Design Industrial Design Graduate and Director of Design for Land Rover Gerry Mcgovern Reveals His Love for Modernism, Design and Cars

The magazine for Friends of Coventry University evolveAutumn 2015

Leading by Design Industrial Design graduate and Director of Design for Land Rover Gerry McGovern reveals his love for Modernism, design and cars

Going Global Coventry’s international alumni community Win A Coventry University Goody Bag Music at The Lanch A trip down memory lane welcome Coventry University is changing at a rapid pace and the campus is changing almost beyond recognition, with new developments and buildings on every corner. If you haven’t been back to campus in a while, come for a visit and we will 08 happily show you around. The City of Coventry is also undergoing a lot of development and there are some fantastic changes ahead: you can read all about them on page 12-13. Also in this issue, we catch-up with Director of Design and Chief Creative Officer for Land Rover Gerry McGovern, celebrate with Coventry alumni in Hong Kong and Beijing, learn about the therapeutic qualities of gardening and rock out to memories of Coventry’s colourful music scene. This issue is of course also packed with your updates, memories, reunions and events – so sit back for a good catch-up with your University. Keep in touch! 12 Kristina

Website: www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni E-News: Subscribe to a free monthly alumni e-newsletter by emailing Contact us SUBSCRIBE to [email protected] Telephone: +44 (0) 24 7765 8589 Social Networking: Become a Fan and join the Friends of Coventry Email: [email protected] University group on Facebook, link up with the University and other Post: FOCUS, professionals on the Linkedin website Development and Alumni Relations Office Alan Berry Building, Room 120 Coventry University Credits: Priory Street The magazine is written and edited by Kristina Anders, Coventry Cheryl Liddle, Katie Southwell and Alex Roache, designed CV1 5FB by Coventry University, photography by Graham Harwood and printed by Emmersons Press. Special thanks to everyone who contributed to this issue of evolve. Please keep sending in your stories. 02 evolve regulars features

24 Nostalgia 08 Leading by Design We’re celebrating the rich musical Director of Design and Chief history of Coventry and The Lanch Creative Officer for Land Rover Gerry McGovern talks about his 28 Get Connected love of design Find out what old friends are doing now 14 Enterprise Susanna Westwood’s creative 36 Lecturer in Focus business promotes emerging artists Bernard Porter on engineering and low carbon vehicles 16 International Alumni Coventry is going global 40 Events 14 Find out about the latest events 22 Digging for Recovery and reunions Anna Baker Cresswell and Joanna Wise use the healing qualities of gardening updates 24 Music at The Lanch Coventry’s musical heritage

06 Campus development 32 Giving Back Creating a better campus for Alumni talk to current students in the future the annual Telephone Campaign 12 Coventry 34 Memories Coventry is changing – find out all Your favourite memory of your about the new developments time at Coventry 38 Your Shout The results of the Alumni Survey 2014 are here! 22 43 Win Coventry Goody Bag Take part in our competition and be in with a chance to win a Coventry Goody Bag

This magazine is available in alternative formats on request. Call +44 (0)24 7688 8589 or email 43 [email protected] 24 evolve 03 Vice Chancellor’s update I’m sure you will be delighted to hear of the update University’s success with news round up the news that we are now officially a top 15 UK university, courtesy of the Guardian University Guide 2016. Not only is this the highest ranking our institution has ever received, but it’s the highest ever ranking for a modern university in the history of the guide. This is a fantastic result for everyone connected with Coventry University; it’s a great external demonstration of our achievements and testament to the hard work of all our staff. I’m sure you will share in our pride at this result and continue to spread the good news within your own networks. Gaining a qualification from one of the top University receives Queen’s 15 universities in the UK is certainly worth shouting about. Achieving this result is a team Award for Enterprise effort and we couldn’t have made the improvements over the years oventry University has to the institution’s international without feedback from our students been awarded a coveted operations, as well as the University’s and alumni. We’re continually accolade in recognition research programmes. working to make your educational of its international growth Dr David Pilsbury, Deputy experience with us the best it can C and success over the past six years. Vice-Chancellor for international be. Your input is vital and we love We’ve been chosen to receive a development, said: “The growth hearing your stories about the Queen’s Award for Enterprise – in scale and breadth of our impact you have had on our society which is decided and awarded by international activities is something since leaving CU. Our alumni offer a Her Majesty the Queen – making we’re immensely proud of and it is rich and valuable resource for us to us one of only a select number wonderful to have it recognised by learn from and work alongside and of higher education institutions to receiving the UK’s most prestigious your support will play a pivotal part receive this award. business and enterprise award. as we continue our journey. In the awards’ 50th anniversary “The University has embedded I hope you enjoy this issue of year, we will be commended in the ‘international’ in all that we do, Evolve and find something that international trade category. This opening up new and exciting global continues to fuel your passion for is in recognition of our ‘continuous opportunities and partnerships Coventry University. achievement’ since 2009 in growing for the benefit of students, staff and supporting our international and other stakeholders. We look student population. forward to further successes as The award also recognises the we continue to roll out our 2020 John Latham positive contribution Coventry international strategy.” Vice-Chancellor University Enterprises has made

04 evolve Record-breaking result

oventry University has students satisfied with feedback Other subject areas in which update broken into the top 15 of UK and assessment by lecturers, and Coventry excels include: Economics C universities in the Guardian are second only to the University of (7th), Accounting and Finance University Guide 2016. Oxford for our teaching quality score, (7th), Fashion and Textiles (9th), We’ve secured 15th spot overall, underlining that we offer a first-class Architecture (10th) and Civil ranking ahead of a number of experience for our students. Engineering (10th). Russell Group institutions to achieve Seven of our subject areas Further to this, our Guardian our highest ever listing and cement are ranked in the country’s top position ensures we’re also the our position as the country’s leading 10, including our courses in ‘film highest ranked modern university in modern university. production and photography’ and all of the major league tables of UK We’re ranked top in the UK ‘hospitality, event management and higher education institutions. for the percentage of final year tourism’, which are second overall.

Backing the bid for Coventry as a City of Culture

s the City of Coventry chairman, David Burbidge OBE, Coventry Telegraph’s online poll. prepares its bid to become we’re pleased to be involved with For more information please visit, A the UK City of Culture in this exciting opportunity for the city. www.coventry2021.co.uk 2021, we are showing our full The City of Culture title would support by working in partnership bring a range of social, cultural and with groups from across the city in economic benefits to the city and the bid for the prestigious title. the wider region, as well as celebrate We play an important role within Coventry’s history, theatres, the city’s cultural life, through our museums, galleries and independent dynamic student population and art groups. The council estimates the our ever evolving and innovative bid to be worth £80m to the area’s departments. Having already economy and prompt a huge rise in provided a secondment to the bid tourist numbers. Join us in backing group, led by Belgrade Theatre the bid by showing your support in

evolve 05 Paving the way to a better campus New landscape for Coventry students Enhanced pedestrian safety

oventry University students will soon see Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The work is being the landscape transformed in a popular area managed by the City Council on behalf of the University. C of campus. It will also enhance pedestrian safety through the With a total investment of £5m, the work – called the creation of new entrances to the car parks, additional ‘Public Realm’ project - will transform the area between lighting, a new ‘help point’ and full CCTV coverage. Gosford Street and the Engineering and Computing The work is due to be completed by the end of Building. It will improve connectivity across campus as September 2015. well as transform the landscape and create an attractive A new entrance and exit to our multi storey car park area to spend time in or pass through. and the City Council’s Gosford Street car park has been The project is a joint development with Coventry City created, which will enhance pedestrian safety between Council, and is funded by the University and the European Gosford Street and the Student Centre. £14million Scarborough campus gets green light

tudents will soon be able Based on the career focused “We believe this campus will to receive the Coventry model of higher education pioneered enhance the education, skills and S University experience in in Coventry, the new campus aims to career prospects of local people for North Yorkshire after we were given address the employment and skills many years to come,” he said. permission to build a new £14m needs of the Yorkshire coast and “We are also aware, however, that campus in Scarborough. wider region. the development has to be handled From this September, we will Professor Craig Gaskell has with sensitivity and in consultation already be teaching at a number been appointed provost of with those who live closest to the of iconic venues across the town, the Scarborough campus. He site. We will keep local people, but the planning decision means believes that the project will have businesses and other stakeholders we will also have our own Coventry a ‘transformational, economic and informed as our plans move University Scarborough campus, social impact’ on the area. forward.” which will be built and opened by September 2016.

06 evolve The start of something big ork has started on a for teaching and research and that will include state-of-the-art brand new Science and should help to attract the best healthcare simulation and super-lab W Health Building, which students and staff to Coventry environments. will open its doors to students in University. As well as the new Science and early 2017. Our existing science laboratory Health Building, we’re investing The building, serving our faculty and health simulation facilities considerably in other facilities of Health and Life Sciences, will be consolidated into the for the faculty, including the contains state-of-the-art facilities modern multidisciplinary building, refurbishment of the Richard Crossman building.

Artist’s impression of the new Science and Health building

Artist’s impression of the new Scarborough campus building

evolve 07 Gerry McGovern Leading by design

08 evolve From Coventry to California and back, Gerry McGovern has headed up the design studios of some of the world’s best known car brands. A recent visit to the campus gave Evolve a chance to catch-up with the high-flying Industrial Design alumnus.

erry McGovern lives and breathes design. The Coventry-born Director of Design and Chief Creative Officer for Land Rover is a busy man, juggling responsibility for the design of the iconic British-built all-terrain vehiclesG – it was him who conceived the bold and big- selling Evoque – with a wider remit developing the look and feel of the thriving Land Rover brand as a whole. As he sits chatting with Evolve in the Alan Berry building (the former F-block), Gerry’s enthusiasm for his profession is plain to see, and you’d be forgiven for imagining that cars, and designing cars, are his all-consuming passions. “Actually, I don’t consider myself a car nut,” he reflects. “I’m more of a design nut. I’m always collecting stuff, whether it’s art or furniture – particularly classics from the 1930s, mid-century, or up-to-date contemporary. I have to stop myself buying things.” He’s animated as he describes a 1960s designer floor lamp from Italy that he’s recently acquired for his Warwickshire home, sketching its shape in the air as he might sketch a car concept on the page. Evidently vehicle design is just one part of a much broader fascination Gerry has for the arts; a fascination that he’s had since his early days in Coventry. Back then, did he ever suspect he would become a renowned design leader in the automotive industry? “Not in the slightest! At one time I wanted to be an artist, even though in those days I didn’t know Henry Moore from Charlie Cairoli. Car design only really came to mind because I was told there was more money in it. That really resonated with a working class kid from Coventry.” It was that working class kid who started at Binley Park School in Coventry, and who would later study Industrial Design at the Lanchester Polytechnic before graduating to the Royal College of Art. Built in the modernist style that came to encapsulate the city itself,

Big Interview Binley Park School was to prove an unlikely inspiration in Gerry’s own design journey.

evolve 09 I think I’d like to see more people who “are entrepreneurial, visionary, and who are tacticians – but who are also highly design literate.

“I certainly think Coventry as a city influenced my leanings towards modernism. Binley Park was built in that international modernist” vernacular of the early sixties, and the house I own near the Product Development Centre particularly appealed to me because it was in a modernist style and reminded me of the school. “Of course modernism got a pretty bad rap throughout Britain subsequently, particularly in the seventies. But the guy who redeveloped Coventry after the war, Gibson, was a visionary – and he was a modernist, of course. I remember sitting in the Lower Precinct’s circular café as a kid. It was all glass. It was about looking forward.” There would certainly be no looking back for Gerry a few years later when, while still at school, he found himself on the receiving end of an offer of an apprenticeship from the renowned and highly respected car designer Royden Axe of Chrysler Europe. Based in Whitley on the site of JLR’s current headquarters, Gerry worked in the US car giant’s UK design studios, and was sponsored by Axe to take up the Lanchester there was a guy called Rupert Dean, a student on the Polytechnic’s esteemed Industrial Design course. course. He was an interesting character! His brother did “I was quite fortunate when I got into the business,” the artwork for the ‘Yes’ albums.” says Gerry. “It was a completely different landscape With so much having changed in the industry and at in those days. Chrysler gave me an apprenticeship in the university over the years – and with his career having design, which was unique at the time, and as a part-time taken him all over the world to head up design studios education I studied for one day a week at the Lanchester at the likes of California, Michigan and London – Gerry Poly. We wouldn’t do it that way today. is clearly keen to take advantage of opportunities to “The techniques we used when I started out and when reconnect with his roots where he can. I was studying here were also very different from how it’s “In the early days I did have a lot of involvement with done now. I can remember using pastel on sugar vellum, the University, for example coming down and selecting but that was on the way out and the new technique was placement students. We would come along for the magic markers on layout paper and vellum. Now a huge degree shows to see the students’ work. amount of design work is done on the screen. “When I left the area and started to travel, though, “When I was studying here, of course, it wasn’t through that middle part of your career you tend to be Automotive Design – it was Industrial Design. I remember so engrossed in what you’re doing that the education

10 evolve Range Rover LWB, New York, 2014

Discovery Sport, Iceland, 2014 Evoque Wire Frame Installation, New York, 2012 part goes away for a while. In a way I’ve started to come very often. A lot of the graduates coming out of college back. There’s that thing about legacy and wanting to give and university just want to design the exterior shape of a back and help.” vehicle, and that’s fine. But it won’t be enough to sustain The global success story that is Jaguar Land Rover is them throughout a career. certainly ensuring that Gerry has plenty on his plate as he “The world has changed significantly, and the drives forward the Coventry-based carmaker’s creative contribution design now makes to the business is agenda. The McGovern-designed Discovery Sport model massive. We have to look at all our vehicles and how they has just been launched, and the 2016 facelift for the relate to one another, and how the design strategy relates Evoque – whose original design team comprised some to the brand architecture. These are the things that are Coventry University graduates – is on the horizon. important in order to train designers, because at some As a final word, would he have any advice for the point they will become part of it.” aspiring car design professionals of the future who might With both the university and JLR keen to maintain the be inspired by his and JLR’s story? strong links built over the years, there’s a good chance “I think I’d like to see more people who are that Coventry alumni will continue to play a leading entrepreneurial, visionary, and who are strategic – but role as part of the company’s ambitious journey into an who are also highly design literate. You don’t find that exciting new design era.

evolve 11 Coventry: Proud past, bright future

f you’ve visited Coventry recently, the Ring Road to give visitors a vastly The transformation of the you’ll know that the face of improved welcome and draw them Cathedral Lanes Shopping Centre I the city centre has changed into the heart of the city. into a new restaurant quarter is also dramatically over the last 18 months The decision by the City Council underway with well-known brands as a result of major improvements to to move to Friargate in 2017 has signed up and ready to open later Broadgate, Council House Square given the University the chance to this year. and Medieval Spon Street. purchase the buildings to create a Any modern city also includes The projects, brought about new headquarters, an international vibrant cultural and living quarters through investment and grant student centre, a research hotel and where the entrepreneurs, retailers, funding, have been designed to a business incubation space right artists and city dwellers link together improve the look and feel of our great in the heart of the city in the largest to bring a city to life. To encourage city for visitors and residents, and to single expansion in its history – again this vibrancy, two new creative be a catalyst for further investment bringing significant improvements to villages have been developed to move Coventry forward as a key the environment. to bring a new dimension to the visitor and business destination. Delivering a major retail-led city centre making it the perfect One development key to that improvement scheme is also an destination for everyone to relax and success is the Friargate project essential component of delivering enjoy. The Student Village welcomes which will see one of the biggest a city centre fit for the future. The students from across the globe to transformations in the city for £300m City Centre South project Coventry and Fargo Village is the decades. Creating a new £59m aims to transform an area of the new creative quarter. central business quarter for Coventry city and will incorporate shops, Coventry is a dynamic city, proud around its railway station, it will a cinema, hotel, apartments and of its past and confident of its future. include a new boulevard deck over a multi-storey car park with a 2018 completion date.

Fargo Village Friargate Study Inn

12 evolve Friargate development

Friargate development

For more information on the recent developments in the city, please visit: www.coventry-warwickshire.co.uk/investing or contact Sarah Perry, Coventry and Warwickshire Place Manager, [email protected]

evolve 13 Enterprise: Visionary graduate challenges the music industry

V talent shows such as X-Factor have done little to T promote the ‘nice’ side of the entertainment industry. Tearful stories reveal how difficult I can’t sing the it can be for someone to ‘make’ it in what is perceived to be a cut-throat industry – even for those who are University’s praises considered to be established. Most entertainers are self- employed so, alongside perfecting enough in the growth their craft, they also need to manage their finances, be good at “ self-promotion and have excellent of the company. connections. And all this must be achieved while maintaining self- confidence and a belief that they will succeed. It’s a tall order and one that defeats many aspiring artists, Coventry University that Susanna Susanna has partnered with says Coventry graduate Susanna had her eureka moment. “I kept experienced professionals to help Westwood, a singer songwriter who having conversations with other deliver the support packages, and has just launched Emergeination artists about how frustrated they names artists that have worked – an online platform for emerging were about certain aspects of their with Take That, Prince and Beverley artists to promote and sell their career development. I had this idea Knight among her list of ‘experts’. products and services worldwide. circling around my head and I woke Fashion is also covered with As well as being able to use the up one night and started to write it someone who has showcased website to promote their work, all down.” collections at the London and New subscribers are also able to gain Susanna’s midnight scribbles have York Fashion Weeks and she is knowledge and guidance through progressed to an online business collaborating with Sky TV and the training DVDs and online mentoring that is now valued at £1.5m and BBC on commercial film projects. support from industry experts. has received over £350,000 worth While Susanna always knew she “We need an alternative way for of private investment. Not bad wanted to run her own creative artists to develop. Not just to survive for someone who knew nothing business, the challenges were in their career but to actually thrive about technology. different from her career recording in a place where they actually grow “There’s only one of me and using albums and working as a session and make an impact,” said Susanna, online technology was the only way musician and dancer. who believes she has hit on we could get my idea out to the During her Masters, she launched the answer. world. I knew about the arts industry Imprint Productions, a record label It was after studying part-time but I didn’t know about online and network for professional artists for a Masters in Performing Arts, platforms. But I remember feeling but she was also keen to create Innovation and Enterprise at if I don’t do this, someone else will, something that would nurture so let’s go for it.” new talent.

14 evolve Launch event Launch event

Launch event

Rose red emerging artist dil project

Susanna Westwood & Abby Scott

It was after graduation that her of the company,” said Susanna Susanna is proof that creative relationship with the University who first piloted the platform with businesses can happen and she really matured. Coventry’s arts students. “When is now in the throes of launching Susanna received business you’re unsure about anything the new products and services for her guidance from the team at the team have opened doors for me and growing number of subscribers. University’s Institute of Applied provided the opportunities to meet A mobile app is currently under Entrepreneurship (IAE), who helped investors. Without that, it would have development and she is also in her acquire more funding. hindered the growth of the business talks with record labels in the USA A successful pitch to the dramatically.” for the next stage of the company’s University’s Chancellor Sir John The amount of business support international expansion. Egan and business investor David on offer to Coventry graduates was “My goal is that we have amazing Harding secured funding from the not something Susanna had realised artists that not only know their craft University’s Student Enterprise Fund would be available once she had left. but also their business inside and and the Creative Innovation Fund. She now makes students aware of out so they can make an impact The presentation even resulted in what’s on offer – and it’s the basis for in industries around the world. David later becoming a director of what Emergeination is all about. “We We all have the ability to make and investor in Emergeination. want to show emerging artists that a difference and this is what I “I can’t sing the University’s you can have an idea, and a vision hope Emergeination will help praises enough – they have just for what you want to do and you can others achieve.” been instrumental in the growth actually make it happen.”

Visit www.emergeination.com for more information and to seek support from the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship contact +44 (0)24 7623 6001 or visit www.coventry.ac.uk/iae evolve 15 International International alumni remain important to us and there are lots of benefits to being involved, as we launch our new strategy.

here’s no doubt that our We offer a range of activities and see people sharing and exchanging international students and initiatives to support international ideas. It’s also great to see people alumni enhance our cultural students before they arrive, during who have been successful and to T capital. In fact, they are their time here and after they leave discover how far a Coventry degree essential to our success. us. This level of integration is the can take you.” It was in 1973 when the University’s reason why so many overseas Graduates are invited back international story began – with the graduates recommend Coventry to speak to students about their first overseas students arriving from University to others. experiences – and there are plans China. The numbers have steadily We embed our international to create an alumni version of the grown – and this year we welcomed agenda throughout: from a Global Leaders Programme, which 7,000 international students from comprehensive work experience would include exclusive access 140 different countries to our programme – one of the largest to industry leaders for advice campus. in the world for students gaining and support. It’s a growth spurt that is fairly placements abroad – to partnerships While the alumni international unique to UK universities. Where with leading institutions around programme is still evolving, others have struggled, we’ve the world. There is even a Global India, Nigeria and China are now excelled – something that the Leaders Programme aimed at benefiting from Alumni Network Deputy Vice-Chancellor for enhancing students’ understanding and Employability Officers and international development of a global industry through talks International Alumni Ambassadors. Dr David Pilsbury believes is from leading business figures and Our focus through these roles is to due to our uncomplicated offer. additional classes on the topic. offer a careers service for graduates “We have a simple and great We’re now looking to build on looking for work in those countries proposition – a comprehensive our services for graduates living and to make connections with curriculum, great teaching quality overseas. There is a determined alumni businesses in their respective and we care about our students,” effort to ensure more alumni attend locations, as well as providing regular explained Dr Pilsbury. “We ensure the events held in different countries networking opportunities. our international students are throughout the year. “We want to increase the offer socially and culturally integrated. We “It’s fantastic to see the hugging for our international alumni,” added embrace the different perspectives and the real emotional outpouring Dr Pilsbury. “We want to understand international students bring to our when alumni get together,” said what we could do to be more courses and campus, which is great Dr Pilsbury. “There are also the useful to them. Their influence on for home students too.” networking opportunities these our campus as students was gatherings provide and it’s great to immense and we want to continue that partnership.”

16 evolve International

More support International alumni interested in getting involved or offering work placements or jobs to Coventry students should contact the alumni team [email protected]. Please also send any suggestions for how you would like the University to support international graduates to this address too.

evolve 17 FOCUS on Hong Kong

ore than 70 alumni and staff came together in early May to network Mand celebrate the success of Coventry University graduates in Hong Kong. Taking place in one of Hong Kong’s trendiest locations – the Sky Lounge in Upper House – the evening offered an opportunity to hear about the latest developments on campus and Coventry’s ambitious plans for the future from Vice-Chancellor Prof John Latham as well as an inspiring account of his time at Coventry and subsequent success from key note speaker and alumnus Dr Otto Poon. For further networking opportunities in Hong Kong and to connect with fellow alumni in the region, please join the ‘FOCUS on Hong Kong’ group on Linkedin at this link: www.linkedin.com/grp/ home?gid=8105118

18 evolve Building a global community – are you IN?

ver 300 alumni and representatives from the Ministry of Education, British O Council and leading academic and industry partners recently came together to celebrate our success in our biggest international event to date. Taking place in the prestigious Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, the event also marked the launch of a range of new services for alumni as part of building a new global community under the banner “Are you IN?”. Our Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Latham, outlined to guests and the press the new activities that will be delivered as part of rolling out the next phase of the University’s China strategy. This includes additional staff being recruited to the CU Group offices in Beijing and Hangzhou to work directly with alumni to assist them with CV development and securing work experience and permanent job opportunities. We will also be developing bespoke professional networking tools to aid our alumni community to connect with one another and to support networking alongside a series of events each year. Staff will also be recruited in China to develop more research partnerships and corporate links. In order to support this activity, we’ve recently formally registered as a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise in China – one of only a few overseas universities to have achieved this - and have extended our support geographically, opening an office in Hong Kong. The President of Guandong University of Foreign Studies said Coventry has worked in partnership with major local universities, and that our success was rooted in a deep commitment to the country and an understanding of how to effectively drive international engagement for the benefit of students, staff and other stakeholders.

evolve 19 Development Hope at the touch of a button for those at risk

n July, the University launched ‘Petals’, a web app designed to Iinform young people about the dangers of female genital mutilation (FGM). The app, which works across most mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets and lap tops via an internet browser, is aimed primarily at young girls living in affected communities and at risk from FGM. However, it can also be used as an educational tool to teach young people and others the facts and realities of the practise. FGM - sometimes called female genital cutting, female circumcision or sunna - refers to procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non- medical reasons. The practice has been illegal in the UK since 1985 but is a growing problem because so many people have migrated to the UK from African and Asian countries where it is Above: FGM Petals App intro screen and FGM lifebelt character seen as a cultural tradition and widely practised. The app was developed by Maintaining personal The app’s content includes the Centre for Communities confidentiality and safeguarding information about FGM, personal and Social Justice (CCSJ), the potentially vulnerable users was stories from those who have been Centre for Excellence in Learning integral to the app’s design and it affected, views of women, men Enhancement (CELE), and the has been developed with built-in and religious leaders; links to Development and Alumni Relations privacy features. educational films, a quiz and tips on Office (DARO) and was funded by The hope is that the app will how to get involved in campaigning The Pamela Barlow Charitable Trust, help to safeguard girls and young to end the practice. It also provides the Eleanor Rathbone Charitable women at risk and eventually details of where those affected or at Trust and The 1970 Trust. Young eradicate the barbaric practice risk can go to get help and advice people at Sidney Stringer Academy of FGM in this country. and it enables users to access the in Coventry trialed the app before it To view the app please visit NSPCC’s National FGM Helpline went live to ensure that the content, http://petals.coventry.ac.uk at the touch of a button. language, look, feel and functionality and please share with your family, were appropriate and relevant. friends and colleagues.

If you have any comments or would like any further information please contact: Deanne Dunstan, Senior Bid Writer in the Development and Alumni Relations Office. Tel: 02477 658264 or email [email protected]

20 evolve Lanchester Interactive Discovering Frederick Lanchester

ost of you will know that For over 30 years his cars were Coventry University was built in Sparkbrook, Birmingham M once named Lanchester until his company was taken over Polytechnic, in honour of the great by Daimler in 1931 and the cars engineer Frederick Lanchester and built in Coventry. today the University Library still The University has the largest bears his name. However, it’s a sad collection of Frederick Lanchester but true fact that few people know archives in the world and through very much about this amazingly our project, we aim to preserve creative man. and protect the collection but more Over the last two years, we’ve importantly bring the collection been working on a new project to life and create an enthusiasm How can you help? – Lanchester Interactive – which and passion for science and will bring Lanchester’s works back engineering. We are going to re you an engineering to life so that many more people do this by: alumnus and/or a of all generations can learn and • repairing, preserving and A Lanchester Polytechnic understand the importance of our digitising all the original archives alumnus? Would you like to get heritage and are inspired to see • building an online, interactive involved in this project? engineering as an exciting and platform which will feature If so, we are looking for creative career opportunity. thousands of digitised images volunteers to support visitors in Dr Frederick Lanchester (1868 – that anyone can access the Lanchester Discovery Room in 1946) was one of Britain’s greatest • creating a Lanchester Discovery the library, to help with archiving, engineers and inventors. He created Space in the University Library and to help out with school and the first all-British 4-wheel petrol which will be open all year community events. car and the first all-British motor round At the same time if you know of boat. He also patented the original • delivering a programme of companies/businesses who might disc brake. outreach activities into schools like to support the project please let Lanchester’s work made a big and the wider community us know. Most of the project will be impact on the UK automotive throughout Coventry funded through the Heritage Lottery industry locally and nationally. Fund but we do need to find some additional match funding. To find out more, please contact Deanne Dunstan in the Development and Alumni Relations office on - 02477 658264 or email [email protected]

evolve 21 Feature Gardening Leave – a sanctuary for our soldiers Gardening has long been touted as a relaxing pastime but its therapeutic qualities are now being used to benefit ex-service men and women adjusting to a civilian life, thanks to Coventry alumni.

Anna Baker Cresswell Joanna Wise

he protective few months while I was looking launch Gardening Leave – a charity environment of a walled after her, my walled garden became that would offer horticultural therapy garden can act as a a great comfort to me,” explained to heal the mental wounds of war. sanctuary for those Anna. “It had always stayed with A diploma in Social and looking to recalibrate me how much my friends had Therapeutic Horticulture from Ttheir minds from the devastation of changed when they returned from Coventry University gave her the active combat. And opportunities in serving in the Falklands. When my credentials she needed to attract the land-based sector are proving mother died, the connection was just funding and partners to set up the popular for those seeking a new compelling.” charity in 2007. direction after serving their country. Anna explored the theory that It was this same course that Identifying that the healing properties veterans, who exhibited symptoms would lead 2012 graduate Joanna of gardening could aid those leaving such as hyper-vigilance, anxiety Wise to take up a role at Gardening the military was a realisation that and depression, would find a walled Leave and on to writing the book Anna Baker Cresswell made while garden a safe environment to relax Digging for Victory on the subject caring for her mother, a former in as they had a clear picture of what of horticulture supporting veterans, Nightingale nurse. “My mother had was all around them. Spurred on by which has recently been published Parkinson’s disease and in the last her mother’s memory, she decided to by Karnac Books.

22 evolve Joanna, whose career began in fruit and veg, you can feed your psychology, worked for a short time family – you have the sense of being at Gardening Leave and saw first- a provider,” explained Joanna. This hand how people from the armed ‘work ethic’ is what moved Anna services were being helped. on from Gardening Leave and to “When they come out of service, It had always her new venture – a charity called these men and women of action, stayed with me how HighGround, which is focused on who are used to being pragmatic, finding employment for those who have to recalibrate their identity much my friends have left the forces. to become civilians and it is a big “While horticultural therapy for transition. Some of them struggle had changed when veterans is good, I discovered what to do it and for those who have they need most of all is a diversion seen active combat they can go on they returned from – they need a job. We all do in some to develop Post Traumatic Stress shape or form,” said Anna, who Disorder (PTSD),” said Joanna, serving in the describes HighGround as the child who has seen veterans set up their of Gardening Leave. She is now own gardening businesses after Falklands. When my delivering Rural Weeks at agricultural being influenced by the charity. colleges for ex-military men and “Horticultural therapy is a very mother died, the women seeking a new vocation. The accessible – and cost effective five-day courses introduce them to – package towards mental and connection was just roles in forestry, farming conservation physical health. It’s culturally compelling. and landscape garden design as well acceptable to be digging a garden as source training, funding and work and more natural, for men especially, experience to help them fill any skills than sitting in a chair talking to gaps. Anna could see how military a counsellor.” Gardening Leave, structured my skills were easily transferable to the Joanna’s gardening connections book and is also helping me with the land-based sector. started when she gave up a next part of my journey. The diploma “They are outdoor people anyway. challenging job in psychology to pulled together all the things I am They are motivated, good problem be a full time mum and set up her passionate about. I’d found where I solvers, good communicators and own garden design business. The was supposed to be.” they enjoy teamwork. That’s all the enterprise fitted perfectly around As well as writing the book, stuff that’s vitally important for land- school hours but as her daughter Joanna is now developing a social based businesses,” explained Anna. grew up, Joanna realised she missed enterprise that will give veterans tools The courses are proving popular the healing side of her work. and information about horticultural and Anna already has plans to She joined the Harington therapy to help them through the expand them wider across the Scheme – an organisation that uses early stages of recovery and to UK. But despite these efforts, and horticultural therapy to help young integrate them back into society. Joanna’s new book, Anna believes adults with learning disabilities and/or There are also plans to develop a there is still a long way to go before difficulties to move into employment scheme to fund bursaries so that horticultural therapy receives the or further education. After watching ex-military individuals can train to recognition it deserves. horticulture transform lives, Joanna become Horticultural Therapists “Social and therapeutic wanted to explore this area further on the course at Coventry and horticulture still hasn’t really taken off. and chose to study at Coventry. then extend the same help to their There is interest in the prisons and “The course was a game-changer contemporaries in need. I have pioneered it with the military for me,” admitted Joanna.“ It gave “Horticultural therapy can help group but it’s a shame more people me the information I needed to you recalibrate your identity and aren’t seeing its benefits. We need to feel that I had something to offer give you self esteem. If you grow shout about it more.”

For more information about a diploma in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture visit our website at www.coventry.ac.uk To find out more about Highground: visitwww.highground-uk.org. Digging for Victory: Horticultural Therapy with Veterans for Post-Traumatic Growth’ is available from www.karnacbooks.com

evolve 23 Seeing Stars: Coventry’s rich music scene

24 evolve Coventry has always had a rich musical heritage and the University – or The Lanch – is a big part of it.

sk any Coventry graduate about their favourite memories of the city and the Seeing chances are they’ll say the gigs. With the main hall of the former Students’ Union building hosting some of Athe biggest bands in the country as well as the smaller, more intimate Biko Bar downstairs, there was something for everyone all through the week. “I’d go to one or the other every Friday and Saturday night and then probably another in the week,” said Simon Carter, who studied a BSc (Hons) Geography at Coventry between 1984 and 1988, and who is now Executive Director of Marketing for Fujitsu. “I saw everyone from The Damned, Lloyd Cole, Prefab Sprout… all of the big bands of that era. I saw Sigue Sigue Sputnik twice – once in the downstairs bar before they were famous with about six other people; and again a few months later when they had had a couple of hits and they sold out the main Students’ Union.” Coventry students’ demand for top acts – and the SU’s ability to secure them – was one reason why the ‘Lanch’ was able to draw some of the country’s biggest names. But performers also knew that it was a great place to play. Local soul star Ray King – who had a stellar career touring the world and playing with legends such as Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye – has always loved playing his hometown, especially the main hall at the Students’ Union. “You had to perform with a lot of energy,” he said. “It’s a big hall and you need speakers to fill the space. Sometimes you would see an act arriving with small speakers and we used to let them use ours because if you were playing the Lanch and one band went down, it would affect all the rest.” And for an act like Ray, who would go on tour to places like Hamburg where he played all-night gigs on the famous Reeperbahn around the corner from The Beatles, coming home to Coventry was always a special experience. “We always looked forward to coming back here,” he said, “and we would try our new songs because the audience knew their stuff. I remember Georgie Fame saying Coventry audiences are the hardest. If you can The Specials on stage at the ‘Lanch’ Main Hall, September 1980 get a clap from them, then you’re made.”

evolve 25 The Specials’ Terry Hall and Neville Staple

But as well as being a great venue for students to see “There must have been 20 or 30 groups popping up all the biggest bands in the country, the Lanch played an over Coventry during my time,” added David. “The best important role in putting the City on the musical map. known, aside from Ray King, were The Sorrows and The “The Lanch Festivals were huge,” said local music Mighty Avengers.” journalist and historian Pete Chambers. “It was a really Ray says that the Lanch was a great place for well known festival and they got some great acts. developing young talent. “The most famous thing out of it being Chuck Berry “The Lanch was a place for local bands to express recording My Ding-a-Ling, which was performed at themselves,” said Ray. “It would run local nights and Tiffany’s because there wasn’t the space at the Lanch some of the bands would be playing their first gigs. main hall. And the first live performances of Monty Python The students came from all over the country, but they were done at The Belgrade as part of the Lanch Festival.” all respected Coventry music. We had a big music history At the height of punk rock, the Lanch had the Clash even though our bands didn’t always make it big like and the Sex Pistols playing the main hall together, just in Liverpool or Manchester.” days before the Pistols’ famous appearance on TV with That all changed with the 2-Tone movement, Bill Grundy. something that would have looked very different if it “Joe Strummer was wearing swastikas and the wasn’t for Ray, who introduced many of the people who Students’ Union thought he was a fascist so they didn’t would go on to form The Specials. want to pay him. It’s crazy to think that now, because Joe “As Lynval Golding said, ‘No Ray King, no Specials.’ Strummer is one of the least fascist people in the world.” He helped to galvanise the 2-Tone movement,” said Pete. Local promoter David Owen worked very closely with “There are a lot of music heroes around and Ray is one of the Lanch and other venues throughout the 1960s. He them. He helped a lot of groups and artists and he’s still said: “The Coventry music scene was brought about doing it.” through the Lanch more than anywhere else. Students wanted music and it spread from that. They were a vibrant lot and always wanted the latest thing.” Museum preserves David was able to work with Bryan Epstein to bring Coventry’s musical history The Beatles to Coventry and he also brought The Visitors to Coventry can re-live their experiences with a Monkees, the Walker Brothers, Amen Corner and the visit to the Coventry Music Museum. Moodies. “One of the big nights – there were so many! The museum, which is located in the 2-Tone Village – was having the Rockin’ Berries, that was a cracking on Walsgrave Road, includes listening booths and a vast night. The Yardbirds and Herman’s Hermits were array of artefacts, which have either been donated by brilliant too.” musicians or the personal collection of curator The importance of the music scene in Coventry – and Pete Chambers. Coventry’s importance to music – meant that the city has always had a vital role to play in nurturing local talent. www.covmm.co.uk

26 evolve the interviewees

Pete Chambers Ray King Simon Carter

Coventry graduate Simon Carter looks back at some of his diaries…

…Wednesday 2nd Oct 1984 – “…I was first past the turnstile, and found Billy Bragg T-Shirts for sale, so after borrowing £2, bought 2 T-Shirts and 2 badges – ace! Eventually into the Main Hall and I got right to the front – up against the stage, directly in front of the mike stand! Ace! Billy Bragg came on first and did four or five numbers, then the Hank Wangford Band – a 6-piece country outfit, but witty & fairly good. Then the Frank Chickens – 2 Chinese girls miming and singing to backing tracks – OK, but a bit repetitive. Then Billy Bragg came on again for an hour including encore with both supports joining him back on stage. Really enjoyed it, although pretty squashed. Finished at 11.30…”

Thu 15th Nov 1984 – “…changed into black and white spotty jeans, Theatre of Hate T-shirt, pixie boots & spiked up my hair, then walked down to the Union. No-one else dressed punky at all – felt a bit embarrassed! Went downstairs and saw Dr Feelgood – ace! Got right to the front and moving all the time, with loads of people pressed up against me. Guitarist excellent, and shook hands with both him and the Dr – amazing stage presence! Played three sets of encores – my shirt & jacket absolutely soaking! Walked home…”

Thu 7th Feb 1985 – “…Had a couple of drinks in the downstairs bar, then upstairs for Boomtown Rats. Got within 2 rows of the front! Concert was absolutely out of this world amazing and Bob Geldof was excellent! Really hot and cramped and knackered, and lost my voice due to too much singing, but well worth it. Did “Do they know it’s Christmas” as an encore and I was the second of only 3 people to shake hands with Bob, and the first person to shake hands with Johnny Museum preserves Fingers!! Gave 36p at the end to Ethiopia Appeal. We left, then tried to get back in to see the band, Coventry’s musical history but told to push off, so left and got chips and home at 2am…”

Fri 25th Oct 1985 – “…caught bus into town & into the Union with my mate Piglet from home. Noticed that a band called Sigue Sigue Sputnik were playing in the downstairs bar – never heard of them, but Pig had, and said they were excellent, and included a member of Generation X… so down we went - £3 to get in. Quite a lot of people there, although mainly non-students. Group finally came on at 11.00 – lead singer had amazing pink hair. Really good and Piglet mega-impressed! For the last song, the vocalist told everyone to get on stage, so they did… and Pig ran on to protect the keyboard stack as the crowded stage nearly pushed them over! Left at 11.45, got chips and walked home.” Student Diary

evolve 27 28 evolve evolve Get connected good foundation. with fellowstudents,itwasa - were verygood.I’mstillfriends (you willnoteIstudiedpolitics!). ‘Biology Society’ breweries underthename ofthe and recovering from visitstolocal top 30ontheradioinPrioryHall back memoriesoflisteningtothe University enterthe‘top30’.Brought it. Very pleasedtoseeCoventry in particulargetsomuchoutof is fantasticasitworks!Victims Justice (RJ)inWest Dorset. RJ per weekcoordinating Restorative 2012 Olympics.Inowwork3days an Inspectorafterhelpingplanthe police after32years.Iretired as Really enjoyingretirement from the Studies(1976) Modern Alan Jenkins Law (1972) Roger Taylor after CU after graduatesreveal theirlives Coventry by [email protected]. Get backintouchwitholdfriends Graduated 1970s Graduated 1970s particular Renton in tutors -Bruce Notary, the solicitor and a commercial my career as started meon Lanchester michaelgreenphotos My photoscanbeseenatwww.facebook.com/ trophy. Mypassionforthehobbyhasreturned! first year, wonthePhotographerof Year the DaventryPhotographySocietyand,inmy years agoIwentbacktomypasthobby, joined as itsooftenhappens,Ilostthepassion.Two I studiedphotographyaspartofmydegree but, Graphic Design(1984) Michael Green Part ofmyjobisproviding guidedtours! building modelaircraft kits-dreadful isn’t it). (one ofmyprojects, allmyownidea,involves history oftheUKNuclearWeapons Programme means Inowworkinourmuseumcovering the Researcher inourEducationalCollection.This I amnowsettledintoanewrole asaHistorical Physical Science(1988) Paul Burton Graduated 1980s Graduated 1990s Graduated 2000s

Bernard Coxhead Claire Greenwood Peter Arthern Civil Engineering with European Computer Studies (1990) Development and Health in Studies (1998) Thank you, Disaster Management (2000) I now have 17 years experience I have just Recently returned from 3 years received my as a Contractor having worked for some of the main contractors. I am working for a relief NGO in first-ever issue Afghanistan. I worked on projects in of Evolve. I a Divisional Business Manager at Land & Water Services. I also have nutrition, food security and disaster didn’t expect risk reduction. to hear from just become a Chartered Manager the Uni almost and awarded a fellowship of the 25 years after Chartered Management Institute. I graduated I am also Senior Vice Chair of the from it East Midlands Institution of Civil (when it was still a Poly)! I enjoyed Engineers branch and I will be Chair studying for HND Computer Studies in September 2015. One of my as a mature student of 40, and the happiest times at Coventry University diploma was helpful to my career was on a field course in final year in computing at Rolls-Royce, EDS on the Gower Peninsula, setting and Jacobs Engineering during the out and establishing GPS control. subsequent 20-odd years. I am now Phase Disco was also particularly retired, but still interested. memorable. Jason Nevins Gary Stocker David Adams Information Technology for Engineering (Combined) (1991) LLB (Hons) (2006) Management (1999) Up until January of 2013 I had Although I remember worked in Civil Engineering for now retired Coventry nearly twenty years. I finally got my from full time University dream job working as a Research employment having good and Development Technician at as a facilities Sandvik Hard materials (now Sandvik Corporate and the Hyperion) down Torrington Avenue Treasurer I still students in Coventry. My favourite memory remain the being very of Coventry was the fact that it was Chairman of polite. I my first taste of independence away the Express would advise all undergraduates to from home. Although I did not think Trustees Ltd. spend as much time as possible of the world as my oyster exactly, The corporate trustee for a £750M studying. Living in the world today it did make me aware of a lot more defined benefit pension fund. without a 1st or 2:1 degree is possibilities than I had done before. very tough.

Ralph Solly Graphic Design and Illustration (2008) Now working in Baker Street for design studio, Oracle Creative, Brand Identity, Brochure, Leaflet, Hoarding, Advertising, Stationary & Editorial Design, as well as illustration of maps and buildings for the commercial and luxury property and residential industries. Also freelance graphic design for record labels, brand identity, night-club flyer and poster design.

evolve 29 Graduated 2010s

Gareth Price-Baghurst Theatre and Professional Practice (2011) I am a touring freelance actor-musician, working with many companies on different styles of projects. I travel all over the country for meetings, rehearsals, networking events, productions and performances. Not only do I work and perform with various theatre companies, I am creating my own work with my own company the ‘Fabularium’ - a Cov Uni initiative! I am also set to record an album with an acoustic band by the end of this year.

Richard Brown Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (2010) In 2013 I received a Winston Haroon Mota Churchill Fellowship to travel to the BSc Honours: Sport and USA and Canada to examine the Exercise Science (2008) practice of horticultural therapy as I work as a a medical treatment. My report of Youth Support the findings was published by the Coordinator Winston Churchill Memorial Trust on the in 2014. It has received interest Teenage from Canada, USA, Australia Cancer Ward and Sweden as well as the UK. at UCLH The report has been submitted Hospital in as evidence for a medical facility London, where I offer recreational & to include horticulture in North therapeutic support to young people Carolina and as part of an award who have cancer. Back in April, I ran submission for the Michigan the London Marathon and raised Horticultural Therapy Association. over £10,000 for Teenage Cancer I am employed as the Horticultural Trust. Since leaving University, I’ve Practitioner with South West trekked to Mt Everest Basecamp, Yorkshire NHS Trust and I use hiked in Peru, ran many marathons, horticultural therapy to treat skydived and much more; and assess adults with learning raising over £100,000 for various disabilities at the Horizon Centre in humanitarian causes. It’s so much Wakefield. fun and I’d love others to connect with and join me. You could join me at the Birmingham Danielle Green Half Marathon this October, or Event Management (2013) maybe run the Coventry Half My whole experience at Coventry Marathon in February 2016? University is something I will always It would be great to hear from treasure. The course was the best anyone interested in getting involved. choice I could have done with it being Follow me on Twitter: both educational and fun with the field @Haroon_Mota. trips. Team SEM!

30 evolve Hannah Gale Youth Work (2012) Barnardo’s came and did a Email your updates for the next issue of presentation while I was at Coventry University. They inspired me to work evolve to for them and 2 years after graduating [email protected] and working in the same field I’m there. I work with young people who are sexually exploited so it is a highly stressful job with the current media, but Tom Murrell I am totally driven after being awarded Computing (2010) my first class BA Honors. Joined Walls and Floors web team as a post-graduate. Now web development manager of a team of 7, grown from 2 since 2010. Managing web development and online marketing, in particular search engine marketing for ecommerce websites; across search, display, video, shopping and mobile. Now a certified Google Partner in Advertising online. Regularly visit Google HQ in London and Google EU HQ in Ireland for strategy and analysis meetings with industry experts. Recently a guest speaker at Google talking about growing Aimee Southall retail business online and our digital Law (2013) transformation at leading online tile I thoroughly enjoyed studying for my specialists www.wallsandfloors. Law Degree at Coventry University, co.uk. I wrote my dissertation on from which I Graduated in 2013. I then Search Engine Optimisation in my embarked upon the Legal Practice final year at Coventry University. Course with Masters qualification in Luke Stanford Law. Whilst undertaking the course I Hannah Baker History and Politics (2013) secured a training contract at Band Occupational Therapy (2012) My University degree did not Hatton Button LLP, based on Warwick neccessarily help me to get a job, In my final year (2012), I relocated Road in Coventry city centre. I am now but my experience whilst at uni to Exeter, Devon for a fresh a Trainee Solicitor in the Corporate/ certainly did, as I became the person start following a traumatic year. I Commercial Department and I will be I am today. completed my dissertation whilst fully qualified next year. working part-time in a rehabilitation unit. I have now graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Occupational Prabhsimrat Sagoo Therapy, am working full time as an Biomedical Science (2012) Occupational Therapist in A&E, living I am currently living in Melbourne, with my boyfriend (whom I met in Australia. I had been offered 3 Toxicology Exeter) and loving life! jobs in Birmingham, however I thought coming to Australia would broaden my horizons and job opportunities. I am currently working as a Microbiology Analyst in a Food Testing Company. I will hopefully be moving into the pathology department. I’m still looking for toxicology jobs and may be moving to Sydney in the future.

evolve 31 evolve Giving Back Generous alumni donate over £70,000 to student projects

om Clift says his University he was keen to give something back. students opportunities to progress years were the best time of “Knowing that my donation is their career with funds for equipment his life. The 2001 Leisure helping current students to have or work placements, support for T Management graduate is a similar experience, I continue to Sports and Societies and donations so impressed with the opportunities support the Institution I am proud towards our project in India that he was given here at Coventry that to be part of,” added Tom who now supports disadvantaged children he wants future students to have regularly donates to the University. and gives students international the same. Tom was just one of more than placements. “Coventry University helped 1,300 alumni who spoke to a But the aim of the annual me to develop invaluable skills current student when our student campaign isn’t just about raising that continue to benefit me calling team took to the phones in money – it also acts as a way for us professionally,” said Tom, who is now November last year. And Tom was to update alumni on the Institution’s the Engage! Programme Manager not alone in his desire to get involved progress and to find out more about for the Coventry Sports Foundation. as the ‘telethon’ raised about 100 what they are doing now. “The University will always hold a placement offers to current students Student callers such as James special place in my heart.” and more than £70,000, which will Sheehan, who is in his second year When a student called Tom benefit four major projects. These studying Biomedical Science, spent during our annual telethon to ask for include a Student Hardship Fund, time phoning graduates and sharing support for key University projects, The Chancellor’s Fund, which gives explained James who even picked

32 evolve The Student Calling Team

up some career advice for his next steps in medicine from a number of I spoke to one graduate who had graduates. “At first, I was nervous making the calls as you didn’t know received help from the Hardship Fund what to expect from the person on the other end. But people were and so was eager to give back. generally open to student needs in the current climate.” In some cases alumni have offered who was one of the telethon callers. proud of Coventry. “We’re always so placement opportunities for students “When I was speaking to people, I grateful for the support our alumni in their workplace or volunteered realised how much the University can show the University. But even if their time to be a mentor. For the help in the long term. That graduate people cannot offer support or give student callers, it can be inspiring told me that without the support a donation, the fact that they spend to chat to someone about life after she would have dropped out and time talking to current students, and graduation and for alumni, the wouldn’t be where she is today. in some cases offering career advice, call can often act as a great time It was nice speaking to people is invaluable to our callers. Thank you for reminiscing. who have been able to achieve to everyone who donated, offered a “I spoke to one graduate who what they wanted to.” placement or their time, or just had had received help from the Hardship The annual telethon started in a chat – we loved talking to you!” Fund and so was eager to give back. 2006 and every year about 6,000 A mum of two young children, she alumni that will be called as part of had been studying and working full the campaign are notified in advance For more information, visit time when her washing machine so they have the chance to opt www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni- broke down. The fund replaced out. Dwayne Webb, the University’s telethon her machine and helped her during Annual Fund Supporter Relations a difficult time,” said third year Co-Ordinator, said the telethon Psychology student Emma Chappell always leaves everyone feeling very

evolve 33 We asked you for your favourite memory of your time at Coventry

James Young Applied Physics,1978

Priory Hall, J Block, watching all the last buses leave Pool Meadow at 11pm!

Nataliya Volkova Operational Communications, 2004 My favourite tutor was Joseph C. Attard (modules ‘Network Architecture’, ‘Wireless Access Paul Callister to Information Society’), brilliant, bright, competent and enthusiastic Sciences - Geography, lecturer. He has provided us with 1992 very valuable skills in the telecom field which I widely use in my current Sports and Societies - mostly Caving professional activity. Joe used to Society. Fun times. The society apply his own innovative teaching shut down in 2000, but Caving still methodology to make the education takes place periodically within the process more involving, exciting and the Students’ Union Mountaineering efficient for students. I’m extremely Club. grateful to him and to our other tutors. Glen Halley Al-Fayed ‘Alfie’ Amin Geography, 2000 Law, 2011 My favourite memory was Definitely the my graduation best 3 years ceremony in of my life! the Cathedral Grown into and having a a man at the great facility amazing Cov (William Uni. Thoroughly Morris building) to study in. I also enjoyed my enjoyed watching my football team work/play

Memories Tottenham Hotspur play against lifestyle. Massive big up to wolfpack evolve Coventry City at Highfield Road. and the legal geeks. Jazak Allah

34 evolve We asked you for your favourite memory of your time at Coventry

Verity Jane Rule Adult Nursing, 2012

The Cathedral as it’s so imposing and makes going to Paul Harrington the university Rehabilitation special. Engineering, 2012 Anca Voinea Climbing the cathedral tower. International Relations Ioana Maxim and Politics, 2011 Theatre and Professional I can’t say I have one favourite memory of Coventry. Studying at Practice, 2013 Coventry University was a wonderful Devising experience, in itself memorable. The theatre pieces lectures were intellectually stimulating in the Dome, and there was always something inside the Ellen happening on campus. Of great Terry Building. importance to me was also the fact that I was able to work part-time for the University, which made it easier for me to find a job after graduating.

Daudi Mugabi Information Technology, 2013

My absolute favourite Thomas Forges memory was Christopher Smith Engineering and the GLP trip across Europe Professional Management, 2012 to amazing countries like Development, 2012 My favourite memory of Coventry Belgium and Very well structured course which was graduation time in the cathedral. Germany. I also enjoyed the GLP allowed me to achieve a well Entering and walking into the Business talks and seminars offered. regarded accreditation whilst in full cathedral was a beautiful and proud time employment. moment.

evolve 35 Lecturer in Focus

As Director of Low Carbon Vehicle Programmes at our Faculty Research Centre for Transport, Bernard Porter has been at the forefront of getting the University and private sectors to work together to develop low-emission transport solutions. Now, he splits his time between the University and Microcab, a spin-out company from

evolve the University that develops low carbon vehicles.

What drew you to engineering? 9-5 hours, so the building is open until about 11pm at Q Aside from the family connection – my granddad night – and there are even areas they can get access to and dad were both engineers, although my father out of hours if they need some of the specialist computer A tried to talk me out of it – it’s the idea of designing equipment. things and making things. Engineering is about practical The building works really well but it is still evolving – work. No matter how much computers play a part – and which it should always be. The volume of students has they’re a huge part in industry now – eventually, they’re been the biggest difficulty. Almost as soon as we moved making something. into the building, it became too small. It’s not the case that all the technical work is done on a computer by a person who never gets his hands You’re now working part-time with the dirty. I recently went to see The Imitation Game – I’m an Q University and part-time with Microcab. admirer of Alan Turing. But one of the slightly unrealistic What are the plans for that? things about the film is the belief that a machine as A Microcab is a company that was created on the complicated as that would work first time. It would have back of work that the University was doing on low carbon taken a long time to get it working reliably. And that’s still transport and it’s still very much tied in with the University. fascinating to me – engineering really is 1% inspiration, I’ve been doing work with them for the last three 99% perspiration. or four years and it will be an interesting time to see if we can move it on. Microcab survives by having to You played a major role in the be innovative and at the leading edge and there is a Q development of the Engineering and challenge in staying in that position. It’s different to a Computing Building – how are you settling university research challenge – it has to have some kind A in to your new home? of commercial appeal and that’s quite tough against a lot I don’t think we’ve made the most of this building yet but of strong competition. some things – like the classrooms – have settled down really well. What are you most proud of about your Lecturers use plasma screens for their displays and Q time at the University? we’ve got clever software that can control everything in I started Formula Student here and it has been a room. We can switch from one student’s computer to A going for 15 years. It’s an engineering competition a plasma screen to show their work to the class and we where students have to design, build, test and race can make it a master computer so that it displays on all their own cars and it has been really successful. the others around the room. Our association with motor sports has been really strong. We worked hard to try and get all the facilities right. One of the courses that I started – and was really hands- We involved staff and students and we set up a few pilot on with at the start – was Motor Sports Engineering. rooms before we had the building so that staff could It attracted a large number of students and quite a few get used to it and try out the facilities and see how went to work in motor sports, including Formula One. they would have to adapt their lecture materials. A big But I am constantly meeting people who were students statement in the design of this building was that there over 20 years ago and have made good progress in would be a lot of computers, even around the drop-in their careers. I always feel a bit cautious about asking areas, because we had seen that it was an evolving part them if they found the course useful! But it’s a rewarding of student life. We also know that students don’t keep part of the job to feel that you have helped with someone’s career.

36 evolve evolve 37 Our survey said... GRADUATE VIEWS We received nearly 2,000 responses to our latest alumni survey, helping us to create the services that you want – here are some of the highlights

Nearly 80% of respondents said they were happy with the service they received from FOCUS. We know there’s still room for improvement and your views are helping the alumni team shape future plans. Here is some of the feedback we received with an update on where we’re heading…

“Coventry could improve its services by connecting alumni with industries and more attention on international students.” We have launched FOCUS groups that specialise in different industries and global locations. If you would like us to launch a networking group in your country or one that is dedicated to your area of work, please let us know and we will set it up. See the full list of groups currently available: www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni-groups

38 evolve Further study Services and support Flicking through the magazine causes some alumni to More than half of respondents were not aware of the be interested in returning to study – 16% of respondents benefits and discounts on offer to alumni – such as said the articles had made them consider coming back associate membership at the library, Sports Centre and to take another course. In a competitive jobs market, Students’ Union. The alumni office also offers support in extra qualifications and professional development can finding lost friends and organising events and reunions. boost your career and there are discounts available for And we provide careers and business advice too. returning alumni progressing from an undergraduate course to a Masters.

Find out more about the opportunities at www.coventry.ac.uk/graduation-and-beyond/further-study

“We need more services overseas - such as library

access – as I do not live in the UK.” We are in talks with the library about giving graduates access to journals online through the library network and will keep you posted on this development. We also host reunions and events in countries where our graduates are based, which can be great for networking.

“Stay in touch with us by email and social networks where problem solving ideas can be shared.” We have a presence on Linkedin and Facebook and both sites offer a great way to interact with graduates and discuss ideas. We also have dedicated Linkedin groups for specialist topics and are happy to set up one or more of these with you. You can also sign up to the FOCUS e-newsletter for regular updates.

3-IN-4 of respondents said... they would like the option of receiving evolve as a PDF via email. However, less than half suggested that a mobile version of the magazine was desirable. The alumni team are currently looking at the development and distribution of digital versions of current print media. A fifth of respondents keep evolve for longer than a week and 30% contact an old friend after reading the magazine. 78% respondents are... not aware that there is a dedicated FOCUS Facebook page! Facebook is a great resource to keep up to date with all the alumni developments and for interacting with old friends. Find us at www.facebook.com/covunialumni. More than half of respondents were also not connected to our FOCUS Linkedin group. 70% respondents find... that the FOCUS e-newsletter offers interesting content and 19% said that they would contact a friend as a result of reading it. If you do not receive the monthly e-newsletter, email [email protected] and we’ll sign you up. evolve 39 evolve Events Supporting the next generation at the Lanch in London 2015

arlier this year, over 130 our alumni to support our current Coventry University alumni students by delivering a guest joined staff and students at lecture through the Global Leaders E the House of Commons for Programme, and supporting our this year’s ‘Lanch in London’ event, students’ experience by donating to held in the Terrace Pavilion. the Chancellor’s Fund. The Lanch in London was Sir John also introduced HRH launched in 2012 as a networking Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Bin Talal group for our alumni who are Al-Saud (Oil and Gas Management in senior positions within their alumnus, 2013) who formally organisations and who are based or launched his scholarship programme HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Bin Talal Al-Saud have business interests in London. which provides five students from The group provides our alumni Arab League nations with a full with an opportunity to network with tuition fee scholarship to study fellow decision-makers from a wide a Postgraduate Degree at our variety of industry sectors, as well as London Campus. an opportunity to meet and reminisce Senior Development Manager with new and old friends about their Chris Smith commented: “The student days in Coventry. Lanch in London is just one of the The evening commenced with ways in which the University is able a welcome address from Deputy to support our alumni and add Vice-Chancellor Ian Dunn, who even further value to their Coventry provided an overview of the latest University experience. developments on campus and “This particular group provides shared with our alumni some of our most senior alumni with the the University’s plans for the future. opportunity to network socially and Coventry alumnus Simon Carter meet with other industry leaders (Executive Director of Marketing, who studied at ‘The Lanch’. Fujitsu UK & Ireland and Geography, “It also provides our alumni 1988) shared fond memories of with the opportunity to learn more his time at the Lanch and why he about how their University is gives back to the University through developing and how they may be delivering guest lectures and also able to support the next generation through his role as a Non-Executive through sharing their experiences or Director of the London Campus. providing graduate level employment The evening was concluded by opportunities or internships through Sir John Egan, Chancellor of their organisations.” Chris Smith Coventry University, who called on 40 evolve TWENTY YEARS LATER Business Whigfield and John Major made studying in the 90s unforgettable says Alex Condron (Stats & Economics, 1998) Boost

lumni entrepreneurs received a helping hand A with a special networking event to learn more about the Student Enterprise Fund (SEF). Over 40 alumni, staff from the Business School and Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship and current students gathered at the newly refurbished Business School reception. Information and advice was on hand for those with an interest in Statistics and Economics Class of 1998 starting up or expanding their own business and there were plenty of From left to right in the photo: Paolo LaBarbera, Ed Cope, Colin Deller, Darren Head, opportunities for networking. Matt Hunt, Steve Mount, Ian Ashman, Malcolm Rodrigues, James Coupel, Jonathan Ramsey, Helen Wooding (was Rowberry), Alex Condron, Carl Walker, Heather Goodwill Keynote speaker Sir John Egan (was Woods) and Paula Savage (nee Hurst). introduced the Student Enterprise Fund, which has been made ’m not sure any of us would have While some of us had seen each possible thanks to the generosity imagined walking into a Coventry other quite recently (we’re at the of our donors. He also showcased University building 20 years ago age where a few of us meet up with I some of the successful businesses and seeing a Harrier Jump Jet, our caravans and motorhomes), that the Fund has been able to flight simulators and a wind tunnel! there were others we hadn’t seen support in the critical start-up in more than 18 years. Back in 1994, when Whigfield phase since the project’s inception. topped the charts with Saturday After lunch at the Ramada Hotel Acting Executive Dean Jeff Clowes Night and John Major was Prime in Coventry, we enjoyed a tour of discussed the latest developments Minister, we weren’t even using the the new Campus to see how much within the Business School, in Internet. In fact only 0.5% of the the University has changed over particular the current endeavour to UK population had access to it. the years. We spent the rest of our achieve a European Foundation for iPads and iPhones were unheard time visiting some of the old pubs Management Development (EFMD) of and the National Lottery had before heading to Spon Street for EPAS accreditation for two of the only just begun. dinner and on to JJ’s nightclub biggest courses, the BA Business One thing that hasn’t changed for more drinks and dancing. All Management and the though, is the new intake of accompanied, of course, with MSc International Business. stories from the old days. Freshers every September. My “Events such as these are friends and me were among It was great to catch up and we important for the Business School that crowd in 1994 – arriving at look forward to the next gathering as it keeps our alumni engaged with Coventry University fresh faced – scarily for the first of the 40th the latest news from their alma mater and ready to start our degrees birthday celebrations! and the Faculty,” said Jeff. “They also in Statistics & Economics and show how we can still support alumni Business Decisions Methods. If you would like to arrange to achieve their full potential years Skip forward 20 years, 14 a reunion, please contact after they have graduated.” weddings and 20 children later – the Development and and 15 of those Freshers met up Alumni Relations Office at again for our 20th anniversary [email protected] last September. evolve 41 Linguae Mundi >>>> Programme From Spring 2016, Linguae Mundi will have 18 languages on offer for alumni, staff and students. Led by native speakers trained in language provision.

he Linguae Mundi programme noted a The courses are focused on developing significant growth in the number of students understanding and usage of oral language and are and staff registered for the language courses taught on campus at Coventry University once a week T since its inception in 2010. Since then, from 6-8pm. the programme has rapidly expanded. This autumn, The Linguae Mundi programme has also brought in Linguae Mundi has eight exciting languages on offer: Online International Learning (OIL) with its languages. Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Activities involve interactive discussions on variety of Spanish, and Conversational English. Furthermore, intercultural topics and enable virtual language practice Linguae Mundi also provides a valuable opportunity to with native language speakers. Our OIL projects are gain an internationally recognised qualification in French, designed to immerse culture into foreign language Mandarin, Italian, Spanish and German. Participants teaching and provide learners with an opportunity to will be given the chance to have their language skills practice their conversational skills acquired during their accredited by the Assessment and Qualifications language classes. Alliance (AQA) which enables them to gain a Foundation Each language course costs £75 for 13 weeks. Certificate of Secondary Education (FCSE). In addition If you would like an additional language to add to to that, learners who attend at least 70% of classes or your CV or simply would like to experience the thrill of more are provided with a Certificate of Achievement learning a brand new language, then Linguae Mundi is from Linguae Mundi. the perfect programme for you. The lessons are tailor made and designed to provide linguistic preparation for staff, graduates and students undertaking placements abroad. Should you have any questions or queries relating to our programme, please contact us on 02476 15 2056/2125 or alternatively, email us at [email protected]. >yourbenefits Make the most of your FOCUS membership by attending Programme events, getting discounts and entering exclusive competitions. Visit www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni for more Events To register or for more information Discounts on any of the events, email Take advantage of your on-campus [email protected] FOCUS member benefits! Visit www.coventry.ac.uk/alumni October to find out more! 17 October Undergraduate Open Day University offers

Place: Coventry University www.coventry.ac.uk/study-at-coventry/open-days/undergraduate/

• Discounted library membership November

7 November Postgraduate Open Day

Place: Coventry University www.coventry.ac.uk/study-at-coventry/open-days/postgraduate-open-days/

16-20 November Graduation Week • Careers advice and graduate • Discounted Sports Centre vacancies membership Place: Coventry University

Competition Reminisce about your student days with a Coventry University goody bag! The goody bag is filled with a selection of Coventry memorabilia and could be yours to keep if you win our competition!

To be in with a chance of winning just unscramble the name of this Coventry born poet and novelist: HIKRILL NAPPI

Please send your answer for this competition to [email protected] or post to Evolve Competition, Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO), Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB by the closing date of 1st December 2015 Terms and conditions No cash alternative will be offered. The editor’s choice is final. KEEP IN TOUCH! evolve

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