about the stadiums and venues, and what will become of these following the games, and how the event itself can inspire people into taking up and excelling in competitive sport; continuing the theme and inspiration from the games long after the event is over.

For many of us, our primary thought is our own wealth and assets, and how these may benefit our children or family when we die. The first time a lot of people think about this is when they buy a property, get married or have children; ‘what measures do I need to take to ensure my loved ones are properly looked after?’

What matters to youBut for many others, drawing up a will is also an opportunity to think about the causes or issues that are important to them. Leaving a gift to charity in your will, after you have made provision for your loved ones, is an excellent way of supporting something you feel strongly about and is the highest honour a charity can receive. It can also relieve the tax burden on the rest of your family after your death. What you may not be aware of is that money pledged to the university, which is a registered charity, is exempt from inheritance tax.

A growing number of benefactors recognise this and have pledged to help the University of Brighton with a gift in their will. Their support will be directed to a number of different projects across the university, including scholarships or academic chairs and teaching posts, providing the latest resources, equipment or library provision, or promoting research.

What you leave behindWriting a will can be a sobering prospect and one that requires careful consideration to ensure you have provided adequately for the loved ones you leave behind. However it can also provide an inspiring opportunity to make a lasting difference to the wider world.

It may be that one of our many projects resonates personally with you, whether that is health and wellbeing, student hardship, culture, research, sustainability or community engagement. Studying at university is not only a life-changing experience here, it can also provide life-changing impacts later on. Your support helps that happen.

We all hope to be remembered with love, but how about also being remembered as an enabler, as a pioneer, as someone who may not have found the solution but who made that solution possible by supporting its cause?

Pass on your passion for educationCould there be a better way of ensuring future generations also benefit from a high quality education other than by leaving a legacy? To many people there is a comfort in the impact a legacy makes. Why wouldn’t there be when the gift of education and the hope borne from possibility continues in your name? As Nelson Mandela said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

After ensuring that your family is looked after, there are many ways to include the university in your wishes through different types of gift. We’ll make sure that, wherever possible, your legacy is fulfilled and your support is directed where and how you would like.

If you would like any more information about making a gift to the university in your will, or would like to pledge your support, please get in touch with us by contacting Andrew Scanlan +44 (0)1273 643591 or email giving@brighton.ac.uk.

There has been a lot of talk about the legacy of London 2012 in the media but what exactly is a legacy and why might it matter to you?

What difference will you make?

We offer flexible postgraduate course options to help you balance work and life commitments. Postgraduate courses can strengthen your existing skills and qualifications, support your career progression, enable you to meet professional requirements and provide rich personal development.

At the University of Brighton, masters courses are provided across a huge range of subjects, with flexible delivery and a strong postgraduate employment record. If you are a former student of the university you may also be eligible for a 10 per cent tuition fee discount.

To find the taught course or research programme that’s right for you, see

www.brighton.ac.uk/postgraduate.

Postgraduate opportunities

• Develop specialist career skills• Qualify for your chosen profession• Study a subject you are passionate about • Alumni discounts available

Given a scholarship to study for a masters degree

All these things and more were made possible through the generous support of our alumni, friends and other supporters. This is why we fundraise: to provide opportunities and fund projects that make the University of Brighton an even more supportive and exciting place to study and work.

For more information, or to make a donation, please contact us on giving@brighton.ac.uk or call +44(0)1273 643591.

This is why we fundraise…

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Belonged to a student society that was awarded a grant to buy specialist equipment

Awarded a travel grant to help with the costs of an overseas placement opportunity

Accessed a hardship fund because he was unable to work due to illness

Undertook research

in a state-of-the-art

laboratory