1 /cardiffunialumni #CardiffGrad THE YEAR THAT WAS... Introduction The year that was… In this special edition of News, we celebrate the academic achievements of our graduates: the class of 2015.

Professor Patricia Price is the University’s Pro exceptional graduates, from an Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience and Academic award winning student journalist Standards. Here, she takes a whistle stop tour of some to our first batch of successful of the key highlights of the University year. Pathway graduates. We highlight our law students who made (and this year we’ve had our fair history, making national and share!) but it’s also important to I consider myself to be residence that accommodates 179 international media headlines for appreciate our students’ wider extremely lucky. In my role, I undergraduate and postgraduate their work after they successfully contribution. From volunteering to get“ to engage and witness - on students. I also unveiled a new overturned a murder conviction as maths revision clubs, our students a daily basis - the outstanding £14.5M world class centre for part of the Innocence Project run are helping support the wider achievements of our students. teaching and training tomorrow’s by the School of Law and Politics. communities. global business leaders at Cardiff Their stories are an inspiration to From individual stories of Business School. The state-of- us all. One project of particular note academic excellence to tales the-art learning and teaching hub was a rubbish clean-up, part of Over the course of this Experience and Academic I hope our graduates will take a We also offer a genuine invitation of personal and sporting provides high-tech lecture theatres, In looking back on the year, it the Community Gateway flagship week, some 7,000 students Standards, Professor Patricia Price, minute or two to reflect on their to our graduates to stay in touch. achievements, I am privileged to executive study zones and a high- would be remiss of me not to engagement project. It helped graduate.“ This represents a huge as she reflects on some of our experience. To think about the As Cardiff graduates they act as experience them first-hand. tech ‘trading room’ to attract the mention this year’s Students’ people in Grangetown transform logistical and administrative students’ accomplishments over emotions they felt on their first our champions wherever they very best business students from Union team. Under the Presidency their community. Litter pickers, challenge for our dedicated staff. the academic year. day, the first people they met or the end up. Looking back over the last around the world. of Elliot Howells, they’ve with the help of Keep Tidy, lecturers who have supported them academic year, it’s been quite continued to be the elected voice took to the streets to collect bags Porters, caterers, Students’ You’ll also learn more about along their academic journey. You can keep in touch on-line, a year. Investment in new facilities was a of Cardiff students and a critical of rubbish. A relatively small but Union staff, senior administrative some of the year’s key University attend the variety of events recurrent theme. University friend. Whether it’s significant gesture nevertheless. and academic staff all pull together highlights which have seen us I am pretty sure it will invoke a organised for alumni, or volunteer In fact, even before students calling for more investment in It’s impossible to cover everything to make this unique event happen become a top five UK university whole host of mixed emotions, to be a mentor for current Cardiff arrived, it was already a story I joined Wales football manager the Students’ Union or wider that has happened over the last and I would like to pay tribute to for research excellence and both good and bad. It’s certainly University students. of outstanding success, with Chris Coleman to unveil the University facilities, or holding the year but I hope this has provided a their sterling and cheerful efforts. impact and unveil a new £300M a chapter in their lives that will our students excelling at The University’s 3G (third generation) University to account – they’ve flavour of some of the key stories. I remain struck by what a vibrant plan to become a trailblazer for never be forgotten. Finally, I would like to thank in pitch. Based at the University’s constantly been knocking on my It just leaves me on behalf of and exciting community Cardiff is. innovation. all staff and students for their in 2014. Eight of Sports Fields in Llanrumney, it can door. No doubt helping secure their everyone at Cardiff University to However, this should not be the enthusiasm, dedication and our high performance athletes be used for student sports fixtures rankings as one of the UK’s very wish you good health, happiness We’re also celebrating the genuine But more importantly, you will end of their Cardiff story. contribution to Cardiff University, competed in the Games, with in any weather. To continue the best. I hope to develop a similarly and success as you depart. I excellence of our teaching and learn about some of our graduates’ Some students will carry on and wish our graduating students Physiotherapy student Sally Peake sporting theme, I was absolutely productive working relationship hope that you will be part of our research and the effect this has, not unique stories. with us through postgraduate or every success in the future. taking a silver medal in the Pole delighted when we retained the with the Students’ Union new growing alumni, demonstrating the least in the huge contribution our professional studies, but for most, Vault and Biosciences student annual Varsity shield but even President, Claire Blakeway as she transformational nature of higher graduates make to society and the From the intrepid adventurer, to attention will turn to securing Professor Colin Riordan Natalie Powell achieving a sweeter was the fact we managed settles into her new post. education. wider economy. the first cohort of Pathway students employment, which is where the Vice-Chancellor and President” medal in Judo. to regain the coveted men’s rugby to graduate with honours, to an help and advice of our dedicated Varsity Cup at Swansea City’s Finally, one thing that continues In this dedicated Graduation award winning student journalist Careers and Employability Team At the start of the academic year Premiership’s, Liberty Stadium. to amaze me is what our students Professor ”Patricia Price edition you’ll hear from our Pro who overcame adversity to secure – featured in this edition – can be I was fortunate enough to be actually give back to the Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Vice-Chancellor for Student first class honours. of help. asked to open the University’s In this edition, you’ll also community. Too often we read Experience and Academic new six-storey £6.4M halls of learn more about some of our about students’ drunken exploits Standards

2 3 OUR YEAR IN PICTURES /cardiffunialumni #CardiffGrad OUR YEAR IN PICTURES Our year in pictures From securing a top five UK position for research excellence and impact, to discovering asthma’s potential root cause, to law students quashing a murder conviction – the last year was certainly one to remember.

University innovation to spark Cardiff Innocence Project economic growth in Wales makes history Vice-Chancellor, Professor Colin Riordan outlined plans for the Students from Cardiff Law School secured the first appeal success University to become an internationally recognised engine for future for an Innocence Project in the UK, with the quashing of the murder prosperity, health and growth in Wales, the UK and the wider world. conviction of Dwaine George. George served 12 years in prison Research Excellence Framework £300M will be invested in new buildings to bring the vision to life. It for the crime after being found guilty at the age of 18. Innocence includes plans to build the world’s first Social Science Research Park, Projects allow students to work on cases of long-term prisoners who Amongst UK universities, Cardiff is now officially ranked fifth behind which would be able to turn world-leading research into solutions to maintain their innocence of serious crimes for which they have been Imperial College London, then LSE, Oxford and Cambridge for the Driving the Welsh economy pressing problems facing society and the world. convicted. quality of our research. We also rank second in the UK on the impact A report produced by Viewforth Consulting LTD for the University measure which assesses the significance and reach of our research. mapped, for the first time, the economic impact of Cardiff University on the local and wider Welsh economy. The report found our international students and students from the rest of the UK, generate some 13,355 jobs in Wales and £696M in the Welsh economy – or equivalent to nearly one per cent of all 2013 Welsh employment and 1.3 per cent of Welsh GVA (Gross Value Added).

Fight-sensing cameras A million-pound project to develop 'smart' cameras that sense Cardiff appoints leading US violence on the streets was developed by Cardiff researchers. compound semiconductor expert Computer science and violence experts teamed up with technology Discovering asthma's specialists from Airbus Group to develop a system that will spot potential root cause One of the world’s leading experts in compound semiconductors trouble brewing and guide police before anyone gets hurt. The study (CS) was appointed to lead a new research laboratory at Cardiff will develop imaging technology which will automatically alert Cardiff scientists identified the potential root cause of asthma and an University with the power to turn the city into a global hub for CS CCTV operators when fights are detected on city centre cameras. existing drug that offers a new treatment. Working in collaboration research and exploitation. Professor Diana Huffaker, currently at the with scientists at King's College London and the Mayo Clinic (USA), University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has been appointed Guardian university league tables University researchers describe the previously unproven role of the as Chair in Advanced Engineering and Materials through the Welsh Dentistry and journalism, publishing and public relations were all calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) in causing asthma, a disease which Government’s £50M Sêr Cymru programme. ranked the best in the UK in the Guardian university league tables. affects 300M people worldwide. Crucially, the research highlights the Other top performing subjects included architecture, which moved effectiveness of a class of drugs known as calcilytics in manipulating up to second, building and town and country planning (third), and CaSR to reverse all symptoms associated with the condition. pharmacy and pharmacology (third). The 2016 guide showed that dentistry had shot to top spot from 11th the previous year, while journalism, publishing and public relations rose from fourth.

Living Wage Employer We became Wales’s first University to be accredited University named title partner as a Living Wage employer. of World Half Marathon Agreeing to be a Living Wage Varsity 2015 Leuven: Creating opportunities employer means that everyone The University was announced as title partner for a major athletics through partnership working at the University event that will attract many of the world’s best runners to Cardiff. Team Cardiff secured the coveted men's rugby Varsity Cup title. receives a minimum hourly The IAAF/Cardiff University World Half Marathon Championships Throughout the day, students from more than 30 sports clubs at We signed an agreement with Belgium’s largest university, KU wage significantly higher than will take place in the city on Easter Saturday, 26 March 2016. It Swansea and Cardiff Universities competed against each other for Leuven. The Cooperation Agreement will help boost research income, the national minimum wage. will be the biggest half marathon to be held in Wales and the most the Varsity Shield. The event culminated in the men's rugby match at create new research collaborations and offer more opportunities for significant athletics event hosted in the country since the 1958 British Swansea's Liberty Stadium, where Cardiff secured a 27-22 victory to students and staff to study and teach abroad. Empire and Commonwealth Games. take the Varsity Cup. Team Cardiff also retained the Varsity Shield.

4 5 /cardiffunialumni #CardiffGrad GRADUATION FOR TOP SPORTING TRIO Pathways to degrees Graduation for top celebrates first graduating sporting trio students A trio of top sporting talent graduate this week with the help of a unique support package. created an environment in which student athletes can develop and Natalie Powell, Tom Barras and and standard of sport at Cardiff Sport, said: “We are really proud excel whilst in higher education. Chris Hugh are all members University. of the achievements of all our of the University’s High sportspeople – but particular “Balancing the life of a student at Performance Programme (HPP). This year the High Performance credit to Natalie, Tom and Chris a Russell Group university with Programme (HPP) has supported who graduate this year. that of an aspiring elite athlete The Programme provides a record 75 students across 30 is far from easy and they have structured support to individuals, different sports. “Their achievements show made many sacrifices along the enabling them to excel in both how Cardiff University way. It is fantastic to see them all their academic and sporting Paul Jones, Performance Sport Sport’s investment in the High graduate and we wish them well careers, whilst raising the profile Officer for Cardiff University Performance Programme has in the future.”

An innovative scheme offering people a way back into education celebrate its first group of graduates this week. Natalie Powell Biomedical Science graduate, Natalie Powell is the Glasgow 2014 The Exploring the Past pathway The Exploring the Past pathway is degree delivered by the School “It combines exciting research-led Commonwealth Games judo gold medallist. She is currently ranked is one of nine pathways available taught and assessed in similar ways of History, Archaeology and teaching with a welcoming and eighth in the World Senior Rankings and first in Great Britain. from Cardiff University’s Centre to first year undergraduate degree Religion. supportive environment which for Lifelong Learning. courses and students do not need enables adults from all walks of As well as her Commonwealth title Natalie has also won various previous qualifications to enrol. Professor Kevin Passmore, life to study with us. medals at World Grand Prix’s, World Masters and BUCS It has been developed to help Professor of History, School of Championships. Natalie’s most recent result was a very good adults realise their ambition to Students study at the University History, Archaeology and Religion “Every lecturer wants adult fifth place whilst representing Great Britain in the European Games in Baku. study history, ancient history, part-time for one year, which said: “Everyone in the School learners on their modules. archaeology or religion at degree qualifies them for an interview of History, Archaeology and Exploring the Past has been level. onto either a part-time or full-time Religion is extremely proud of the fantastic at recruiting students Exploring the Past pathway. who are an asset to our degrees.”

Hornblower TV series), and she Tom Barras Chris Hugh Round-the-world voyage learnt about different sails and Physiotherapy graduate, Dentistry graduate, Chris rigging, and how to steer and Tom Barras combined his Hugh is a Futsal Welsh navigate. studies with elite rowing. Senior International and sparked love of maritime fiction As well as securing a place Cardiff University Futsal It eventually led to her return in the coveted Great Britain club captain. This year he A round-the-world voyage and new-found knowledge of the sea has seen one to Cardiff in 2006 to discuss under 23s team he proved captained both the BUCS and graduate return to Cardiff to indulge her love of English literature. studying for a PhD. Now, some to be a key member of the National League teams to eight years later and married England Seniors squad at last unprecedented success. Alexandra Caroline Phillips for maritime fiction and a return perspective to reading maritime with two daughters, Dr Phillips summer’s Commonwealth first completed a BA in English to Cardiff. fiction and having studied completed her doctorate studies Championships. The University team won literature at Cardiff back in 1997. Conrad during my BA at Cardiff and began an academic career at the BUCS Premier League Following a career in sales “I was in Thailand writing an University, I wanted to read his the Open University in 2010. Having recently won a Gold and FAW Futsal Cup, and marketing Alexandra then article on Phuket when I was works again with new-found medal in the Single Sculls which means they will completed an MA at King's invited to participate in a regatta knowledge of the sea,” she adds. Dr Phillips added: “It has taken at the BUCS Regatta, Tom be representing Wales in College London. However, it and, subsequently, was asked more than eight years to complete will now represent British the UEFA Futsal Cup this wasn’t until she left London to to sail as a cook on the last six- This knowledge led her to my doctoral studies but I am very Universities in the European summer. go travelling at the end of 2002 month leg of a round-the-world research other maritime authors grateful to Cardiff University for Universities Championships and embarked on a six-month leg voyage,” recalls Dr Phillips. while continuing to sail on supporting me throughout and in Hannover, Germany. of a round-the-world voyage she different ships, including the tall today I feel proud to be a Doctor realised that her new-found love “Sailing across the Indian ship The Grand Turk (used in the and a mother.” of the sea had sparked a passion Ocean in 2003 brought a new

6 7 HONORARY FELLOWS 2015 /cardiffunialumni #CardiffGrad HONORARY FELLOWS 2015 Honorary Fellows 2015 Philippa Gregory Philippa Gregory was an established historian and A leading journalist and presenter, a Welsh and British writer when she discovered her interest in the Tudor period and wrote the novel The Other & Irish Lions rugby captain and one of the UK’s leading Boleyn Girl.

business women are amongst those to be honoured by Now, 14 novels later, after Marcus McGilvray writing a series on the Her other great interest is the Cardiff University during this week’s degree ceremonies. magnificent Plantagenets, she charity that she founded nearly Marcus McGilvray grew up services to disadvantaged is returning to the Tudors with 20 years ago: Gardens for The in Monmouthshire and trained youth. Over 20 programmes Henry VIII’s sixth wife. Gambia. She has raised funds in London as a HIV Nurse make up WhizzKids United (all Susanna Reid Professor Dame and paid for almost 200 wells in Specialist. designed by Marcus) including the country’s primary schools. sexual and reproductive health, Anne Glover Now based in KwaZulu Natal, HIV prevention and treatment, Respected journalist and , Marcus is the OVC care and support, girls’ presenter Susanna Reid presents Professor Dame Anne Glover Laura Tenison founder and CEO of Africaid - empowerment and a mixed Good Morning Britain. CBE FRSE FASM is Vice- Whizzkids United, a non-profit gender football league all run Principal for External Affairs company that provides health, from the WhizzKids United Before joining ITV, Susanna and Dean for Europe at the Laura Tenison is the founder education and empowerment Health Academy. presented BBC Breakfast, and University of Aberdeen. and MD of JoJo Maman Bébé, hosted her own show Sunday Professor Glover has a BSc in the UK’s leading boutique Morning Live on BBC1. She Biochemistry from Edinburgh mother and baby brand. Ceri Powell stood in for Andrew Marr in and a PhD in Molecular 2013, and in September that Microbiology from Cambridge. Her company has grown year Susanna took part in the From 2006 to 2011 she was organically from tiny start-up Ceri Powell is the Executive BBC1 show Strictly Come and been given a lesson in the Chief Scientific Adviser in 1993 to a current turnover Vice-President of Exploration Dancing, making it all the way kung-fu by Jackie Chan. for Scotland, before being she held for three years. In 2013 of £50M and 700 employees. fulfil the growing number of for Shell, overseeing technical to the final. appointed as the first Chief she was ranked as the 19th stateside orders. aspects of exploration in the Suzanna studied Philosophy, Scientific Adviser to the most powerful woman in the It is run with a strict code company and accountable for During her career, Susanna Politics and Economics at the President of the European UK by Woman’s Hour on BBC of moral conduct; putting She is a regular mentor to other exploration operations and new has grilled the Prime Minister, University of Bristol before Commission in 2012, a position Radio 4. people and the planet above business people and also runs business opportunities. talked to Kate Winslet and a completing her postgraduate profit. Laura and her team an environmental initiative Carillion is a construction and host of other stars on the red studies at Cardiff University’s are currently working on the that works to recycle little Ceri is an active member services company with an carpet at the Oscars, auditioned School of Journalism, Media export growth and a new worn children’s clothing for of the prestigious Advisory international portfolio including for Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber and Cultural Studies. distribution centre has been distribution by Barnardo’s. Board of the United Nations the UK, Canada and the Middle Ruth Hunt set up in the USA in order to Sustainable Energy for All East. programme, chaired by the Ruth Hunt was appointed Secretary General of the UN. As one of the most senior women Sam Warburton Chief Executive of Stonewall Since 2014 Ceri has served as a in the Energy Industry today, in August 2014. She David Pountney Non-Executive Director on the Ceri has twice been awarded the has successfully led the Board of Carillion PLC, and accolade of being on the Fortune Sam Warburton is a Welsh development of Stonewall’s as the Chairman of the Board Top 50 most Powerful Women in international rugby player. groundbreaking policy, David Pountney director, Sustainability Committee. International Business list. Sam plays regional rugby for campaigning and research became internationally known the Cardiff Blues and was first outputs, including its work to through his production of Katya capped for Wales in 2009. He tackle homophobic bullying in Kabanova at the 1972 Wexford has gone on to win 54 Wales schools, effective interventions Festival. Between 1975 and Thomas caps. In June 2011, he was to improve the health of 1980, he was Director of Kielinger named as Wales’s captain lesbian, gay and bisexual Productions for Scottish Opera. versus the Barbarians, and people and Stonewall’s He directed the world premiere Thomas Kielinger has been subsequently in August 2011 acclaimed leadership of David Blake’s Toussaint German and Italian. As a UK correspondent for the he was named as the Wales development programmes. in 1977 (ENO) and went on freelance director from 1992, he German national daily Die Welt captain for the 2011 Rugby 700 trans people and will see to become ENO’s Director of worked regularly in Zurich, at since 1998, having previously World Cup, at the age of tour to which they She has also spearheaded Stonewall use its platform and Productions in 1980, directing Vienna State Opera, Bayerische reported for the paper from just 22. won. Warburton holds the Stonewall’s commitment to experience to help create real over 20 operas. Staatsoper as well as opera Washington, DC between 1977 record for the most Wales caps campaign for trans equality; change for trans people. houses in America and Japan, and 1985. On his return he Earlier in his career he was a In April 2013, he was named as captain, leading the side on a decision that will shape He has directed many world and in the UK has a long- became editor-in-chief of the Lecturer in German at Cardiff the Lions’ captain for the 2013 35 occasions. Stonewall’s work going In 2014, Ruth was voted the premieres, including three standing association with Opera weekly Rheinischer Merkur, University, where in 1993 he forward. This historic move eighth most influential LGBT by Peter Maxwell Davies for North. Since 2011 he has been and in 1994 started his own became a fellow at the School followed an extensive person in Britain in The which he also wrote the libretto, Chief Executive and Artistic business as writer, broadcaster of Journalism, Media and consultation with more than Independent’s Rainbow List. and has translated operas into Director of WNO. English from Russian, Czech, and political consultant. Cultural studies.

8 9 /cardiffunialumni #CardiffGrad IT’S FAR FROM A DOG’S LIFE FOR DR DANDO TV Presenter, It’s far from explorer, ‘a dog’s life’ for Dr Dando adventurer A demanding full-time job, the challenge of becoming a first-time mum, not to mention running around after three sprightly Labradors, is enough for most people - … Dr but not for graduate Dr Victoria Dando. Graduation marks the end of “It’s taken an incredible amount You might think that cycling the highest seven gruelling years of part-time of self-discipline, some very research study comparing the long nights and weekends to road in the world, canoeing the River reporting of climate change and get through. However, with the Yukon, mountaineering in the Alps and terrorism in the British press. support – and patience - of my Greenland, rock climbing in Europe husband, family and friends and a glittering media career would be All of her hard work pays off not to mention my supervisor, enough for most people but not for one this week when Dr Dando Professor Justin Lewis, I got intrepid 2015 graduate. finally achieves her long-term there in the end,” she adds. ambition of becoming a Doctor of Philosophy. Not content with achieving a first in her undergraduate degree “I’m not going to lie, it is and a successful career at BBC Niall becomes Dr McCann “I received several extremely challenging juggling Wales, Victoria returned to the this week after successfully recommendations from each full-time work with postgraduate University in 2008 to take up a completing his PhD in the School person, but one name was study,” according to Dr Dando, role in the University’s Public of Biosciences studying Baird’s common to each list, Professor who is currently on maternity Relations Office, as it was back tapir - the largest mammal in the Mike Bruford. leave from her role as a Senior then, and embarked on her part- Neotropics and one of the most Communications Officer time postgraduate study. threatened species in all of the “If I could single out one thing following the birth of her son, However, despite her studies Americas. it would be the wonderfully Teddy. coming to an end, it seems this inclusive and multicultural nature is not the end of the line for Dr Dr Victoria Dando pictured with her son, Teddy, and her three Labradors, Sophie, “It has been a juggling act, that's of Mike's lab, the daily cultural “The years of researching and Dando’s academic endeavours. Willow and Louis. for sure,” explains Dr McCann. exchange that we enjoy, the rich writing have brought happiness “I've been juggling expeditions, conversation and the informal and sadness, milestones and Having now completed her Dr Dando adds: “The plan now Dr Dando is set to return to her media work and extra-curricular support network that exists to memories. Two house moves, the research, she hopes to publish is to get the work published in full-time University role towards conservation work with my help whenever help is required. second into a beautiful building her research findings. She also key academic journals, adjust to the end of 2015, six months since academic studies and it is fair to in need of total renovation, have jokes she can finally get to know becoming a first time mum and giving birth to her first child. say that my PhD did suffer from “Mike is a constant inspiration. tested the robustness of my thesis her husband, Martin, now her balance my new life with on- the extra workload, which would Not only has he had a stellar As a result of the success of this on working with endangered filing and my resolve. research is complete. going research and full-time job.” explain why I spent six months academic career but he is a documentary, which won two species, and has conducted correcting my original thesis!” concerned conservationist who is international awards, Niall landed zoological research in the he added. dedicating more and more of his a six-part wildlife adventure UK, Italy, Mauritius, Bolivia, time to conservation at precisely series ‘Biggest and Baddest’ Namibia, Guyana and Honduras; However, whilst it’s been a the time that the world most with Animal Planet Canada and spending over 21 months living It seems that this is not the end difficult juggling act Dr McCann needs it.” Nat Geo Wild, directed by Peter and working in remote and A production line of top rugby talent of the University’s growing insists that it was made easier von Puttkamer and produced by challenging parts of the world. reputation as a production line for by a supportive research Dr McCann has dedicated his Gryphon Productions. Rugby player, James Thomas, considers playing for the back from two bad knee injuries. top rugby talent. environment and the support of life to seeking out adventure As well as his involvement follows in the footsteps of a University’s team and winning the I hadn't played for close to 14 his supervisor, Professor Mike in the natural world, either in Dr McCann recently completed in research, Niall is actively growing band of graduates to annual Varsity grudge match as months so the rugby club allowed James’s Newport Gwent Dragons Bruford. combination with his zoological filming the second season of this engaged in ongoing conservation have juggled their academic one of his most notable highlights me to ease back in and play team mate, Hallam Amos, is a studies, or on stand-alone series, which won two awards at projects in Honduras, Nepal and studies with a professional rugby of his rugby career. regularly and ultimately allow me current undergraduate medical Dr McCann adds: “When I adventures. Worldfest Houston International Guyana, and is a Fellow of the career. to start enjoying the game again." student. decided that I wanted to do a Film Festival. The Mountain Royal Geographical Society. James said: "Varsity was a PhD in conservation genetics I It’s led to a glittering TV career Gorilla episode won a Special James, who plays for the Newport brilliant experience. To play in James’s graduation follows Undertaking two such taxing asked a lot of family friends - which has seen Dr McCann Jury Award, and Niall Picked So, what’s next for the intrepid Gwent Dragons, graduates from the Millennium Stadium in front hot-on-the-heels of Wales and careers is a big ask for anyone but who work in biology departments make his television debut in 2011 up a Platinum Remi for best on- Dr McCann? “I hope to the School of Biosciences this of the whole University was an British and Irish Lions star, it seems Hallam’s making a pretty at other UK universities - who with the PBS documentary Lost screen talent. stay in Cardiff and combine week. unbelievable experience. Jamie Roberts, who successfully good job of it so far, as his call-up they would recommend as an in the Amazon: The enigma of teaching and research with my combined top-flight rugby with to make his recent Wales debut on ideal supervisor. Col Fawcett, which aired on the In his career as a zoologist, media work and my ongoing However, for all his professional “For me when I joined the medical studies. the wing against Tonga confirms. History Channel in the UK. Dr McCann has specialised conservation activities.” playing success, James still University I was just coming

10 11 /cardiffunialumni #CardiffGrad CARDIFF PEOPLE Cardiff People Laura Hodges – Class of 2010 Laura Hodges graduated in journalism in 2010. Since graduating she spent a year in London working at a couple of beauty brand head offices, then returned to Cardiff and worked for a digital design agency. Laura returned to the University when she joined the University’s Communications Team in September 2014.

Dead or alive - who would be In Desert Island Discs style, if What makes you smile? If you could banish one thing your three ideal dinners guests you were cast away alone on a Music, food and the people I love. into room 101, what would it be? and why? desert island which three songs Traffic Wardens. Nigella Lawson – she can cook. would you take with you? Rachel Bilson – so we can chat Stand by me – Ben E King; Tweet or not to Tweet? and realise we are meant to be Love on Top – Beyonce; Tweet! If you were Vice-Chancellor for best friends. Killer Queen – Queen. the day what would you do? Michael Buble – he can provide I would put a huge tent in the music. What makes you get out of bed Coopers Field and hire a load of Who and what inspires you in the morning? comedians and invite all staff out most? Ignoring my alarm and realising for an evening of laughing. Some Describe yourself in three Anyone who has written a novel. that I only have eight minutes to advance warning to plan this words One day I will write one. get ready. would be appreciated though! Funny, friendly, foodie. Enriching student life

“I play it for the academic Staff and students have been recognised Organist celebrates 40 years processions as they walk in and it’s The full list of 2015 winners not a bad tune either!” for their contribution to the student Most Uplifting Staff Vice-Chancellor’s Award of graduation ceremonies He has a number of other favourite experience at the annual University Member for Commitment to “It’s joyful but it’s also poignant. pieces for graduation including Emma Stone, Student Experience Enriching Student Life Awards. Students have a great time but this the middle section of Bach’s Pièce School of Dentistry Claire Morgan, is the point at which they go off in d'Orgue and Crown Imperial by Personal Tutor of College of Biomedical The contribution and dedication The Enriching Student Life and Life Sciences the world and make their own way. William Walton. of students and staff have been Awards are organised annually the Year It’s the end of an era. celebrated at the University’s by Cardiff University Students' Michelle Aldridge-Waddon, Lifetime Achievement Mr Court is an illustrious musician Award annual Enriching Student Life Union, and are an opportunity for School of English, “I enjoy taking part and being who has played with most of the Awards. students to nominate members Communication and Chris Turner, there, and it’s become a fixture of leading orchestras in the country. Academic and of staff and fellow students who Philosophy my summer.” Student Support Services The annual awards provide an have made a difference to their Most Effective Teacher He performed on the recent BBC opportunity to give thanks to studies and experience. Mark Elliott, Honour Roll Mr Court, an associate lecturer Dr Who Symphonic Spectacular those who work to enhance the School of Chemistry Maryambibi Bham, at the University, takes great care tour with the BBC National student experience at Cardiff Deputy Vice-Chancellor to choose suitable music for the Orchestra of Wales and also at the Most Innovative College of Arts, Humanities University. Professor Elizabeth Treasure, Staff Member and Social Sciences occasion and avoids playing the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World said: “These awards are an same pieces every year. competition which was broadcast Ilona Johnson, School of Student Academic Among a long list of winners excellent example of partnership, internationally. Dentistry Rep of the Year were Einir Evans and Jumana just one facet demonstrating how However, there is one special piece The Employability Award Maximilian Schulze Wenning, Nabulsi. student engagement is helping College of Arts, Humanities of music that has become a fixture But he is always keen to continue Catherine Jones, the University to raise the profile and Social Sciences The University organist is He has performed every year at the ceremonies. his tradition of performing at Einir secured the Enriching and prestige of education. School of Psychology celebrating 40 years of hitting since, apart from 1979 which graduation ceremonies. Student Academic Rep of Student Life Award for helping Student Rep the Year the right note at our graduation clashed with his wedding. “When I started playing at to provide profound and life- “The awards themselves focus on Coordinator of the Year ceremonies when he performs graduation, it was called “I would certainly miss it. There’s Jumana Nabulsi, changing opportunities to care key aspects of education and the Louise Hughes, again this year. Mr Court said he looked forward University College, Cardiff in always talk of changing the format College of Biomedical School of Pharmacy leavers, whilst Jumana was student experience, for example and Life Sciences to playing at the event – now those days and the choir used to of the ceremony or changing the chosen as overall winner of the the Innovation and Effectiveness Enriching Student Robert Court, a freelance keyboard staged at St Davids Hall in Cardiff sing the College Song,” he said. venue,” he said. Student Academic Rep of Student Academic Rep of the awards reflect the culture for Life Award player, first performed as a Cardiff city centre - every year. the Year Year, and was commended for lifelong learning that we instill in Einir Evans, Student Support music student when Graduation “It was written for the opening of “If there’s no organ there’s no Thom Davies, being friendly, approachable, our staff.” and Wellbeing was held in the Great Hall of the “I love playing in these ceremonies the library in Cathays Park by the place for me, but there’s an organ College of Physical Sciences dedicated and passionate about Students’ Union. - graduation is such a milestone in Professor of Music at the time, in St Davids Hall and people like and Engineering her work. people’s lives,” he said. David Evans. to hear it!”

12 13 FROM CARE LEAVER TO EDITOR /cardiffunialumni From care leaver to editor

Journalism graduate Michael O’Connell Davidson was made homeless at 16, and with no family support, persevered to let Michael fall through the centre, I would not have had through sixth-form college cracks; they offered him all- the means to secure a place at while living in a rented room. year-round accommodation with university, and I will remain the sustenance of a Care Leaver eternally grateful to the institution Bursary worth £1000, and further for all it has offered me. Now, he graduates with first class After three years of struggling financial support in his second and honours as one of the brightest to balance a full-time college third year. “Student Finance and other public future prospects from Cardiff education with full-time work, bodies dedicated to supporting University’s School of Journalism, Michael got the grades needed Three years on he’s managed to young people pale by comparison Media and Cultural Studies. to pursue his dream of studying balance his studies with his role as when placed next to the work of journalism. editor of the University’s student Einir Evans and all those at Cardiff Care leavers are the most under- newspaper, , has been University involved in working Cardiff News represented group in higher Yet his problems weren’t over shortlisted in the Mind Media with care leavers and students A helping hand to a Editor: Claire Sanders education. because he had no support for his Awards and Student Publication from non-standard backgrounds.” The Editor reserves the application for student finance. His Association Awards, and has had right to edit contributions Michael is among just seven per future seemed in jeopardy and he work published on the Independent Further information on the support received. Whilst care is cent of care leavers who made it to was left in limbo, “without a box Online and Vice UK. available can be found at: successful career taken to ensure the accuracy full-time education by the age 19, to tick.” www.cardiff.ac.uk/advice/ of information, this cannot compared with 43 per cent of all “It’s no exaggeration to say that careleavers/care-leavers.html As celebrations begin, it’s unlikely that the University’s Careers and Employability be guaranteed. young people. However, Cardiff University’s without the support of Cardiff service is at the front of most graduates minds. But, as the partying ends and the Views expressed in ‘Cardiff Student Support Centre refused University’s Students’ Support graduation photo takes pride of place in the mantelpiece, attention turns to the next News’do not necessarily steps… reflect those of the University. Items of interest As a Cardiff graduate you can Would you like a paid or sharing your experience, relating to the University Family affair for mother-daughter law duo access careers and employability internship? contact us. and its staff are welcome workshops, employer events Available in local organisations Email: [email protected] and should be sent to: A mother and daughter thought “Once my children were in it’s funny that I was friends with that we can have debates and and careers fairs to assist (subsidised by Santander), Tel: 029 2078 1442. Communications and to be the first to have studied the secondary school, I enrolled with her now boyfriend Joe before they discussions on topics we’ve both you in moving from study to Internships are available all year Marketing Department. same degree at the same time will the Open University and studied even met, and when she brings him studied at some point, which helps employment. round. For more information Are you willing to share your Tel: 029 2087 5596 career plans with Cardiff be celebrating during graduation law for four years part-time while home we talk more than they do! me learn and is interesting.” contact the Work Experience Twitter: @cardiffuninews this week. working in human resources. But You can access careers advice for Team Email: experienceworks@ University? Email: life threw some obstacles in the “Sometimes, in lectures or in But despite the uniqueness of the up to two years after graduation. cardiff.ac.uk, Tel: 029 2087 6409. Later this year you will be sent [email protected] Jane Heard enrolled on a BA in way and I had to postpone my tutorials, the teaching staff would situation, Chloe is incredibly proud a survey and asked to provide Law in 2012 and her daughter, studies. comment to the students “you of her mum’s achievements. From your own Careers Account Do you have a business or social information on what you are Online: www.cardiff.ac.uk/ news/newsletter.html Chloe Walkley followed suit in probably won’t remember this, but you can register to book for enterprise idea, or want to gain doing six months after graduation. 2013. Following three years of “I eventually enrolled again at your parents will!”. Chloe added: “I definitely wouldn’t appointments, see event listings new skills? The Destinations of Leavers Cardiff University is a registered study, Jane graduates this week, Cardiff University in 2012, and change it. My mum is an incredible and set up job searches and Alumni can access one-to-one from Higher Education (DLHE) charity, no. 1136855 one year ahead of her daughter. have continued working in human But according to Chloe, it’s still person and one of my biggest alerts for jobs with organisations business advice, business start-up Survey helps to determine Cardiff News is available in resources alongside my degree.” a case of mum knows best when inspirations, especially when I targeting Cardiff University. and skills workshops, FREE start– general employment and study large print format. Jane said: “I always had a keen it comes to studying. Chloe adds: made the decision to study law. up office space for technology- outcomes from higher education To request a copy please interest in law but did not have the Being a mother-daughter duo “It’s definitely a case of me asking For more information contact the based businesses, networking courses. The University has email: newsletter@cardiff. opportunity to go to University at university has resulted in a mum for help and not the other “I feel very privileged to have been Careers & Employability Team, opportunities, business mentoring a legal obligation to record ac.uk when I finished school. I had, few unusual situations, as Jane way around! able to share this experience with drop in at The Student Support and coaching and guest speaker this information for the UK Printed on 100% recycled among other things, worked as explains. Centre, 50 Park Place or find events, for up to five years after Government. her and I love seeing her happy paper, in line with the a legal secretary so had a good “My friends ask if we work doing a degree she is so passionate them online: www.cardiff.ac.uk/ graduating. If you’re a graduate University’s commitment to insight into life in a legal firm. “I enrolled the year before Chloe, together on everything but being about. Plus I never have to buy any alumni/benefits/careers. interested in supporting student Find out more: sustainability. Read more at which meant I had already made a year below means a lot of it textbooks!” entrepreneurs through mentoring www.cardiff.ac.uk/alumni/get- www.cardiff.ac.uk/sustain- quite a few friends. Chloe thinks changes. I think it’s more the fact involved/graduate-survey. ability.

14 15 You’ve graduated – what’s next? You’re now a member of Cardiff University’s 120,000-strong global alumni community.

Don’t forget …

• Stay connected to Cardiff on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter • Join alumni events all over the world • Share your successes so fellow alumni, students and staff can celebrate with you • Respond to the national Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey in six months’ time • Keep the University posted of your contact details so we can invite you to alumni events, share career opportunities, and enable networks around the world.

Send updates to: [email protected]