www.york.ac.uk The University of York Alumni Magazine 2011 Autumn/Winter The next generation York Graduates York Anthony Horowitz

Award-winning author Guest Editor

Vital connections: making the most of alumni networks Find a voice: an interview with alumna and author Linda Grant Surround sound: new system aids hearing test News in brief highlights from 2010/11

November n York was named University of the Year 2010 in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards for its drive to combine academic excellence with social inclusion, and its record in scientific discovery.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Cantor with Lord Burns, Chairman of Santander Universities which sponsor the prestigious THE award

The CLL team celebrates 25 years

n University of York’s Centre for n The Ron Cooke Hub, York’s Lifelong Learning celebrated its stunning new building on 25th anniversary. During its 25 Heslington East, designed years, the Centre has helped more to encourage innovation than 15,000 citizens of York and and research collaborations, the surrounding area. opened for business.

December January n York announced a major cultural programme with the creation of n The University of York’s The Jiangning Foundation, to facilitate research, teaching and other links Post‑war Reconstruction and between Chinese and British cultural institutions and universities. Development Unit (PRDU), in n The University won a Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) award partnership with the Institute for outstanding achievement in planning for the expansion on for International Education (IIE) Heslington East. based in Washington DC, hosted a major international conference on the reconstruction of Higher Education in Iraq. n The Centre for Excellence in the Teaching and Learning of Enterprise (CETLE), which aims to help create the next generation of successful young entrepreneurs, moved to its new home in the Ron Cooke Hub at

The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University the heart of Heslington East. The Law and Management School on Heslington East February April n Scientists at the University’s n Music by two York alumni featured Department of Health Sciences in the wedding of Prince William and were awarded over £3m to Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey. continue a groundbreaking Paul Mealor’s (Music, Alcuin, 1997) latest research project which is work, Ubi caritas was performed during helping cancer patients in the ceremony and, Duncan Stubbs Yorkshire and across the UK. (Music, Alcuin, 1982), who is now principal n The University won Wellcome director of music for RAF Music Services, Trust funding for a new inter- Paul Mealor conducted the Central Band of the RAF. disciplinary PhD programme that will offer novel approaches to research into infectious diseases. May March n The Annual Alumni Reunion was attended by over 150 alumni across weekend. Read more about this event on page 14. n War of the Roses: the Carter- James trophy returned to York as this year’s tournament resulted in victory with an overwhelming win of 176.5 points to York. n Heslington East won a 2011 Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Award for architectural excellence.

June n A team of scientists from during excavations on the the University of York were University’s campus. commissioned to examine n York hosted a new National the role biodiversity plays in Deviancy Conference entitled the ecosystems provided by ‘Critical Perspectives on Crime, Britain’s landscapes. Deviance, Disorder and Social Harm’ 43 years after the University was the venue for the world’s first n The York Festival of Ideas was conference to explore the nature launched. Read more about this of deviancy. on page 48. n The York Annual Fund telephone n University of York Archaeology appeal raises over £68,000 thanks students unearthed a rare to generous support from alumni. Bronze Age cremation urn Read more on page 36.

July n The Mother and Infant Research Unit (MIRU) based in the n YorkSpace, our University’s Department of online community Health Sciences launches a for alumni and £1m collaborative programme friends launches aimed at encouraging improved to the Class of nutrition for mothers and infants. 2011. Read more n Researchers in the Stockholm on page 20. Environment Institute (SEI) at the University develop a new approach to help households reduce their carbon footprint. Contents

York welcomes… A campus for the 21st century

8  10  Back on campus York graduates – the next generation  14  22 Surround sound Continuing the work of a medical pioneer 28  30  Finding a voice Media moguls

 44  50 Conserving Sport at York the future

54  60 

Front cover Recognise anyone? Left to right – Daniel Gilks, Annelies Vredeveldt, Helen Fall, Amit Sinha, Leo Plunkett, Alex Houlton, Dominka Gruszka, Timur Tatlioglu, Matthew Freckleton, Heba Khalil, Primrose Lovett and Claire Wood.

Cover credit: Ian Martindale – www.ianmartindale.co.uk. Welcome to grapevine

t is my pleasure to mark the academic year 2011/12 by sending you your latest Iissue of grapevine. grapevine is a window onto the life of the University of York – the place where you spent some of the most important years of your life. But once you have been a York student, you have become part of an extended family. You have joined a worldwide continuing community. York is your university for life. I hope that within the pages of this latest issue you will find stories which will inspire you to continue to play a role at the University, to get back in touch, and to with the ability to benefit from an with alumna and internationally take part in one of the many events education at the University of York will renowned author Linda Grant coming up over the course of the year. be able to do so, independent of their (English with Educational Studies, Right now on campus we are financial circumstances. Derwent, 1975) is also testament to poised to welcome a new intake of At the same time as coping with the quality of our graduates (page 44). undergraduate and postgraduate major changes in government financial And we are of course grateful to students. It is vital from the moment support for undergraduate students, alumnus Anthony Horowitz (English, they get here that they know that the we are also faced with substantial Vanburgh, 1977) for being the Guest education they receive will not only cuts in research funding. Yet we need Editor in this issue. allow them to flourish in their chosen to ensure that our research remains Colleagues are breaking new careers, but will also provide the tools cutting edge, and of benefit to wider ground across all areas of teaching and they need for the rest of their lives. No society. I am proud to say that my research every day, so don’t just rely matter when you graduated from York colleagues are rising tremendously on grapevine for your latest news. we believe you never really leave us. well to all these challenges. Please sign up for our regular email We want our newest arrivals, like grapevine can only provide a bulletins by registering your email and all our students, graduates and alumni, brief glimpse into our innovative, contact details at www.YorkSpace.net. to know that one of the best things inclusive and highly successful We are committed to including we offer is membership of a vibrant community. I urge you to come and you in the life of the University of community and international network. re-visit York, and see for yourself. York, now and always. Do please stay Never more than now has the support You might like to attend the Festival in touch and let us know if there is Welcome to grapevine of the University of York community of Ideas, which was launched this anything we can do to add to and been of such significance. summer in partnership with the City improve your experience of being There are enormous challenges of York, (page 48). Or perhaps you will a member of our extended family. in higher education. With increased want to seek out help with your career Wishing you an enjoyable and fees, it is essential that we maintain development through the Professional fulfilling year. the aspirations of young people, Networks. There is always a good particularly those from disadvantaged reason to stay connected with us. backgrounds, to seek out a university Our feature article this issue education. A huge part of this is focuses on the next generation of providing funding to help every graduates and is truly inspiring. It gives bright and talented student in need of you a sense of the calibre of students financial support. We are committed we have the good fortune to graduate Brian Cantor to assuring that every student each year. Our exclusive interview Vice-Chancellor 1 Guest Editor

his issue of grapevine And I’m glad to say I do still come here times, I would imagine that graduates reminds me what a brilliant quite often. As Vice-Chancellor Brian have to consider every resource. university York is – even Cantor writes on the preceding page: Of course, one thing new graduates Tbetter, in fact, than it was when “No matter when you graduated from have at York which I didn’t is the fairly York, we believe you never leave us,” major debt of which many newer I came here to study English and this is certainly true in my case. alumni will be saddled and it’s frankly Literature and Art History Receiving a doctorate from the shameful that my generation should be (quite a long time ago). I can’t University in 2010 was as unexpected so mean in bequeathing the privileges walk across the campus and as it was agreeable and reminded me – grant-supported education – that it pass buildings like the Berrick of the long journey which, in many enjoyed itself. £9,000 a year to study at Saul Building which houses the respects, I began here. York? The best that can be said is that It’s interesting that York now it’s probably good value for money… Humanities Research Centre or, has its own social networking site – bear in mind that the University has of course, the wondrous new, YorkSpace. “Social networks are the spent £250m in the past two years £24m media complex (the new career fairs,” we’re told (page alone improving facilities. Department of Theatre, Film 17) and although I doubt that Twitter And yet I agree whole-heartedly and Television) without a and Facebook are trembling in their with Chancellor Greg Dyke (page 34) sense of something quite boots, this is certainly an initiative to who stresses the need to maintain the close to resentment. be welcomed. Never underestimate University’s ‘inclusive ethos’… it would the value of the York connection. It’s be nothing short of a disaster if students a strong link and one that I have used from less well-off backgrounds felt occasionally – and in these troubled they were being forced out of higher education. The Achieving Excellence Bursary is a strong and simple idea and I really hope successful York alumni will support it. There can’t be many better ways to spend £23 a month and once this issue has been printed, I’ll certainly be tearing out and returning the form on page 37. Wherever you look, you’ll find York students and former students shaping the way we will live tomorrow and onwards – whether they’re helping to find a cure for cancer, building Crossrail, running the BBC, analysing the human face, rebuilding lives in the Middle East, or writing best-selling children’s books (I’m referring, of course, to Nick Arnold, author of the excellent Horrible Science series… he is interviewed on page 58) tweaking the legal system, preserving our heritage, or even persuading the world to drink pistachio-flavoured cappuccino. All these activities are described somewhere in these pages. This magazine reflects exhaustively – and even exhaustingly – the worldwide influence of the University of York. I’m more than happy to be part of it.

The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University Anthony Horowitz

2 Guest Editor University news

University committed to quality and inclusiveness

The University of York has announced that it will set tuition fees at £9,000 a year for new full-time home and EU undergraduate students from October 2012. The University is recognised as the most socially inclusive of the UK’s leading higher education institutions and is committed to continuing to attract a diverse mix of students. In order to ensure students from lower income families are not deterred from applying, plans have been approved by the Office for Fair Access (OFFA) to provide a package of reductions and financial support. The University will invest in five main areas: • Financial support for students • Expanding our already successful widening participation and access activities • Enhancing the quality of the teaching experience • Improving the quality of the Ron Cooke Hub wider student experience opens for business • Providing academic and other forms of support to aid success and retention. The superb Ron Cooke Hub, which sits at the heart of the University’s In addition to National Scholarships, £750m campus expansion at Heslington East, was officially opened in the University will offer a range of July by Sir Alan Langlands, Chief Executive of the Higher Education scholarships, waivers and bursaries. Funding Council for England (HEFCE). First‑year students with scholarships The £20m Ron Cooke Hub is a flagship conceptual building, which will receive £4,500 in support, while supports start-up businesses and inter-disciplinary research centres, other first‑year students from families as well as creating social and study space for students. with an income of less than £25,000 will Since November 2010, over 500 businesses have made use of its receive support worth £3,000. Hardship spaces and facilities. Grahame Brown, Business Manager of the Ron

funds for students will also be increased. Cooke Hub, said: “The outstanding building provides some of the most University news These will be supplemented by non- exciting and flexible space in the UK for new businesses to establish and repayable Government grants for students grow, and for external groups to utilise for their high impact meetings from low-income backgrounds as well as and events. The space brings incredible opportunities to collaborate Government loans to cover living expenses. with like-minded businesses, organisations and world-leading research York’s Chancellor, Greg Dyke, will also lead specialists, adding value well above the normal expectations.” a public fundraising campaign to encourage The opening event featured the chance to participate in interactive York alumni to enhance the University’s tours of the innovative spaces in the Ron Cooke Hub, including scholarships and bursaries (read more about the unique 3Sixty audio-visual Immersive Demonstration Space. 3 this campaign on page 34). For more information and details visit www.york.ac.uk/hub. University news

Award recognises excellence of breastfeeding education at York

The University of York’s Department of Health Sciences has received the Credit: BBC internationally recognised Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) Award for the high levels of education in breastfeeding provided York academic is a Radio 3 to students on its undergraduate midwifery programme. New Generation Thinker The Baby Friendly Initiative, set up by UNICEF and the World Health University of York lecturer, Dr Zoe Norridge (standing second from the Organisation, is a global programme left), has been named as one of ten winners of the BBC Radio 3 and the which provides a practical and Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) inaugural New Generation effective way for health services to Thinkers Scheme. improve the care provided for all The scheme received more than 1,000 applications from university mothers and babies. researchers who, after a six month selection process, were whittled down The Baby Friendly University to the final ten by a judging panel of Radio 3 producers and AHRC academics. Award recognises that an institution Zoe Norridge, who researches the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda, was selected has implemented best practice after a nationwide search for academics with the potential to turn their in breastfeeding training and has ideas into fascinating broadcasts. passed an external assessment by a The winning New Generation Thinkers were chosen from a group of 57 UNICEF, BFI panel. Students at York finalists who attended a series of day-long workshops at the BBC, exploring achieved 100 per cent during the the key to making scholarly research into good radio. Zoe Norridge, of York’s assessment process. Department of English and Related Literature, and her fellow New Generation “We are delighted that the Thinkers for 2011 will now work closely with dedicated mentors from the Department of Health Sciences at York production team of Radio 3’s arts and ideas programme Night Waves. has received this award,” said Sue Ashmore, Programme Director of the BFI, UNICEF. “Surveys show us that York acquires Ayckbourn most mothers want to breastfeed but don’t always get the support they need. archive for the nation Becoming Baby Friendly Accredited means that the Department of Health The archive of one of the country’s foremost contemporary English dramatists, Sciences is addressing this problem Sir Alan Ayckbourn, has been acquired by the University of York and will now be and aiming to ensure more mothers made accessible to the public for the first time. can successfully breastfeed their The archive – which contains thousands of items including original stage babies in future.” sketches, working manuscripts, plot diagrams and correspondence – will become part of the internationally important Samuel Storey Writing and Performance Collection at the University’s Borthwick Institute for Archives. The archive will also form a major teaching resource for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the Department of Theatre, Film and Television. It will provide a unique research resource, because of the completeness with which it documents one of the most outstanding theatrical careers of our time. The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University The £240,000 purchase has been made possible thanks to support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the Samuel Storey Charitable Trust, the MLA/V&A

4 Sue Ashmore presents a plaque to York staff Purchase Grant Fund and the Friends of the National Libraries. and students YORK NEWS York events GRAPEVINE ONLINE Grapevine YorkSpace Read the latest Register for Read this issue submissions Join our new website news from York at upcoming University online at www. Catch up with news for alumni and friends www.YorkSpace.net/ and alumni events YorkSpace.net/ from your fellow at www.YorkSpace.net newshome at www.YorkSpace. grapevine2011 alumni at www. net/events YorkSpace.net/onthegv

The QR codes featured here will link you to key York websites via your smartphone. Download one of the widely available barcode reader apps to scan the code with your phone.

In the news – media highlights n Professor David Howard from n The Financial Times, BBC News, n Professor Chris Thomas from the Department of Electronics the Daily Mail, Metro and a host the Department of Biology was demonstrated his work monitoring of international outlets including interviewed about the impact the unique sets of frequencies in the New York Times and the of climate change on insects on young choristers’ voices to BBC Straits Times featured research The World Tonight on BBC Radio 4. News and BBC Breakfast. Professor by scientists from the Department Chris Thomas’s defence of the UN’s Howard was also interviewed by of Biology at York, and Harvard Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, nine BBC local radio stations and University and the University which he led, was widely reported BBC Wales and BBC Scotland as of Illinois, that confirmed that in Scientific American, New York well as independent Transworld the African savanna elephant Times, Chicago Tribune and Radio UK about the research. and the smaller African forest China Daily among many others. elephant have been distinct n The Daily Mail, Daily Express, species for several million n The Guardian, Financial Times Daily Sport, Financial Times, CBS years. Lead researcher at York, and Public Service reported on News, Yahoo! and the History Professor Michi Hofreiter, was research led by Professor Maria News Network reported the new interviewed by ABC Australia, Goddard from the Department of research finding that an Iron Age the New Zealand Broadcasting Health Economics, which found man whose skull and brain was Corporation and the BBC World that the policy of turning ordinary unearthed during excavations Service about this study. NHS hospitals into free-standing at the University of York was the Foundation Trusts has made no victim of a gruesome ritual killing. n The Telegraph and the Mail on difference to their performance. Sunday quoted Professor Peter n BBC News and Radio New Zealand Spencer from the Department of n The New York Times reported reported on an international study, Economics on the devaluation of on a study by Dr Jenna Ward co-ordinated by the Stockholm the pound and the effect that this from York Management School, Environment Institute at the has had on household budgets. into the work of general University of York, which warns practitioner receptionists. that nitrogen pollution, resulting n The Daily Mail, The Guardian, from industry and agriculture, is Yahoo! News and Bionews quoted n BBC One’s The Politics Show putting wildlife in Europe at risk. Professor Thomas Baldwin from the featured an item on Yatterbox,

Department of Philosophy who co- a social media monitoring business University news n Scientific American, the authored a report recommending established by York alumni in Discovery Channel and a host new rules for supervising research the Ron Cooke Hub – read more of news websites reported on that involves humanising animals. about the alumnus who created a new study led by Dr Kathryn Yatterbox on page 22. Arnold from the Environment Department, demonstrating that n The University’s York Awad was animals have specific attributes celebrated in The Guardian for and personality traits. its valuable work in relation to 5 graduate employability. Honours and awards

York honours Top awards for York staff contribution to society n Professor Robin Millar, of the Adam Tuff won the ‘Space Zone’ Department of Education section of the competition, an and Professor Callum Roberts, initiative set up by the Wellcome A campaigner for women’s rights, of the Environment Department, Trust to help bring science to life a neuroscientist and broadcaster, have been named ‘most important for school pupils. an archaeologist, a playwright, a contemporary figures in British n Professor John Goodby of the pioneering physicist, a soprano singer science’ in the Eureka 100 list University’s Department of and celebrated early music specialist, (the monthly science magazine Chemistry, who specialises in as well as a charity fundraiser and a published by The Times). research into liquid crystals, has national newspaper editor have all n The Collaborative Computational been elected a Fellow of the Royal received honorary degrees from the Project Number 4 in Protein Society, one of the world’s top University of York over the last year Crystallography (CCP4) from scientific honours. for their contribution to society. the University of York have n Professor Jim Woodcock, of the been awarded The Rita and Department of Computer Science Dame Emma Kirkby John Cornforth Award, an and Professor Andy Marvin, of the annual honour from the Royal Department of Electronics, have Society of Chemistry (RSC) for been elected Fellows of the Royal their outstanding work as part Academy of Engineering Academy, of a UK-wide research team in representing the most eminent biological chemistry. names in the profession from the UK and overseas. n Professor Eleanor Dodson from Professor Colin Blakemore the University’s Department of Chemistry, has won the ninth Ewald Prize from the International Union of Crystallography for their work on structural crystallography.

Professor James Clark Professor Archie Howie, Dame Emma at work Kirkby and Penelope Worsley were all presented with the honorary degrees of Doctor of the University at the From left, Rageh Omaar, David Hickman January graduation, and Maryam Bibi, and executive producer David Dugan Professor Colin Blakemore FRS, Professor Dominic Powlesland, Trevor n David Hickman, a senior lecturer Griffiths and alumnus John Witherow in the Department of Theatre, (History, Alcuin, 1975) were among Film and Television, has won nine people who were awarded the prestigious Grierson award n Professor James Clark, who has led honorary doctorates at the University’s for Best Science Documentary, the green chemistry movement July graduation ceremonies. for his Channel 4 film Race and in Europe for the last 12 years, Professor Lord Parekh of Kingston Intelligence: Science’s Last has received the Royal Society of Upon Hull, a social scientist and Taboo. He received the award at Chemistry’s Environment Prize for political philosopher, journalist, a ceremony held at the British his outstanding contributions to economist and author Frances Film Institute, hosted by television green chemistry. Cairncross CBE, Professor Karl Friston presenter and documentary maker, n Dr Allen Warren, a senior lecturer FRS, an internationally recognised Sandi Toksvig. in the Department of History authority on brain imaging, and n A University of York postgraduate and founder of York Students in Professor Gregory Margulis, a researcher has scooped a top prize Schools, has been made an MBE in The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University world authority in a number of in the national science outreach the Queen’s Birthday Honours List areas of mathematics also received competition, ‘I’m a Scientist, Get in recognition for his services to

6 a honorary degree in July. me out of Here!’ Nuclear physicist higher education. that will have a profound impact on the way we work, live and play. He said: “With over 700,000 installs worldwide and 12 million photos Face to E ac F processed so far, we are introducing to What does your face say about you? the masses what machines are capable of doing today. We are actively working with partners to apply this technology to a number of markets, from intelligent ew technology capable of predicting a person’s age, gender cameras for consumers to automatic and ethnicity from an image of their face, could have a demographic measurement systems profound impact on the way we work, live and play. for enterprises.” N The technology works out That’s the belief of the American The new face description how numerical values applied to software company, Percipo Inc, technology, which allows computers facial features will vary, based on which is working on commercial to analyse faces in a similar way a mathematical model (conditional implementation of new face to humans, is built on methods density estimation), and classifier description technology developed by developed over the last six years boosting which systematically combines the University of York’s Department by Professor John Robinson and very approximate estimates to produce of Electronics. colleagues in the Department of accurate predictions. Founded in 2008 with a mission Electronics working in the Visual Development work is taking to make machines more human, Systems Laboratory. Not only can place in retail demographics where Percipo has worked with the York the technology produce accurate the technology will allow accurate team to develop its own face predictions of age and gender from estimation of customer demographic description technology and has built either a still or live video, but it can data. Companies in the UK currently three iPhone apps to demonstrate its even identify and track expressions spend more than £100 million capabilities: PhotoAge, PhotoGenic and such as a smile or frown. per year gathering data on their ChickOrDude. The apps are available Professor Robinson, Head of customers’ in-store activity, often for download from the iTunes App the Department of Electronics, told using a manual approach to convert store and allow people to browse grapevine: “We are excited to be this into demographic statistics. their iPhone or Facebook photos working with Percipo to take the This technology has the potential to estimating the age, attractiveness technology in directions we hadn’t automate this process. and masculinity/femininity of faces. imagined. The collaboration has The retail project is the result of three started with recreational phone apps, years’ work in the Department, part- and now we are looking towards a funded by the Yorkshire Concept Fund. broad range of applications including in the retail and security sectors.” Mehran Farimani, Percipo’s founder Face to face and Chief Executive Officer, believes More on the University of York’s that putting this technology in the Department of Electronics can hands of consumers is paving the be found at www.york.ac.uk/ way to its wide adoption within many electronics. products and markets. Ultimately his For more information on Percipio company believes that machines that Inc see www.percipo.com. can perceive will lead to applications 7 YORK WELCOMES… Many notable people come November to the University every year. As part of the University’s Science Engagement celebration, Professor Lord Robert Winston delivered a lecture on the Here is a selection of some purpose of public engagement. of our visitors in 2010/11.

October Nobel Prize Winner Professor Sir Harold Kroto delivered the Cantor Nanoscience Lecture at the University of York, entitled ‘Architecture in nanospace’ which focused on the ‘bottom up’ self- assembly of atomic and molecular structures Professor Sir Harold Kroto from the nanoscale. Professor Lord Robert Winston

DECEMBER JANUARY

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER FEBRUARY 2010

January Star of stage and screen, Siân Phillips, one of Britain’s best loved actresses gave a lecture on her work across theatre, film and television.

Simon Schama December Marking ten years since his landmark BBC TV series A History of Britain was broadcast, Simon Schama gave a lecture at a The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University conference organised by the University’s Institute for the Public Understanding of the Past (IPUP). 8 Siân Phillips July Alumna Caroline Thomson (History, 1975), Chief Operating Officer of the BBC officially opened the stunning flagship building housing the York Law School and the York Management School on Heslington East. Alumna Denise O’Donoghue (Politics, Vanbrugh, 1989), Managing Director of ITV Studios officially opened the new home of the Department of Theatre, Film and Television (TFTV).

Professor Lord Richard Layard March The author of the influential book, Happiness – Lessons from a New Science, Professor Lord (Richard) Layard gave the Joseph Rowntree Foundation Lecture at the University. Dr Graham Spittle CBE, Chief Technology Officer and Vice President, Software Group Europe, for IBM opened the new Department of Computer Science building on Heslington East.

Denise O’Donoghue

JUNE 2011

MARCH APRIL MAY JULY AUGUST

June British economist Robert Chote, Chair of the Office of Budget Responsibility, delivered a major

public lecture at the University. The great and the good on campus… Nobel Laureate, J M Coetzee, and fellow novelist John Banville (a winner of the Booker Prize) visited the University as part of the York Festival of Ideas, see page 48 for details. Leading international expert in the field of spintronic devices, Professor Hideo Ohno from Tohoku University, Sendai delivered a Robert Chote John Banville J M Coetzee lecture entitled “Magnetic Materials and Spintronics” as part of the Cantor science lecture series. Steve Bell, cartoonist for the Guardian, gave the James College annual lecture. 9 ver the last couple of and is due to finish in spring 2012. In the of Philosophy, Economics and Politics years, the University has meantime, the adjacent Harry Fairhurst moved into Philosophy’s former space. spent more than £250m Library has reopened, following a six- Summer 2011 also saw the Oexpanding and improving as part month reconfiguration of the former Department of Music expanding into Computer Science building. Sally Baldwin D block, with among of our continued investment in In parallel with these major other improvements, the addition of a 21st century campus. development projects, improvements 14 new practice rooms. and refurbishments have been A research group from Electronics Some of the highest profile projects taking place all over Heslington has moved to Genesis 6 on York Science have been on Heslington East, but we West, including a major upgrade in Park, and the new York Plasma Physics haven’t forgotten Heslington West, residential accommodation which Institute is currently being established as some exciting developments can started this summer at Halifax in Genesis 1 and 2. already be seen. and Derwent Colleges. Work has begun on the Department Just to give you a flavour, we With three departments and of Chemistry; the new £6.5m Dorothy opened the £11m Berrick Saul Goodricke College now based on Hodgkin 2 building is part of their building in August 2009, providing Heslington East, other departmental phased redevelopment. a focal point for humanities research moves and expansions have been The next phase of development and a home for the Institute for made possible. The Department of on campus includes upgrading sports Effective Education. The £3.8m Centre Mathematics was given a refit and the facilities on Heslington West; the for Immunology and Infection, a joint Alcuin Research Resources Centre was reconfiguration of YUSU, McQs and research centre of Biology and the Hull reconfigured to provide study space the Roger Kirk Centre; emerging plans York Medical School, opened in June for social science research students. for new buildings for Environment 2010. And let’s not forget the major In December 2010, Philosophy moved and Electronics; and expansion £20m refurbishment of the J B Morrell out of Derwent into the refurbished and refurbishment for many other Library which is making good progress Sally Baldwin A block, and the School academic and support services across the campus, as well as ongoing improvements to public, teaching, social and study spaces, roads, paths York continues to invest in student and the landscape on Heslington East. and public facilities. A campus for the 21st century The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University

York Sports Village, on schedule for opening Summer 2012 10 Building work on Heslington The new-look Students’ Union opening in October 2011 East has already begun on the new Langwith College and York Sports Village (including the swimming pool). The whole programme of developing a 21st century campus is part of our commitment to improving the student and staff experience so watch this space!

For more information on the new development visit www.york. ac.uk/campus-development/ student-experience.

The new Department of Chemistry Building “Shrewd financial planning, supported by grants from the Higher Education Funding Council for England’s strategic development fund and the European Regional Development Fund, and underpinned by the overall success of the University, has enabled this level of investment on Heslington East – one of the largest and most ambitious developments in higher education in the UK” Elizabeth Heaps, Pro‑Vice-Chancellor for Estates A campus for the 21st century

Refurbished student accommodation Artist’s impression of the new Langwith College on Heslington East A campus for the 21st century 11

Langwith College Entrance Viewed From the Western Entrance on The Pedestrian Ribbon Langwith College, University of York Illustrative Visualisations A healthier cup of coffee Scientists at York discover a new alternative to this popular drink

offee. It’s a drink that (Pistacia vera) – is sometimes dried, product, you can manipulate which inspires fierce loyalty in roasted and ground, and used as a ones appear by altering the roasting its devotees, and most of coffee substitute. The whole fruit time and temperature.” Cus can’t start our day without from the tree is used, including the The results, published in the journal nut kernel inside, the shell and the Food Chemistry, show that the most a cup of it. surrounding flesh. volatiles are produced after 20 minutes However, in today’s health-conscience Conventional fresh coffee beans, of roasting at 200 degrees Celsius. world, coffee’s high caffeine content picked in high-altitude tropical “Although the conventional coffee has meant for a long time that we regions, bear little resemblance to the bean and Pistacia terebinthus fruit have had a love/hate relationship coffee enjoyed by millions across the might be very different when raw, with this popular beverage. world. The familiar smell and taste of after roasting they have a remarkably Now a close relative of the coffee only appear after roasting. similar aroma,” says Dr Özel. “Pan pistachio nut could provide a healthy Roasting triggers the aroma due roasting produces furans, furanones, decaf alternative to coffee, according to the release of organic compounds benzene derivatives, pyrazines and to researchers from the Universities of that exist as vapours, called other volatiles typical of coffee aroma York and Gaziantep in Turkey. volatiles. Familiar volatiles include and flavour. This suggests that Pistacia Scientists found that when limonene, which smells of citrus, terebinthus might provide a viable roasted correctly Pistacia terebinthus and alpha-pinene which has a pine/ alternative for the coffee industry and offered a similar attractive aroma and turpentine scent. could be commercialised more broadly flavour to coffee – but without the Dr Özel from York and Dr Fahrettin as a coffee substitute.” undesirable effects. Gogus from Gaziantep investigated Research Fellow Dr Mustafa Özel, what makes Pistacia terebinthus from York’s Department of Chemistry, so like coffee, by looking at which commented: “There are lots of volatiles are released at various important anti-oxidants in Pistacia stages of roasting. terebinthus which are beneficial “Roasting time and roasting to health and, importantly, do not temperature affect the production contain caffeine.” of many volatile compounds,” In Dr Özel’s native Turkey, Pistacia explains Dr Özel. “As some particular terebinthus – a close relative of the compounds are mainly responsible for snack we know as the pistachio nut the characteristic aroma of the roasted Pistacia terebinthus

More information on the “Although the conventional coffee bean and Pistacia Department of Chemistry can The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University terebinthus fruit might be very different when raw, be found at www.york.ac.uk/ chemistry.

12 after roasting they have a remarkably similar aroma” Broken Sword, a game created by Charles Cecil Credit: Independent

is the computing power – the ZX81 had 1K of memory (Cecil points out that his 32GB iPhone has some 32 million times more). But he says the The games early game developers regarded this technical constraint as a challenge rather than an obstacle. “At that time programmers were revolution incredibly creative,” he says. “Games s video game development His company, Revolution, is behind were written by either one or two creative endeavour or the internationally successful people who did everything. You had technical exercise? Broken Sword series of games, but the ‘bedroom coder’ who would Igrapevine speaks to video the sophistication of modern games design a game, create the graphics, such as these is a far cry from the write the codes, create the music and games pioneer Charles Cecil. industry’s beginnings. then programme it. They’d come up In their 30 years of existence, He recalls, with misty-eyed with this funky idea and it was very computer games have undergone an nostalgia, the time when Sir Clive much their vision. extraordinary evolution with many big Sinclair produced his ZX80 computers “What is so exciting is that, in players monopolising the industry but, helping to kick-start an industry that many ways, we are returning to those ironically, the vaulting digital advances generates huge revenues. days and that’s the reason why the have enabled the gaming world to go Cecil muses,“It is extraordinary industry is so dynamic at the moment. back to its roots, according to video to think of the way the industry “The internet allows us to games pioneer Charles Cecil who is has developed over those 30 years communicate with and sell directly working with the University on a commercially, creatively and to our audience,” says Cecil who co- range of projects. certainly technically.” founded Game Republic, an alliance of Charles Cecil is convinced that An 18-year-old Cecil was game developers, and is on the board the opportunities provided by the introduced to the world of gaming by of Screen Yorkshire. “It’s incredibly internet mean that, in the world of a friend who asked him to write an liberating and it also means we can video games, being small once again adventure game for the Sinclair ZX81 react quickly to what people want. has its advantages. which at the time was at the cutting- It’s actually a much purer way of

Cecil is a key player in the industry edge of computer development. writing, marketing and selling games.” The games revolution and has developed a close relationship So, is video game development He believes that Revolution with the University, working creative endeavour or technical has been able to adapt as the with a number of departments, exercise? Cecil is in no doubt industry has evolved. including Theatre, Film and that it is both. “Larger publishers, which Television, Computer “What makes it traditionally dominated the industry, Science and Archaeology. unique is that it is all are increasingly running into trouble His involvement with about creativity but as they fail to adapt,” he says. the industry stretches also it’s about technical “The benefit of a small company like back to when video understanding,” he says. Revolution is we are nimble enough

game development What has changed to respond to changing audience 13 was in its infancy. since the formative years demand and market conditions.” Lunch in the Deaprtment of MUsic

Baroness Genista McIntosh hosts Alumni enjoying the 2011 Gala dinner the political debate Back on campus Alumni return to York for the 2011 Annual Alumni Reunion Weekend.

t was an exciting and busy time at the University in May as expansion (featured in the last issue hundreds of alumni were welcomed back on campus for the of grapevine). The short tours third Annual Alumni Weekend. concluded at the Department of Music, I where lunch was served and the The 2011 reunion was one of our best distracted people from College rivalry University Jazz Band performed. yet according to feedback, with alumni and the evening was enjoyed by all. Fierce political discussion took selecting from a range of activities Current students hosted tours of place on Saturday afternoon, as and unique events, both on campus the campus on Saturday morning, alumna Baroness Genista McIntosh and within the city. Highlights from including the new Heslington East (Philosophy and Sociology, Derwent, the weekend included the option of 1968) hosted a debate on the AV attending a spa afternoon, viewing referendum, the results of which musical performances from students, had been announced the previous going on a behind-the-scenes tour evening. The discussion, which started of York Minster, and the opportunity with questions from the audience, to explore the internationally- included Nicholas Watt (chief political acclaimed Neuroimaging Centre correspondent at The Guardian) based at York Science Park. and Steve Richards (chief political The weekend began with a pub commentator at The Independent) – quiz on the Friday evening, hosted who are both York alumni. The debate by York’s University Challenge finalist was hosted in the University’s new Andrew Clemo (History, Halifax) at the Students’ Union venue, the Courtyard, in Langwith College. The evening “I loved meeting the alumni and hearing all the proved to be an excellent ice‑breaker for all involved. It was good to see that stories they had about their time at York, like the passion our alumni showed as how one morning in the winter they found students is still going strong as there was some debate among alumni as a car parked in the middle of the lake!” to what year Alcuin College opened The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University (it was 1967 by the way!). An acoustic Student host Kieran Douglas set from guitarist and alumnus Gerry

14 Murphy (Politics, Alcuin, 1977) soon (Computer Science, Langwith) “Fantastic weekend, I’ve enjoyed it so much and made some great contacts professionally as well. We’re all looking forward to the next alumni weekend” Jane Sutton

(Chemistry, Alumnus and Alumni Engagement Langwith, 1986) Manager Nik Miller welcomes alumni The Gala dinner at Derwent College

theatre, housed in a £24m media complex on the Heslington East Join us campus. Steve Richards (History, Alcuin, 1981) commented: “It was Plans are already being made for the 2012 Alumni Weekend, which will fantastic to have such a timely debate take place from 15–17 June. The event is open to all, but we would be with fellow York graduates; the especially pleased to welcome alumni from the classes of 1992, 1987, 1982 political passion reminded me vividly and 1972, who are celebrating 20, 25, 30 and 40 years since their graduation. of my time on campus as a student.” The 2012 Alumni Weekend promises to be more entertaining than ever, with Joanne Kinder (Economics and Social a range of exclusive events and a number of renowned York graduates History, Alcuin, 1999) added, “The planning to attend. If you are interested to find out more, or you would like politics debate was the real highlight to help shape the weekend, please contact Nik Miller at [email protected] and we were spoilt to have this or call him on +44 (0) 1904 32 2097. We can also help put you in touch arranged exclusively for our weekend– with old friends, so that you can plan to attend as a group. Keep checking very interesting and entertaining.” www.YorkSpace.net/reunion for the latest details on the 2012 event. On Saturday evening, guests attended the alumni Gala Dinner Save the date – 2013 in Derwent College. The newly- We are building up to 2013 when the University commemorates its 50th renovated College looked great with anniversary. The anniversary year celebrations will feature a number of added help from alumnus John McLean events throughout the year, including a homecoming weekend. The 2013 (Information Processing, Derwent, provisional date is 21–23 June. If you would like to be involved in helping to 1998) and his event company Die Hard plan these celebrations, please contact Nik (details above). Productions. The evening featured a four-course dinner with regional produce, and guests had plenty of time to celebrate and relax. Hit band Soul 50@50: 50 people who made a difference Patrol kept guests on the dance floor until almost 2am. Rosemary Coutts In the 50 years of its existence, and in the years of planning before that, (English, Derwent, 1970) commented, thousands of people have helped make the University of York great. In the run “The dinner was excellent and the up to 2013 we would like to pay tribute to the huge variety of people whose band was great – we would love to time, talents and generosity played an important part in our University’s see them again. Everyone enjoyed development and achievement since 1963. This is your opportunity to

themselves hugely!” nominate someone who helped to make York the place it is today. Back on campus The weekend concluded with lunch Your nominee can be a current or former student or staff member, or in Heslington Hall, and there was just someone in the wider University community. They could have been here time for guests to exchange contact briefly or for a long time, way back in the 1960s or much more recently. details and say final farewells. Over Nominating somebody is quick and easy – simply visit the 50th 200 alumni attended the weekend, Anniversary website at www.york.ac.uk/50 and fill in the form. with all colleges represented and We will contact some of the nominees so that we can include their story graduating years ranging from 1969 on our 50@50 website; a number of them will also be featured in a special

to 2010. If you didn’t make it, why 50@50 exhibition during 2013. Go on, make your nomination now. 15 not join us for the 2012 event? Vital connections Making the most of alumni networks

Because it’s not what you know, but who you know that counts. The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 16 f you thought Facebook was for gossiping kids, LinkedIn for unemployed investment bankers and Twitter for breaking Isuper‑injunctions, think again. Social networks are the new career Harper, Director of the Business fairs, and the growing power of Leaders Network (BLN). alumni networking means the “Applications and opportunities university you left years ago might that can stem from this include just be more important to your recruitment, internships, business career today than ever before. development and investment,” As more and more of our life shifts he continued. on to the web, the art of networking Darren should know: fostering is following suit, with a host of global connections between people pays his platforms now available for users to bills. After graduating from York in sign up and start sharing experiences, 1998 with a degree in Biochemistry, he tips and ideas with each other. soon found that his passions lay away YorkSpace, the dedicated website from the test tubes and Petri dishes. for University of York alumni, provides “I realised that it wasn’t the science just that, and its Professional Network I was enjoying but the management Programme has been designed to process and the thrill of working in give former students the opportunity a fast growth company where you to help each other, and be helped in constantly need to innovate, but also return, across the world of work. implement processes and foundations With discussion boards for so the house doesn’t collapse around alumni to swap experiences, a you,” says Darren. space for job opportunities to be “I began to appreciate the value posted and for former students to of networks as they allowed me to promote their businesses or upload lever others’ expertise, contacts and their CVs, it’s more important than enthusiasm to deliver products and ever to get online. events that were meaningful, topical YorkSpace, which was launched and well regarded. to the Class of 2011 in July, will “The belief that trusted networks also provide a forum to organise are the key to business success planned activities such as events and inspired me to join a colleague to presentations and offer focus areas establish my current company.” for specific professions, as well as Today, the BLN (see their website facilitating informal contact between www.thebln.com) is a national alumni and friends. community of entrepreneurs, business “A professional network is only as leaders and institutional investors who useful as the people who engage with work together to build and nurture it, and contribute to it. If it has a clear growth businesses. purpose then it can be an incredibly Through peer networking, BLN powerful way of doing business. works to discover future leaders People look for connections to others and stimulate debate about the and alumni affiliation is a good starting development of key growth sectors point,” says York alumnus Darren in the UK, connecting corporates to V ital connections

“Applications and opportunities that can stem from this include recruitment, internships, business development and investment” 17 Darren Harper (Biochemistry, Derwent 1998) sources of innovation, entrepreneurs “A good network should not be 102 million registered users across to investors or partners and investors measured by just the number of over 200 countries, and is currently to high quality entrepreneurs. people connected to you, but how worth around $7 billion, after its share YorkSpace works on exactly many of them remember and rate price more than doubled when the the same principle, providing an you as a person.” company floated on the New York online space for alumni to offer Networking has moved on a Stock Exchange in May. career opportunities to current great deal from conferences where Staying in touch with those you students and other alumni, or to delegates would hurriedly rush around thought you had said goodbye to on simply learn from interacting with distributing as many business cards graduation day is big business. And it other former York students inside as possible and grabbing all those on makes sense that in your career you or outside their profession. offer, only to return home with a stack are most likely to trust or depend on For current students or recent of names and numbers without any those that were educated at the same graduates, the benefits of networking idea who they belonged to. institution as you. with other alumni or building contacts The world’s largest professional Research from the Harvard in their industry of choice are obvious, social network, LinkedIn, boasts Business Review found that with the added bonus of having a York investment bankers placed larger connection as a foundation. “A good network should financial bets on companies to which “Over many years of working with they were connected to through people involved in some of the UK’s not be measured by just alumni networks, trusting investments fastest growing companies I often find in companies run by people that they that they do business with people they the number of people went to university with. like and trust,” says Darren. connected to you, but And what’s more – the “Networking in its best form is researchers found that the fund about building relationships and how many of them managers performed significantly The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University working out if you like and/or respect remember and rate better on their investments in a person that you might end up ‘connected’ companies, by around

18 doing business with,” he adds. you as a person” 7.8 per cent a year. Online networks such as “Professional networking is so important because YorkSpace offer both a platform to stay in touch with those who if you have a skill you’ve got to let other people you lived, studied or partied with find out about it and compare notes with their while at university, and a medium to develop professionally with the own experiences. There is no better way of doing help and assistance of fellow alumni, this, and of making use of modern technology irrespective of when they graduated. “I use social networks to stay than by communicating through a well targeted in touch with friends from York, as many of my classmates now and well organised network site” live abroad, in the US, Australia and Japan. Steve Richards (History, Alcuin, 1981), Chief Political Commentator “Facebook I use to stay in touch at The Independent and television presenter with friends and family. LinkedIn I use to manage and build my professional network and Twitter is a great tool for promotion and research,” says Darren. Soon he’ll be using YorkSpace as Find out more: well to forge more connections with York Alumni Association offers many ways to connect with your fellow a university that can be as much of alumni. Visit www.YorkSpace.net for details. Make sure you check out a boost to your career now as it was our dedicated York Alumni Association video on www.YorkSpace.net/ when you graduated. Go on, join profnetworks, created by alumnus Nik Morris (History, James, 2006). YorkSpace to get connected.

Make connections – join a network

lumni of York are who benefit from networking with If you want to significantly boost members of a dynamic one another, will be keen to support your professional connections, and influential current students through informal we are looking for alumni and Acommunity, and now mentoring, talks on campus or friends who are keen to help by offering a profile of their early develop and sustain each of the thousands of graduates across career progress. networks – please get in touch. the world can take advantage The networks are free to access, To get connected to the of opportunities on offer and launch events are taking University’s Professional Networks, through the York Alumni place in London. Future events log onto www.YorkSpace.net, Association to discover new will be geographically spread, and where you can register, update professional connections. additional networks will be launched your contact details and discover from January 2012. new connections. The University of York Professional Networks are designed to make this easy – connecting alumni with one another, and with current students, in specific professional areas. From November 2011, the networks will feature high profile events, job opportunities, and online interaction through YorkSpace.net, V ital connections the new website dedicated to York alumni. The networks will help support recent graduates’ career progression, and offer senior alumni an opportunity to share their expertise, advice and connections. We also hope that, in turn, alumni 19 YorkSpace... make it your place

“The powerful combination of the Professional Networks and YorkSpace will provide alumni with new opportunities to boost their careers. We are focused on providing services for younger alumni, so that the University does not become irrelevant after graduation, and so that alumni are proud to maintain their connection with the University of York” Nik Miller, Alumni Engagement Manager The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 20 orkSpace is finally here. We’ve been talking about it for the last two issues of grapevine, and we’re delighted to announce that the site launched to the Class of 2011 at the July graduation with great success. Now we’re ready to introduce the site to the wider alumni community and we hope Yyou’ll join us online to access a range of new benefits, services and facilities, all tailored to you, our growing alumni community.

Connecting people, business, education and ideas…

Why join?

Through YorkSpace you can: n Update your personal and business n Take advantage of free email details, education and interests forwarding or ‘email for life’ n Submit your news to grapevine n Access dedicated York alumni n Access our alumni directory to discounts, including several offers re-connect with friends or to make from fellow alumni new contacts, search by subject, n Volunteer to get involved with the college or graduation year YAA by taking a leadership role in n View YAA city and country our groups and networks, or by groups as well as access our supporting current students. new Professional Networks View alumni authors by decade, n Opt into join a group or networks, browse a selection of alumni upload your CV, post a job, profiles and honorary graduates. start a discussion, email group n Find out more about giving to York members, view alumni profiles, and donate online. promote your business and access industry support n View the latest news and YorkSpace.net will continue to publications from the YAA add new features as it grows. and the University Go on, get connected, visit n Book online for alumni and www.YorkSpace.net today. University events YorkSpace … make it your place 21 York graduates the next generation atch out, there’s a new to embark on careers as diverse unique opportunities that have enabled generation of York as they are remarkable. them to flourish. graduates already well “The University seems keen to “The reputation of the Department, Won their way to success. prove its ability to compete with combined with the historic, architectural the top universities of the world,” and social qualities of the city, made the From diplomats and architects to says Daniel Gilks, a Physics student decision to study at York very easy,” human rights lawyers and Oscar- shortlisted for his excellent research says Alex Houlton. winning visual effects technicians, York work in the Department. Alex has just completed a PhD on is crafting some of the brightest and the “This desire to forge a reputation stone conservation of York Minster, best graduates set to excel across has a clear relevance for any young and has already secured a job as a sectors, industries and continents. student who needs to find their own heritage consultant working with grapevine asked the University’s place in the world.” nationwide architects Purcell Miller Tritton. academics to nominate their most It is graduates like Daniel who will “The Department of Archaeology is outstanding students and recent continue to put York on the international based at the King’s Manor in the centre The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University graduates, bursting with talent and education map. And all will leave wishing of York. This adds an extra dimension potential, for a special report on the the best to the University that they say to the student experience when the

22 trailblazing students who are about provided the academic stimulus and focus of study is heritage-based, as From left to right: Timur Tatlioglu, Simon Gammon, Dominka Gruszka, Helen Fall, Alex Houlton, Heba Khalil, Daniel Gilks, Claire Wood, Matthew Freckleton, Annelies Vredeveldt, Primrose Lovett, Amit Sinha and Leo Plunkett

the next generation York graduates: the next generation you are fully immersed in the history “My proudest moment of the city,” he says. “The atmosphere in the Department at York has been to was always very positive, and the fact graduate and leave that the postgraduates had a dedicated workroom was really conducive to a straight into a job. It is vibrant research culture. Doing a PhD immensely satisfying can be quite a solitary experience at times, but the community at King’s that something I have Manor certainly helped to counteract that feeling.” worked on is currently Alex is not alone in praising York’s flying in helicopters support network. The featured students were selected from across around the UK” the University, and are a great example Simon of what talent combined with high 23 Simon Gammon academic teaching can produce. was able to pick the role that was Primrose Lovett arrived at York right for me,” says Simon. after a stint travelling across the “It is immensely satisfying that Americas, learning Spanish and something I have worked on is determining her ambition to work on currently flying in helicopters around issues of international justice with a the UK,” he adds. focus on Latin America. She’d already Another York graduate about completed a BA at Cambridge, and to embark on a career with an saw York as offering a unique way industry leader is Computer Science into her chosen profession. student Amit Sinha, who will soon “I came across the Centre for take up a position as an analyst for Applied Human Rights and its new management consultancy Accenture. LLM programme in International “Studying at York, and being Human Rights Law and Practice. exposed to other opportunities, Its combination of the academic has given me an appreciation for and the practical, the small number the amount of dedicated work and of students, the field trip and the Amit Sinha planning that goes into building a innovative Human Rights Defender career,” he says. Programme that it runs all drew me “It was truly amazing to Amit is clear that while the world- to the course,” she explains. class teaching in the Department “A great learning experience see so many students of Computer Science was crucial to has also been the opportunity to trying to think in a securing his graduate job, his extra- reflect on the ethics, limitations and curricular responsibilities were a great implications of human rights which smarter way and to boost to his CV. I think will be incredibly valuable to know that I was a part As the head of IBM’s Students for a me in the future. So although I have Smarter Planet initiative at York, Amit the same ambitions as when I joined of something big” brought five senior IBM executives last year, the University has helped to the campus to speak to over 100 me narrow my interests and tailor Amit students last December. my skills accordingly.” “It was truly amazing to see so It certainly worked – Primrose many students trying to think in a will soon be joining the diplomatic “York’s reputation was already smarter way and to know that I was service’s branch of the Foreign well known to me, so I knew when a part of something big,” Amit says. Office’s Graduate Fast Stream. I started looking at universities that “Throughout my time at York, “I wanted a job focused in I wanted to apply,” says Electronics I have maintained this philosophy policy-making with an international student Simon Gammon. of ‘take all the opportunities dimension. This was the perfect “The real turning point was when available to you’.” opportunity,” she says. I came up to visit the University and For Annelies Vredeveldt, whose “If I stay with the Foreign Office look around the Department. The PhD research broke new ground in I would love to be working on Latin two things that struck me were that improving eyewitness statements and American issues, ideally posted York is a fantastic place to live and saw her speak to an audience of pan- abroad. Otherwise, I might consider study, and the excellent facilities European police chiefs, the big draw doing a PhD in human rights and in the Department of Electronics,” for studying at York was the brilliant international criminal justice.” Simon explains. academics that she had access to. Simon will soon begin work at “My main reason for choosing GE Aviation as a systems engineer, York was the fact that my PhD in a role similar to his year-long supervisors, Alan Baddeley and placement with the firm that formed Graham Hitch, were here. I wanted part of his degree. to conduct research on eyewitness “My proudest moment at York has memory, and Alan and Graham been being able to graduate and leave have a worldwide reputation for straight into a graduate job. Using their excellent research on memory, all the skills I had learned at York I so it is a great privilege for me to received more than one job offer and work with them,” she explains.

“My research can contribute to the general understanding of basic biological mechanisms, The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University

which in turn will improve human life” Dominka Gruszka 24 Dominka Heba also got involved “What really attracted me to with opportunities outside the studying music at York was the University’s academic life to impressive array of lecturers and advance her studies while at York. resident musicians who were part “The City of Sanctuary movement of the Department,” says Leo. in York along with the historical legacy “I came to do music purely of York as a place of safety, have because I had a passion for it and played a major role in shaping my wanted to learn more about it. understanding of grassroots human I never really considered it as a viable rights initiatives, especially those that career path, but over my three years target helping refugees and asylum at York that has changed a great seekers in York,” she explains. deal,” says Leo. “The City of Sanctuary public For those who witnessed meeting was an open public meeting Plunkett’s ‘Black Noise’ dissertation of the working group to make York performance, involving a film and into a ‘City of Sanctuary’ for refugees music presentation in the new Claire Wood and asylum seekers. It was such a Ron Cooke Hub’s demonstration proud moment because I felt at home, space on Heslington East, his “Earlier this year I I felt I was fighting for my city, and packed post‑graduation diary I felt I was working to bring human won’t be surprising. was offered the chance rights ‘home’.” He’ll travel to Peru after to spend three months Two weeks after he graduates, graduation to film documentaries for Physics student Daniel Gilks will be a conservation group, before playing in Japan working with setting off for a three-month research a number of festivals and following a group of researchers project at the National Institute for up work opportunities with the BBC Material Science (NIMS) in Tokyo, and US television channel HBO. before beginning a PhD in thin film “At the moment I just want to from York and NIMS” York graduates: the next generation physics back in York. explore different directions and if Claire “Earlier this year I was offered I could pursue all of them then that the chance to spend three months would be fantastic, but they are Heba Khalil, an Egyptian graduate in Japan working with a group of all very unpredictable paths so we of the American University in Cairo researchers from York and NIMS. will see,” says Leo. before heading to York for an LLM at The chance to work with these For Dominka, who began studying the Centre for Applied Human Rights, individuals and then follow that up for a PhD at the University after a is another alumna striding out into the with postgraduate study at York summer studentship attracted her to human rights sector. represents a once-in-a-lifetime the Department of Biology, her time “I do not have a clear idea yet, but opportunity I didn’t feel I could at York has focused her talents on a I will work in Human Rights in Egypt. afford to turn down,” he says. career that could well save the lives Perhaps in advocacy or in reporting, Leo Plunkett, who has just of other alumni. perhaps as a paralegal or researcher, completed a BA in Music, and “When I started my PhD I perhaps in a local NGO or international PhD students Dominka Gruszka didn’t have a strict plan for my NGO. The future is still unclear, but I and Helen Fall also owe their future future career but I did have an

know I will be working on Human Rights careers to the inspiration found ambition to become a scientist 25 in post-Revolution Egypt,” she says. while studying at York. or researcher,” she says. “Being part of the York Alumni “Now, being close to the end of my PhD, I feel quite confident about Association maintains that sense pursuing a career path as a researcher of belonging to a successful and and I have a pretty clear view of what my research objectives are and which progressive university wherever you are, direction I want to take them… York and ensures that a sound mechanism has definitely influenced and shaped my career plans and given me a solid is in place should you decide to get in platform on which to build a career in research,” says Dominka, who won the touch with former staff and peers” University’s K M Stott Prize in Biology. Tim “I am keen to work on important biological and biomedical problems – for example, how pathogenic bacteria infect and persist in the human body,” Dominka explains. “My research can contribute to the general understanding of basic biological mechanisms, which in turn will improve human life.” Helen, who will leave York to “The company was join her family’s firm in a business recommended by an development and strategy role, with a view to taking over full control of employee who was a the business in the near future, never imagined such a career before she former graduate within began her studies. “Having previously had a career in our department at the banking sector my objective was to complete a degree course and then York,” return to work in larger firms in either banking or other large industries near where I live,” she explains. “However, since I started at York other opportunities arose and I have decided to work within my family business.” “The interactions with local businesses which have occurred as part of my Management course have proved extremely useful, especially from a business networking perspective,” says Helen. And career-building experiences have not been restricted to the classrooms or the library, as two other sparkling graduates show. Claire Wood arrived at York as an English Literature undergraduate, and four years later she’s graduating with an MA in Nineteenth-Century Literature and Culture, with ambitions to pursue a career in academia. While at York, Claire was part of the Arts and Humanities Research Council-funded Sensory Stories project, which trained postgraduates to communicate their research to a wider audience through The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University sensory channels such as the use of public spaces, performances and

26 object‑based interaction. “I’m so proud to have led a project at future projects at the Paddington, that I believe has made a genuine Farringdon and Liverpool Street difference to how students think about stations in the capital. communicating their work and which “The company was recommended has opened a meaningful dialogue with by an employee who was a former audiences beyond the University. graduate within our Department at “I hope that Sensory Stories York,” says Timur. will continue to train future cohorts “It was a great example of of humanities researchers in networking as I had briefly worked communicating their work to the public with her on a small project at at large, giving them the confidence and Harewood House. The role seemed skills that will help to shape their own to be perfect as I was ready for the academic careers,” Claire adds. next stage of my career, beyond Closer to campus, Sociology my doctoral research, and I was graduate Matthew Freckleton also got looking for a position where I could started on his entrepreneurial career use my heritage expertise on a wide Matthew Freckleton while a student at York. range of projects.” “I didn’t come to York with any clear Timur recently became career objectives, so the University has a Research Associate at the “I hope to show other moulded me to an extent in deciding Department of Archaeology, allowing what career path I wanted to do and him to recommend the Department people that you can start thus have chosen,” he explains. as an important source of expertise with nothing and build Matthew was heavily involved in the in a wide range of subjects to his enterprise opportunities at York, first as current clients. and grow something an intern at the Centre for Excellence “One of the main advantages of truly unique” in Teaching and Learning for Enterprise studying at York is the large network (CETLE), and then as President of the of contacts that are available to Matthew York Entrepreneurs Society. He picked you… It was stressed from a very up the 2009 award for the Best Student early stage to take advantage of this Enterprise Society from the National position, and build up relationships passing on their recommendations Council of Graduate Entrepreneurs. both with the staff and our peers. to people who are looking to gain It’s no surprise that he’ll be continuing These contacts have been invaluable expertise in their particular fields. in that direction after graduating. to my career,” says Timur. “I will always recommend York “My first venture will be the building “It is networks such as these that very highly. It has genuinely been and development of Yatterbox as the can lead to collaborative opportunities a great place to spend the last single source of all political social media further down the line,” Alex agrees. three years and the course has information,” says Matthew. “Being part of the York Alumni opened my horizons up to so many Timur Tatlioglu, who has recently Association maintains that sense opportunities, as have the people concluded a PhD in Archaeology, of belonging to a successful and I have met here,” says Leo. has directly benefited from a good progressive university wherever “So I hope I am lucky enough relationship between former and you are, and ensures that a sound to succeed in some of my projects current students at University, and mechanism is in place should you so I can be in a position to give recognises the importance of a strong decide to get in touch with former advice and help to graduates of the alumni network. staff and peers.” future,”he continues. “[The University] helped me “It is really important to remember And for Matthew, providing York graduates: the next generation to gain the specialist knowledge who has helped you along the way inspiration by showing how the that I was aiming for, while also and where you have learnt the University of York can provide a expanding valuable experience within skills you use day in and day out,” fantastic career springboard is the heritage sector. In that sense, says Simon. “I have benefited from the key to getting the best out of there is no doubt that York has helped the strong industry connections students of the future. me to move closer to my career within the Department of Electronics. “I hope to show other people that objectives,” he explains. Hopefully I’ll be able to contribute to you can start with nothing and build Timur has worked as a Heritage this in the future.” and grow something truly unique.” Consultant for URS Scott Wilson, “I feel it should be an integral With graduates like these, we a multi-national engineering part of any alumnus agenda,” can rest assured that we have and environmental consultancy chips in Amit. some interesting alumni to watch specialising in infrastructure projects, “In my opinion, maintaining a out for in the future. for the past year. relationship outside your day-to-day He’s been heavily involved in work job broadens your network the Crossrail project, the new 118km and may yield opportunities that By Henry James Foy (English, urban railway being constructed can be unexpected.” Derwent, 2010) 27 across central London, and is looking Many hope to help York just by Surround

soundNew system aids hearing test

eading UK hospitals are the-art software produces a report using pioneering technology written in plain English, meaning developed by psychology clinicians no longer need to revert to Lresearchers at York. the laboratory to interpret test results. “One of the challenges of testing The Crescent of Sound allows hearing in children so young is to keep clinicians to test patients’ spatial their attention on the task,” explains hearing in a clinic rather than in a Professor Quentin Summerfield, laboratory setting. The apparatus one of the lead researchers on the adapts its tests to the ability of the Crescent project. “To solve this patient — so it can be used for both problem, we added display screens children and adults, to participants to the system which present videos with normal hearing, to users of and three-dimensional images. acoustic hearing aids, and to users of These engage children’s attention and Professor Quentin Summerfield with the semi‑circular set-up of speakers which deliver the cochlear implants which are now provide rewards when they respond different sounds from different directions to provided to young deaf children. accurately to the challenges presented test three-dimensional hearing Most importantly, the state-of- by the system.”

The Crescent of Sound consists of a semi-circular arc of nine loudspeakers, seven of which have an associated computer-controlled video display. The speakers deliver sounds from different directions to measure the patient’s localisation skills, and can present speech from one direction together with noise from a different direction to create signals of different clarity at the two ears. One of the main drivers for developing the Crescent has been a recent change in British healthcare policy. “Until recently, NHS guidance recommended that deaf children be given a single cochlear implant,” The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University says Professor Summerfield. “But these implants have proven

28 so successful in helping young Children as young as two years old happily interact with the Crescent of Sound children to learn language – which “These implants have know where to look to see who is is crucial so that children can attend talking, where to move to avoid mainstream schools, for instance proven successful in hazards and how to understand what’s – that newly updated guidance said to them in noisy environments recommends two implants for each helping young children such as schools. child, one in each ear.” to learn language – This change in policy means that The research at York was clinicians who provide implants to commissioned by Advanced Bionics, which is crucial so children must measure emerging a leading manufacturer of cochlear skills in spatial listening in young implants for hearing-impaired that they can attend deaf children. Until the Crescent children. As well as maximising the was developed, such tests often

mainstream schools” Surround sound impact of research by working directly had to be administered or interpreted with industry, the development of the in specialist laboratories, rather Crescent and locating it in hospitals bypass parts of the ear that are absent than in clinical settings. is now providing an infrastructure or damaged and instead stimulate the Production versions of the Crescent for further clinical research using hearing nerve directly with electrical of Sound are now being installed at Advanced Bionics’s implants. signals. Children who have been the Royal National Throat Nose and Ear Unlike acoustic hearing aids, which provided with two such implants, one Hospital, the Bradford Royal Infirmary, work simply by amplifying sound in each ear, can essentially learn to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Crosshouse 29 levels, cochlear implants actually ‘hear in three dimensions’ – so they Hospital and St Thomas’ Hospital. round 20% of cancers are attributable to infections and the two viruses responsible for causing researchers at York are working to identify these. The ultimate cancer of the cervix. The identification of aim, through public health education and behaviour change, other cancers with an infectious cause is, Ais to prevent such types of cancer. therefore, of importance for public health and cancer prevention. At York, the team’s goal is to identify Researchers in the Epidemiology and Denis Burkitt purchased a second-hand new cancers that may be caused by Genetics Unit in the Department of Ford Anglia and, together with two infections and to develop methods for Health Sciences are working to identify friends, embarked on an epic 10,000 preventing the tumours from occurring infectious causes of cancer in both mile journey around Africa, in an in the first place. Much of the work is adults and children, to better effort to characterise the geographic based on the observation that people characterise the infections and thereby distribution of this cancer. He with failing immune systems – such prevent those types of cancer. Dr Rob discovered that it occurs only where a as those infected with the human Newton and his colleagues at the unit particular type of malaria is common, immunodeficiency virus (HIV) – are not conduct studies in African countries leading him to speculate that the only prone to infections, but also develop where infectious disease is common underlying cause may be an infection certain cancers, which are themselves and where key contributions to cancer transmitted in the same way – that is, caused by underlying infectious or research have been made. by mosquitoes. Burkitt lymphoma, as immune factors. The identification of Cancer today remains a global health it is now known, was the first human cancers that occur more frequently than problem. The World Health Organisation tumour in which a virus was found to expected in those with HIV therefore estimates there are 12.7m new cancer be the cause. Indeed we now know – provides a useful way of distinguishing cases and 7.6m deaths from the disease thanks to work conducted at York and cancers that might have an infectious each year. It is a common disease elsewhere – that it is the combination cause. Since HIV is most common in across the world, with cancers of the of a common virus infection together Africa, the research is conducted in lung, breast and bowel being the most with malaria itself that leads to collaboration with colleagues in Uganda, frequently diagnosed. The causes of the development of the cancer. Malawi, Zambia and South Africa. about half of all cases of cancer are An incidental but interesting footnote A number of cancers have now been accounted for but there is much still to the story of Burkitt’s extraordinary found to be increased among people with to be discovered. journey across Africa in the late 1950s, HIV, and for most of them, an underlying Despite all we know about the is that he subsequently sold the car infectious cause has been identified – the damaging effects of smoking, tobacco for £150 and returned the money first step in preventing them. Of equal remains the most common cause of the to the MRC! concern, however, is that failing immune disease. However, second to tobacco Burkitt’s seminal discoveries led systems can also cause reactivation of as a cause of cancer are infections. eventually to US President Richard viruses in individuals who were infected This does not mean cancer is itself Nixon’s ‘declaration of war’ on long ago and lead to an increase in the ‘infectious’, but that some of the cancer, with his 1971 Cancer Act, in number of people most likely to transmit underlying causes are. This important which billions of dollars were spent infection to others. So, in addition to discovery was made over 50 years ago, in trying to identify infectious causes facilitating the development of cancer, in Africa, and today is the primary focus of malignancy. It wasn’t until 1980, HIV and other immune-suppressive of Rob Newton’s research at York. however, that the next cancer-causing infections, such as certain common The story began in 1958, when virus was discovered. Since then, others parasites, may also increase transmission Denis Burkitt – a surgeon working for have been identified. It is now known of many cancer-causing viruses the British Colonial Service in Uganda that about 20% of cancers (about two in the general population. This has – published a paper in the British million cases per year) are attributable important implications for cancer control Journal of Surgery. He described 38 to viral (15%), bacterial (5%) and in the future. cases of a previously unrecognised parasitic (0.1%) infections. The majority The ultimate aim is not only tumour affecting children. The cancer of these – 1.5 m cases per year – occur to prevent cancers caused by frequently presents with swellings in in the developing world where the these infections but also to identify the jaw, which can double in size over burden of infectious disease is greatest. new cancers with underlying a matter of days. Although unknown Dr Newton points out, “Importantly, infectious causes, to prevent the outside parts of sub-Saharan Africa such cancers are theoretically spread of infections and to improve and Papua New Guinea, this cancer has preventable by avoidance of infection population health, both nationally played a key role in our understanding via education and behaviour change, and internationally. Dr Rob Newton of how tumours develop and Burkitt’s then by early treatment, or through co‑authored Denis Burkitt’s last scientific description of it marked a turning point vaccination.” For example, there has paper which was published after his in the history of cancer research and been a safe and effective vaccine death in 1993. Sadly, they never met. clinical oncology. It was also one of the against the Hepatitis B virus – first cancers to be successfully treated responsible for causing about half of using combinations of drugs, now all cases of liver cancer worldwide – Visit www.york.ac.uk/ The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University standard therapy for many tumours. available for decades. Furthermore, healthsciences for more With a grant of just £250 from the 12-year- old girls are now routinely information

30 UK Medical Research Council (MRC), vaccinated in schools in the UK, against “Cancers are theoretically preventable by avoidance of infection via education and behaviour change then by early treatment of infection, or through vaccination” Dr Rob Newton

Continuing Working towards a better future the work of a medical pioneer With cancer still one of the world’s biggest York scientists are working to identify infection in order to address the actual cause. 31 Breaking the silence

cross the globe human have any professional training at all. rights defenders push the What they have in common is their boundaries of injustice belief that basic human rights must Aevery day. be protected, and their willingness to do something about it. Unsurprisingly, When we look at the tyrannical their work is often dangerous; many regimes, conflicts and uprisings are imprisoned, persecuted and killed around the world, one thing remains each year. Their courage is immense. constant. When politicians, the courts The Centre for Applied Human and the police cannot be relied on Rights (CAHR) at the University of to protect human rights, there are York believes that they are central always individuals who find they to the fight for justice and rights. cannot remain silent in the face of Each year the Centre invites a number injustice. They are called human of defenders who are at risk to come rights defenders. to York, in a fellowship scheme that is They may be lawyers, teachers, unique in an academic setting. Their doctors or journalists; they may not time in York offers respite from the

“Since I started working in human rights, ten years ago, this is the first time that I feel calm and safe, knowing nobody is going to hurt me or persecute me” The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University Diana, from Colombia, 2010 32 risks they face on a daily basis; it is also “It was a superb arbitrary detention and torture, a chance to reflect and look beyond indigenous rights, labour rights, the their own situation and understand experience to meet fight against corruption, and the the fight for human rights in a with people from rehabilitation of child soldiers. As a global context. Their testimony and group, they are very varied, but one knowledge have a powerful impact on different part of the thing unites them: their belief that students and the wider community. world and share the world could be a better place, and Since 2008, 17 men and women their determination to contribute what have been awarded Human Rights experiences. they can to this struggle. Fellowships at York’s CAHR, from Africa (Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Kenya, The programme is very Uganda, the Democratic Republic useful and… it has of Congo, Sudan), Latin America For more information visit (Colombia), Asia (China, Nepal, motivated and www.york.ac.uk/cahr. Afghanistan, Indonesia, Thailand, re‑energised us” To support the Human Rights Kyrgyzstan) and the Middle East (Iraq, Fellowship Programme contact the Occupied Palestinian Territories). Rhoda, from Sarah Sylvester via email at They work on issues as diverse as [email protected] women’s rights, the rights of people Sierra Leone, 2009 or call +44 (0)1904 32 4555. affected by HIV, the fight against

Saifora’s story

Describing how the fellowship influenced her work after her return to Afghanistan, one of the first CAHR Fellows writes: “I am a part of a team that established a civilian oversight committee to monitor how the police deal with gender-based violence (GBV) at police stations. This committee included Members of Parliament. As a result of its recommendations, 17 Family Response Units led by female police officers have been established. I also submitted a David’s story proposal to provide training to “I am the only openly gay man in them together, avoiding ‘name these female officers, which Uganda”, said David Kato with a and shame’,” he wrote after his was successful, so we offer certain wryness, taking up his return to Uganda. “Very different extensive training… to them. fellowship at CAHR in spring 2010. from those people who tried to We also run the first ever hotline His focus for the fellowship was on physically assault me at court!” for victims of violence, and we finding arguments that would he added. have a database of organisations persuade the Ugandan government He went to court to challenge working with GBV victims. to reject the Anti-Homosexuality a magazine report that printed his “While in York, I got the Bill, which required family members name and photo, along with others, chance to see the curriculum to report relatives to the authorities claiming they were dangerous for human rights education where they suspected homosexual to Ugandan youth and should Breaking the silence in schools. This has led me activity. He campaigned against the be killed. He and his colleague to work on developing a proposed death penalty for ‘repeat succeeded in their court case; the curriculum with the Ministry offenders’. David was especially court ruled that there was a right of Education. This has been keen on learning about principled to bodily integrity and to protection well received and now we negotiation techniques. “These against discrimination. have some funding to provide have helped not only me but my Three weeks after his court training to staff of the Ministry community to learn how to be victory, at the end of January of Education and to teachers.” patient with radicals and 2011, David was murdered in his

Saifora, from Afghanistan, 2008 fundamentalists, reasoning with own home. 33 student, which is where students on low incomes can often feel hardship Changing times for most. The bursaries will be offered over and above the package of financial support already pledged by York, and the addition of these bursaries will Higher Education ensure that our commitment to helping students afford a world-class education will never have been stronger. Greg Dyke leads support for future students “With your help we can do much more,” Greg Dyke tells us. “We want to keep our doors open to talent and we want to ensure that once here, there is reg Dyke is genuinely adequate support for those who may passionate about helping struggle to cope. the next generation of “I came to York in the days when Gstudents, and found time in his there were no fees – if there had been I doubt if I would have considered higher busy schedule of graduation education. I am passionate that the duties in July to explain why. brightest students with the most limited financial means should continue to “I hate the idea that many students will benefit from what York has to offer. be leaving with enormous debts, but “In particular, I really believe that that is where we are and I doubt if there former York students who had the will be any going back. What we all fear benefits of a free York education – the most from the new system is that people like me – now have a students from poorer backgrounds will responsibility to help those for whom be put off from going to university – the levels of debt may present a serious which for many would be a life- disincentive to carrying on to university. changing experience simply because I hope that alumni of York will join me they and their families believe they in helping to realise the potential of the can’t afford it. It would be terrible if next generation. Just imagine how many universities went back to being what lives we could transform if we managed they were before the likes of York were to raise £1m through this appeal. around – educational institutions only A gift of £23 a month for three years for kids from privileged backgrounds.” will help provide the equivalent of one York has already committed to a Achieving Excellence Bursary.” wide range of measures to maintain its inclusive ethos. In fact, York plans the highest percentage spend in the 1994 Group, and the sixth highest percentage Greg’s appeal is perfectly timed as this year the University announced that spend among its peer universities. it plans to set tuition fees at £9,000 a year, starting from October 2012. The Chancellor is keen to enable the This decision is based upon a number of factors, the most significant of University to do more. That’s why he’s which is the Government’s resolution to cut billions of pounds of direct putting his weight, and indeed his own funding to universities and instead redirect much of this via student loans financial support, behind the Achieving paid to universities when a student attends. A much higher proportion of Excellence Bursary Appeal and is asking the cost will therefore be met by the student. York alumni to help. The higher fee will compensate for reductions in centrally allocated “We want to be able to say to bright funding and maintain York’s high standards. Crucially, the increased student kids who are worried, along with their tuition fee will enable significant levels of support for students from less parents, that they might not be able advantaged backgrounds, as well as substantial investment in the student to cope financially: ‘If you have the experience more generally. potential, there are funds available at Our commitment to ensuring that able students are not deterred from York to help support you.” applying to York will be shown through a comprehensive package of The new Achieving Excellence financial support and other measures (see page 4). Our belief in excellence Bursaries will be worth approximately and inclusivity requires resources, and that is why the University’s £1,000 a year and targeted at those Chancellor, Greg Dyke, is leading a campaign to ensure equality of students in greatest need and for opportunity for the best and the brightest, regardless of circumstances. whom support is not available The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University Visit www.YorkSpace.net/bursaries for more information or use the elsewhere. Importantly, they will be donation form on page 37. awarded to support the living costs

34 associated with being a full-time Alumni help gives York students a leading edge

he generosity of alumni has funded ground-breaking projects production office with professional across the University this year. Growing support means that the standard computers and software. range broadened and the value of grants increased to £182,387. The magazines, The Zahir, Haus and TA committee composed of alumni from different decades and senior the Lemon Press, nurture the next generation of writers, journalists and staff is responsible for deciding which of the innovative proposals put editors, maintain York’s excellent forward by clubs, societies and departments will receive grants from reputation for student media, and the York Annual Fund. provide a creative comment on student life, university issues and For many alumni and current students and Related Literature. Contributors broader politics. the clubs and societies in which they to the 2010/11 edition of The Alumni can download The Looking participated define their York Looking Glass Anthology came from Glass Anthology as a free e-book or experience as much as their subject of departments as diverse as Physics and order a printed copy for £3.78 from study. When looking for the first job History. The Anthology showcases www.thelookingglass.org.uk. after graduation, responsibilities taken the best new poetry, drama and short on and skills developed in extra- fiction created by York students. curricular activities, such as Relatively small grants from Relatively small volunteering, make graduates stand the York Annual Fund make a big out in an increasingly competitive difference to the vibrant cultural scene grants from the York employment market. on campus and in the city. Thanks to Community involvement has generous alumni and friends of the Annual Fund make always been a key part of music at University, the Fund was able to award a big difference to York and alumni support has increased £330 to The Looking Glass Anthology the reach of this work. The Music and £400 to culture magazine The the vibrant, cultural Education Group (MEG) received a Zahir to help with printing costs in grant of £458 from the York Annual 2011. The Zahir was one of three scene on campus Fund to buy ukuleles for workshops in student magazines to benefit from a York primary schools. The members grant of £2,000 to update their shared and in the city of MEG were delighted to receive the award for Overall Project of the Year at the 2010/11 YUSU awards. This student-run scheme is very well received by pupils and teachers, offering an exciting range of workshops at York schools, many of which do not employ a specialist music teacher. MEG is We’d like to talk you… also an opportunity for students to contribute to the local community and gain experience in teaching. Opportunities for students to develop skills in writing and editing are not limited to

York’s highly-regarded 35 Department of English Giving to York It’s good to talk…

elethons are now a ask for your support for our Achieving telethon. Ruth said, “James was very regular fixture of the Excellence bursary appeal. friendly and pleasant. He explained University calendar. In Alumni and student callers often clearly what the call was for and TNovember and June enthusiastic find they have much in common. what options there were that my Students enjoy hearing stories of donation could go towards. It was his student callers will staff the University life in the past, and alumni friendly manner that persuaded me to phones, speaking to thousands are keen to understand what it’s like donate, it was such a pleasant change of alumni across the world. to study at York today. from the usual unsolicited calls from Alumna Ruth Soames other sources.” The students are well placed to update (Archaeology, Alcuin, 1998) spoke Caller Lauren Cowling (Psychology, you on recent developments at the to current student James Masters James), pictured right, described University and in the coming year will (History, Halifax) in the June 2011 what motivates her: “It’s not just the fascinating conversations we can have and the things we can learn 2010/11 student caller about career and graduate options, Lauren Cowling but how encouraged we are when someone wants to donate. When I’ve spoken to the people funding the very opportunities offered here every day, it drives me to make the most of my time here at York.” Hilary Blake (History, Vanbrugh, 2003), Annual Fund Officer, told grapevine, “I’d like to thank all the alumni who take time to have a conversation with a current student, and especially those who give to York. Through talking to students you expand their horizons, enabling them to understand the ongoing value of a York education. Through giving, you help students to make the most of their time while they’re here.” “It’s not just the fascinating conversations we can have and the things we can learn about career and graduate options, but how encouraged we are when someone wants to donate”

Find out more about the The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University impact of your support at www.YorkSpace.net/giving 36 Giving to York

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You can also donate securely online at www.yorkspace.net/giving or call +44 (0) 1904 324 467 Return to the Development and Alumni Relations Office, FREEPOST NEA2100 University of York, 5 Main Street, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK A fragile state of affairs The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 38 Blending ideas and innovative thinking alongside research has always been a focus at York and at the University’s Post-war Reconstruction and Development Unit (PRDU) Sultan Barakat, Director of the unit explains how this approach has played a key role in helping damaged countries to recover after the fighting stops.

ore than 1.5 billion people on the world stage, expanding in by Dr David Connolly, into Education live in fragile and innovative directions, building on the in Conflict and Emergencies. Through conflict-affected states opportunities that arise within the the programme the University will Mor in countries with very high University and beyond. engage directly with policy and practice to develop academic thinking in this levels of criminal violence. Education in conflict relatively new area that is receiving According to the recent World Frank came to the University of York increasing international attention. Development Report published by the three years ago with a wealth of World Bank in April 2011, no low- experience in education in developing Peace and recovery after crisis income fragile or conflict-affected and fragile contexts. Throughout his The PRDU’s work in other disciplines country has achieved a single United work he had seen the devastating continues, and the Department Nations Millennium Development Goal effect conflict had on the education is now engaged with numerous and 90% of the last decade’s civil sector, national capacity and international institutions with wars occurred in countries that had children’s lives, and carrying on his programmes to promote peace and already experienced civil war in the work in partnership with the PRDU recovery after crisis. In October 2010, last 30 years. These worrying statistics was an obvious decision. This shared the PRDU completed an extensive highlight the huge number of people interest developed and really solidified project on behalf of the United whose lives are affected by conflict in in a global study carried out on behalf Nations Country Team in Yemen, in the world today, the serious difficulties of the United Nations Children’s Fund collaboration with the Government faced by countries recovering from (UNICEF), finishing in May 2010. The of Yemen. This evaluation provided conflict, and the vulnerabilities that study was a high profile independent a comprehensive analysis of the remain even decades after the review and evaluation of UNICEF’s Yemeni development context and fighting has stopped. Education in Emergencies and was designed to guide future policy There is no doubt that the study Post-Crisis Transitions Programme, and strategy for the country’s of conflict has now become a conducting fieldwork in Southern recovery and future development. mainstream subject and the disciplines Sudan, Kenya and Nepal. As part of The PRDU’s work also focuses on of international relations, politics this project, the evaluation team many other aspects of the transition and education are directing more of produced recommendations for from conflict to peace. These include their attention towards it. However, improvements and adjustments to dealing with migration issues, little attention has been paid to what the programme which contributed to promoting sustainable reintegration happens after the fighting has stopped UNICEF’s broader efforts to improve of refugees, facilitating community- and the transition to development the quality of their education response driven development, examining issues begins. Communities are often left in emergency contexts. of civil–military co-operation and divided and damaged and their Since then, the PRDU/IEE security sector reform, as well as governments often lack the capacity partnership focusing on education looking at transitional justice, economic to drive recovery. in conflict has continued to grow. recovery, physical reconstruction This is exactly what the Post-war Currently academics are working on a and promoting state and civil society A fragile state of affairs Reconstruction and Development project that will inform policy-makers capacity. It has always been the PRDU’s Unit (PRDU) focuses on. Started from on how best to support the scale-up philosophy that a holistic approach humble beginnings in the late 1980s, of education activities in fragile states that addresses all of these issues needs PRDU now has grown to incorporate such as Afghanistan and Pakistan. to be at the centre of any post-war many disciplines and touch on Growing work in this area has been recovery process and this can only issues such as politics, international marked by the launch of a joint be achieved through collaborative relations, education, economics, programme of research, managed interdisciplinary partnerships. development, human rights and health studies. Recent work with Professor Frank Hardman and the York-based

Institute of Effective Education has For more information on PRDU visit www.york.ac.uk/prdu. 39 also proved to be a powerful tool lthough York is not a city readily associated with the (Music, Vanbrugh, 2011), former professional production of opera, the University of York Chair of Operasoc, has directed two has strong links with the art form through the activities major productions while at York, and Aof staff, students and alumni. is intending to pursue a career in opera direction. Staff and staff alumni are also In 2007, the University’s Operasoc was training ground for students interested involved in opera on an academic founded by Francesca Geach (Music, in pursuing a career in opera. and creative basis. In May this year, Alcuin, 2009), then an undergraduate This year’s graduating class Dr Áine Sheil, Lecturer in Music at in the Department of Music, and now includes a number of students the University of York, co-hosted involved in opera accessibility projects intending to continue opera-related the conference Digital opera: new in Wellington, New Zealand. Operasoc activities when they leave York. Catrin means and new meanings, which has thrived in the intervening years, Woodruff (Music, Halifax, 2011), this brought artists and academics to producing fully staged operas every year’s Chair of Operasoc, performed York to explore new forms of opera summer – each one directed and in and staged her own adaptation involving media technologies. performed by York students. Its of Engelbert Humperdinck’s Former Heads of the Department of repertoire is eclectic, and includes performances earlier this year; in the Music have composed many operas: Weill’s Down in the Valley and Britten’s autumn she begins a postgraduate Professor Nicola LeFanu’s catalogue The Little Sweep (staged in 2008), course in Vocal Studies at the Royal includes The Story of Mary O’Neill, Poulenc’s Dialogues of the Carmelites Northern College of Music, where a radio opera (BBC Radio 3, 1987), (staged in 2009), Strauss’s Die she will focus on the performance The Wildman (Aldeburgh Festival, Fledermaus (staged in 2010) and of opera. She will be joined on the 1995) and Light Passing (BBC/National Mozart’s The Magic Flute, this same course by York graduate Centre for Early Music, York, 2004), summer’s production. These Natasha Best (Music, Derwent, 2011), while Professor David Blake’s operas productions don’t make opera who performed in and staged her include Toussaint (ENO, 1977), The available to only the University own opera adaptation earlier this Plumber’s Gift (ENO, 1989) and Scoring community and the wider York public: year (Mozart’s early opera Bastien a Century, which received its premiere they also provide a hugely effective and Bastienne). Fiona Constantine last year in Birmingham. The future is bright for opera The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University

40 Ian Page in action Another opera composer Bernard Rands associated with York is Bernard Rands, whose opera Vincent had its premiere at Indiana University in April 2011. Rands, who is originally from Yorkshire, was a lecturer at York between 1969 and 1975, and was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University. Although he has lived in the USA for nearly 40 years, he maintains strong family links with Yorkshire and continues to take an interest in music at the University of York. Based on the life of Vincent van Gogh, Vincent was commissioned by the Indiana University School of Music and Opera Department; together with the writer JD McClatchy, Rands created a full-length opera for a large cast and orchestra. Praising the performance of the Indiana students involved in the premiere, Rands said that they assumed ‘the role and attitude of professionalism’ and achieved ‘remarkable results’. The composer is optimistic about the future of opera. He advises young graduates interested in a career in opera to gain practical experience in a theatrical setting, working as répétiteur pianists (rehearsal coaches) and assistants to stage directors and designers. This, he reasons, is ‘the surest way to acquire the skills necessary to function effectively’. And this is exactly the approach that another York alumnus has taken to great effect. Ian Page (Vanbrugh, 1996), who studied English Literature at York before going on to postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London, was undergraduate degree in English was For him, every performance or assistant to the eminent conductor an excellent basis for a career in opera. production is a fresh encounter with Sir Charles Mackerras at Glyndebourne He has worked with numerous York a work, one that begins with an act and the Edinburgh Festival. At Scottish music graduates, most recently with of the imagination. Opera comes Opera he worked as assistant to violinists Daniel Edgar (Music, Alcuin, alive in performance, he argues, Nicholas McGegan, who specialises in 2001) and Nia Lewis (Music, Langwith, noting that performance is as much a

period instrument performance, and 2001) in Classical Opera Company’s creative as a re-creative art. Judging The future is bright for opera this experience proved particularly Le nozze di Figaro (June 2011). by the enthusiastic responses his formative: Page is now Artistic Director Although Page specialises in performances have garnered, Classical of the Classical Opera Company, which recreating period conditions in Opera Company’s audiences clearly he founded in order to specialise in performance, he certainly does agree that opera belongs as much in music of the second half of the 18th not see opera as museum culture. the present as in the past. century and the early 19th century. The company’s performances take place in intimate venues suited to For more information on concerts at York visit www.yorkconcerts.co.uk. this repertory, and its orchestra plays on period instruments or replicas For more information on the Classical Opera Company visit of instruments from that period. www.classicalopera.co.uk. For Page, opera is a means to For more information on Bernard Rands and his opera Vincent visit combine his interests in music www.bernardrands.com. 41 and literature. He says that his The mystery behind the plays The York Mystery Plays are a magnificent example of medieval drama. Using the colourful language of medieval Yorkshire, they present the ‘history of the world’ from the mystery of God’s creation, through the birth, death and resurrection of Christ, to the Last Judgement.

n summer 2012 York Mystery is written by local man Mike Kenny, the York Mystery Plays. Plays return to York Museum who adapted York Theatre Royal and MR: Mike, this is a major Gardens. A 1,400 seat the National Railway Museum’s Olivier challenge – or rather several Ibespoke theatre, currently award-winning production of major challenges – your role has The Railway Children. Over 1,000 local been pivotal in the one history of going up around the ancient people will join forces with a huge performance of these plays. There walls of St Mary’s Abbey will professional team to help create has the medieval wagon play tradition house this international event, this spectacular production. of street performance that operated which celebrates the 800th Here, Mike Kenny (MK) speaks until 1569, the fixed-place Museum anniversary of York’s city to Margaret Rogerson (MR), Associate Gardens tradition from 1951 to 1988, charter staus. Professor in the Department of English the academic wagon productions at the University of Sydney and author and the guild wagon plays from Produced by York Theatre Royal, of Playing a Part in History: the York 1988 onwards, the Theatre Royal Riding Lights Theatre Company and Mysteries 1951–2006 (Toronto, contributions in the 1992, 1996 and York Museums Trust and supported 2009), about this enterprise and the 2000 productions, and the Minster by City of York Council, this new immense task of putting together a production for the millennium. adaptation of the York Mystery Plays script for this new interpretation of Where does your own work start – is it a completely new beginning? MK: Yes, you grab the baton and attempt to run with it, only to find it’s attached to several hundred years of artistic, religious and civic expectations. After the initial euphoria of being offered the task, I spent some months paralysed by how daunting it was. I’ve spent some time trying to lose some of the weight of expectations. It would seem that it is impossible to please everyone. And that gives one a certain sense of giddy liberation. I also feel liberated from most of the burden of authenticity and heritage by the revival in recent years of the wagon play tradition. I have some very domestic aims, such as to not be boring, to be accessible, to be comprehensible. MR: The York Mysteries were The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University originally associated with the religious festival of Corpus Christi and they

42 present the biblical narrative of the Honorary graduate Judi Dench (far left) takes part in a 1960s production of the York Mystery Plays in her early acting career Creation to Last Judgement – often own divinity, and described as ‘the greatest story ever wrestling with Satan. told’. In view of your ‘domestic aims’, MR: Canon Purvis, how do you adapt a medieval religious who adapted the play and make it truly compelling for 15th-century text for a modern, mostly secular, world? the early Museum MK: Good question. The story it Gardens productions tells (more accurately: stories) has in the 50s, was very images that resound far beyond much aware of the issues of faith and history. The ‘Yorkshire’ sounds miracle/challenge of a child born in of the original script. poverty, the violent torture and death Local dialects are of a dissenting voice at the hands of much more familiar the State and the mob, the survival to a general audience of a devastating disaster where your than they were then. whole world is wiped out. This is not Are you planning dependent on a relationship with to capitalise on this divinity. You don’t have to believe in local aspect through before, after, or beyond in order to be your own writing? engaged. What we don’t want to do MK: The northern is strain for contemporary relevance. voice isn’t as big a We are attempting to mine for deal as it was in the universal, lasting statements. early 50s. Northern MR: In the modern tradition, you Broadsides based an are the third professional scriptwriter artistic policy on it to grapple with this sprawling and Tony Harrison text of 47 separate plays and to took it to the National Theatre MK: The York Realist, whoever pare it down to a ‘theatre-length’ itself. I plan to carry on the tradition he was, was a true artist. I would production – the other two being because it would feel like a betrayal be honoured to stand comparison Liz Lochhead (1992, 1996) and Mike not to. The Mystery Plays come from with him. I’ll have to leave it to Poulton (2000). The Museum Gardens a northern heritage and offer a poetry posterity to decide. scripts tended to stick fairly closely of the everyday that you will find to the medieval originals, whereas present in most of my work anyway. those of Lochhead and Poulton were MR: The medieval Mystery Plays more adventurous. How would you belonged to the York community York Mystery Plays describe your own method? in special ways, partly because MK: When I first stood in the they were organised, financed and The University of York has shadow cast by the Mysteries I felt performed by the community. been working closely with York extremely inadequate to the task. As a York citizen yourself, Theatre Royal over the last few I am not a poet. I am not a historian. how do you see the plays working years to help raise awareness of My method is to apply the rules of as ‘community theatre’ in the York’s strength in contemporary theatre. I’m a playwright and I’m modern city? arts and culture. As part of turning this into a play. Given that this MK: The community is at the heart this relationship local alumni is man’s story of God, what I will do is of realising the plays. Inevitably a are invited to get proactively tell the tale of God as a man. Therefore, community is as varied as the people involved with the 2012 York we see not the wise old patriarch, but living in the city. My hope is that Mystery Plays. There are many the young father, who still walks in we can touch and give voice to the opportunities available, from

the garden with his children, Adam true diversity of York. I don’t want it costume design and production, The mystery behind the play and Eve. We see his anger at their to include only the ‘good’ kids who set building, hair and make-up inevitable loss of innocence. Things always put their hands up. I want to and of course the opportunity are not much better when he is forced pull in a few of the ones who hang to act in the production. to wipe out the human race again and out behind the bike sheds too. A few Alumni from further afield are rescue only Noah and his family. Finally moneylenders and prostitutes would encouraged to take advantage he chooses to incarnate as a human be very welcome. of the special discounted tickets, being, to descend among us and MR: The medieval text contains available through YorkSpace.net, intervene directly, and hence we are the voices of many different if they are back in York for a visit. into the Nativity. I know this requires scriptwriters – one of them, the To get involved, find out a radical cut – however, in terms of ‘York Realist’, is credited with a more or to purchase tickets the arc of a play, it means we leave series of plays from the Passion on York Mystery Plays visit the first half with the Massacre of the sequence, and his voice stands out www.yorkmysteryplays

Innocents and the Flight into Egypt, markedly from the others. Are you -2012.com. 43 and return to Christ awakening to his the new York Realist? Finding a voice Current Politics student Victoria Lee interviews alumna and

The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University award-winning author Linda Grant 44 ovelist and alumna Linda “You write what’s inside you to be Grant tells me, “I think it was Ishiguro [author of written. You examine the themes NNever Let Me Go] who said, actually, you’re always writing which are coming from inside your the same novel – just trying to own consciousness” outdo your last attempt by using a different narrative structure.”

Linda, who graduated from York themselves to be more ‘outside’ to her 18-year-old undergraduate in 1975 with a degree in English than she does. contemporaries, had already lived Literature, has written a diverse range Indeed, her upbringing within away from home and experienced the of literature from fiction to non-fiction, an immigrant community excluded working world. Thus, she says, arriving examining issues from the Israeli her from the constraints of the at university initially made her feel conflict to the sexual revolution. concrete class structures which “different and a little odd”. She has been shortlisted for the riddled post-war Britain. “When I Linda returned to York a Booker Prize, won the Orange Prize was younger most people grew up few years ago for a feature she for Fiction and been shortlisted for with a real sense of your class defining was writing for The Guardian and the Guardian Book of the Year. you.” She continues, “The notion of found the University ‘changed Certain themes and characters knowing your place within the rigid beyond recognition’. predominate in her fiction, continually class system and knowing that you “When I arrived in York at the reappearing under alternative plots. The couldn’t move out of it was dominant. beginning of the 1970s,” she says, perpetual question of which actions and But immigrants don’t have a place “it was this brand new concrete moments have led us to the present, in the class system.” university in this village on the outskirts along with the characteristic immigrant Being free from the constraints of town.” She continues, “We spent family, the outsiders and feminism, of class meant the common choice most of our time on the campus and endure throughout her works. among much of the 1950s working never really went to town because According to Linda, she does not class of removing a child from school there was nothing to do.” start writing her novels with these at 15 to go to work was alien to Linda’s In contrast, the present-day notions and ideas in mind; these parents. Instead they believed that University is steadily growing and has themes, which have become her you could be anything you wanted to around 14,000 students. In Linda’s time undisputed hallmark, appear to emerge be – an attitude true of all immigrant there was a student population of just naturally with the finished product. groups says Linda. over 2,500. When I tell her that students I want to understand the influences Thus, living on the ‘outside’ of today often moan because there are and experiences which have forced her mainstream society has been a source a mere three nightclubs in York, she to draw these particular elements from of literary power for the novelist. laughs. “There was just nothing back inside her ‘own consciousness’. Experiencing human interactions and then,” she says. “There was one Italian Linda’s journey began long relations from an outsider perspective restaurant and an Indian. The young before her arrival at the University has allowed her to gain a much more people from the town used to come to of York. Following a highly sheltered complex view of the world, which has the campus for entertainment because upbringing by Ukrainian and Polish invaluably enriched her writing. that was the only thing to do.” immigrant parents within a traditionally Thus, if we have established that Indeed, a ‘good night out’ at conservative Jewish community, the the conflicts of Linda’s childhood are York back in the 1970s involved going teenage Grant was catapulted into a the source of the ‘outsider’ immigrant to Vanbrugh College’s hippie whole- world of opposite values – the socially protagonist which transcends her food snack bar, called Alligator. Linda revolutionary 1960s Liverpool. fiction, I am interested to establish says, “There was a disco next to the “People’s childhoods are which themes present in her work snack bar so you’d eat your brown incredibly instrumental in forging are derived from her experiences in rice and lentils (everything had to be who they are and why they make later life – specifically her time at brown back then), then go and bop certain decisions,” says Linda. university in York. on the dance floor.” An upbringing composed of Linda left school at 17 and worked This reference to whole foods influences from such opposing ends as a journalist for a local newspaper. and brown lentils leads us to discuss of the social spectrum has led her to After just a few months of work, she what Linda terms the ‘hippie idealism’ Finding a voice feel that, “There’s a certain kind of decided that her friends at university initiated in the late 1960s. Linda looks Englishness which I’ve always been were enjoying themselves more, at this ‘belief that my generation was outside of. I always felt I was observing and decided to return to school. going to change the world’ in her new it rather than being part of it.” She completed her A levels in a year, novel, We Had It So Good. Perhaps this explains why when before gaining a place at York to study The novel consists of an intricate Linda began writing, she says she English Literature. examination of the day-to-day found her novelistic voice through Linda was 21 when she decisions and consequences which 45 writing about people who feel arrived at York and, in contrast have led Stephen, a second-generation immigrant and a product of 1960s Indeed, Linda’s generation were the thoughts. “I was at a party five or six idealism, to a career as a BBC ‘post-war’ children. They had been years ago,” she says. “It was a black producer, with two successful raised on a diet of rationing and tie event and this guy who had this children and a £3m house in Islington. conservatism but had also felt the full iron‑grey, well-cut hair and a really She describes the novel as an force of the post-war welfare state. nice suit came over to me and said attempt to “track the trajectory of As she says, “We were the beneficiaries he’d also been to York [University]. the failure of the lofty idealism of of these fantastic things – the National He told he had been responsible the 1960s...” Health Service, the expansion of for starting up Alligator, the health Indeed, this question of why the university education…” food bar”. The very place Linda and 1960s generation failed to achieve “There was a lot of new music and her friends used to hang out, based their goals merely forms part of a ideas floating around… we were the in Vanbrugh College. broader examination within Linda’s first generation to be recreationally When she asked him what he literature of how we reach the present using drugs.” Linda pauses then laughs was doing now, he said he worked and the forces and influences which as she says, “It was my generation in advertising. Linda exclaims: “I just have led us here. that really embraced drugs; we saw thought – how does someone go When I tell Linda that one critic them as an exploration of higher from the idealistic position of setting has described her novels as “an consciousness… we thought we were up a hippie health food store and attack on the 1960s generation, revolutionaries who were going to then 35 years later you’re working painting them as smug, hypocritical remake the world into a radically in advertising? hippie capitalists,” she is irritated. different place.” “My novels try to plot how people “Not at all,” she says. The ‘new world’ that Linda’s moved from that state of 1960s hippie Thus, I ask, has she found any contemporaries imagined consisted idealism to being people on the verge answers to why her contemporaries of “fantastic music, fantastic fashion of retirement with adult children and initially embraced the revolutionary and fantastic ideas”. It was intended big houses and successful jobs.” principles of the 1960s? And what to be “so much better than the world Far from leveraging an ultimately led to them to abandon of our parents.” “attack on the 1960s generation” for their ‘hippie idealism’? Has the 1960s The notion that this new world their demise from hippie liberals to radicalism led to any social change? lay just out of reach led to “a sort “smug hippie capitalists”, Linda says Linda begins, “We had all grown of explosion of radical ideas that that her novels are intended to suggest up in these very bourgeois, suburban our parents’ generation were very, that we have no control over our fate; families and hated the restrictions of very threatened by”. instead it is dictated by the luck of detached and semi-detached houses Linda recollects a story which circumstance and the consequences of and our very conservative parents.” seems to sum up the trajectory of her apparently inconsequential decisions.

“A ‘good night out’ at York back in the 1970s involved going to Vanbrugh College’s hippie whole-food snack bar, called Alligator” The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 46 Her texts constitute a continuous Linda winning the Orange Prize for Fiction effort to derive an answer to that all‑enduring question of how and why we arrive at the present in the way we do. Her peers are not to blame she says, for the parts of the “revolution” which irredeemably failed; their failure was merely the consequence of minute decisions and actions, seemingly irrelevant at the time. However, that is not to say Linda does not see significant gains have come from the 1960s. While the mass of liberal dreams chased by Linda’s generation may have failed, she says. “The feminist movement and the gay liberation movement were the true revolutions of the 1960s... both have had “The feminist movement There was also the difficulty of very significant long-range and obtaining birth control. long‑lasting consequences.” and the gay liberation “Until the pill, women had no Linda’s focus in her literature movement were the control over their own fertility,” on the feminist movement is she says. And yet, even with the certainly an interest influenced by true revolutions of introduction of oral contracepion, her three years at York. Indeed, the 1960s” until the 1960s women had to provide she belongs to the generation of proof of marriage or at the very women who were responsible for least engagement before it would be revolutionising sexual equality. Linda’s passion for the subject prescribed. Thus, says Linda, “You Linda’s first work of non-fiction, is evident in her changed tone of had to rely on a man to use a condom Sexing the Millennium: Women and voice. “Before the original feminist and if he didn’t… well... forget it.” the Sexual Revolution was published movement in the 1960s, a married In this respect, the achievements in 1993 and attempted to trace the woman couldn’t get a credit card of the 1960s are unrivalled. Just path of women’s liberation. without her husband’s signature.” ten years before Linda’s time, the She tells me that the York majority of women who went to Women’s Action Group, set up by university would “just get married in students in the year above her at their last term and never work again”. York, was something she got involved She continues, “Women then in during her very first term. “We just didn’t have the expectation they used to debate feminism late into could go and do the same jobs as the night,” she tells me. “Groups of men. It was quite sickening really… 19-year-old girls sharing these ideas. a very different world from today.” There were only about four or five After I finish speaking to Linda, feminist books available to read at I flick back through her novels. the time and we’d read them all.” The Linda Grant hallmarks of “I mean,” exclaims Linda, outsiders, immigrants, feminism “my God, by the time we’d finished and that enduring question of how [university] there was a whole shelf and why the present is attained full of feminist literature.” stand out stronger than ever. She says that young women Delving into Linda’s conflicting and today are often oblivious to the inconsistent past has allowed me changes initiated in the 1960s and to understand the origins of these merely see the women responsible persistent themes. as “stereotypical bra-burning, hairy- For Linda, ideas arise from the Finding a voice legged feminists” who achieved little. subconscious, the result of a myriad The amount of times she has heard For further information of influences past and present. an educated women in her 30s ask, on Linda’s novels visit “Ideas come from absolutely “The sexual revolution? I didn’t realise www.lindagrant.co.uk everywhere and everything around there’d been one,” is astonishing. We had it so good is available you,” she tells me. “From people “If women today knew what to purchase at all good book and friends who influence you to the the world was like before feminism, shops at RRP £14.99. everyday consequences of decisions 47 they’d be horrified,” she says. you and those around you make.” Bringing ideas to life Summer 2011 saw world-class speakers, exhibitions and performances brought together for the inaugural York Festival of Ideas. Exhibition by the Irish photographer, John Minihan

his exciting new Cordner, at the new theatre in the inspired by woodcuts from the King collaboration between the Department of Theatre, Film and James Bible (new parables include University of York, the Television, and The Greatest Story the story of the lost parrot and the TTheatre Royal, York Museums Ever Told, a unique blend of early parable of the Youtube millionaire!). Renaissance music and digital At the Sensory Stories Café, a project Trust and the National Centre imagery, inspired by the Mystery which uses taste, sound, smell, sight for Early Music, explored links Plays, at the National Centre for Early and touch to present university between the past and the Music, produced by Dr Ambrose Field. research to the public, children present, connecting the city’s At the York Art Gallery, Professor made a variety of paintings inspired heritage to contemporary art, Mark Hallett, also from the University by David Hockney’s Bigger Trees ideas and culture. The theme discussed William Etty’s controversial near Warter and sampled a mouthful reputation, whilst the ‘Bring your of the Victorian gruel as served to for the 2011 Festival of Ideas Family Bible’ event, modelled on Oliver Twist. programme was Samuel Beckett, Antiques Roadshow and hosted the body, and the Bible. by Peter Miller at Spelman’s Rare “WATCH out Edinburgh, Books with Professor Bill Sherman The Festival, which featured over 24 from the Department of English and York is on the march” events, included work from University Related Literature at the University, students and staff, as well as visiting produced a great deal of fascinating Stephen Lewis, The Press writers and performers. This inaugural conversation and rare books, event was launched to the public including a 1575 Bishops’ Bible. The Festival aims to promote at a gala reception, with a talk and Festival events to mark the York as a city of ideas and innovation; exhibition by the Irish photographer, anniversary of the King James Bible it also provides an important John Minihan, at the spectacular new were also included in the exhibition – vehicle for taking the University’s Ron Cooke Hub at Heslington East. A Book Fit for a King, at York Minster’s research to new audiences. Plans More than 700 people packed Old Palace, and two projects for young are already being made for the 2012 Central Hall the following week to hear people. More than 250 entries were Festival, the theme for which will be the Nobel Laureate, J. M. Coetzee, read received from 5-16 year olds in a metamorphosis and transformation. from his work in progress. Musical competition organised by the Centre and theatrical performances included for Christianity and Culture to write Anthony Minghella’s Two Planks and design Ten Commandments for If you would like further and a Passion at the Theatre Royal, the 21st century. The National Centre information or are interested in The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University Thomas Middleton’s hilarious satire, for Early Music and the University also becoming involved, please contact A Mad World, My Masters, directed ran an initiative with children at York [email protected].

48 by University of York Professor Mike primary schools to create their own art Events notices – dates for your diary

University lectures and events York Concert Series n 27 October – The Morrell Lecture Summerfield (Psychology) n 26 October – Christian n 27 October – Public Lecture n 23 November – The Cantor Wallumrød Ensemble by Alison Weir entitled ‘Elizabeth Modern Art Lecture by actor n 2 November – Baroque The virgin queen’ Oliver Ford-Davies solo cantatas n 31 October – Inaugural Lectures n 28 November – The n 9 November – Quatuor Diotima delivered by Professor Chris Vice‑Chancellor’s Lecture delivered n 11 November – Timecraft Kyriacou and Professor Leah by Baroness Mary Warnock n 16 and 17 November – Roberts (Education) n 7 December – Postgraduate ‘Goodnight Gertrude’ n 9 November – Politics and Open Day n 23 November – Danny Driver the Media debate with Steve n 8 December at 6pm – The Centre n 30 November – The 24 Richards and Helen Boaden for the Study of Christianity n 7 December – University n 15 November – ‘Infections and and Culture Annual Lecture by Symphony Orchestra cancer: A brief history’ – a Baron Melvyn Bragg entitled n 14 December – University Choir lecture by Dr Robert Newton ‘The radical impact of the King n 25 January 2012 – John Taylor n 21 November – Inaugural Lecture James Bible 1611-2011’ n 11 February 2012 – Lieder Day delivered by Professor Quentin n 15 February 2012 – Roy Howat n 22 February 2012 – University Chamber Orchestra n 7 March 2012 – University Choir York Alumni Association (YAA) events and Northern Sinfonia n 10 March 2012 – University n 20 October – YAA Boston, venue TBC n 6 November – YAA Pune, India Symphony Orchestra n 14 November – Third Sector n 8 November – YAA Delhi, India n 5 May 2012 – Baroque Day Professional Network Launch at n 9 November – YAA London n 9 to 13 May 2012 – Spring Festival The King’s Place, London new graduates event ofNew Music n 22 November – Media, Journalism n November, date TBC, n 16 May 2012 – Tim Lowe and and PR Professional Network YAA Manchester James Baillieu Launch at BAFTA, London n November, date TBC, YAA York n 23 May 2012 – Gamelan Sekar Petak n 28 November – Finance, Law and n February 2012 – 50@50 – n 8 June 2012 – Nish as Rish Management Professional Network 50th anniversary awareness event n 20 June 2012 – Sir Jack Launch at PricewaterhouseCoopers, n 4-6 May 2012 – Roses 2012 Lyons Concert Embankment Place, London n 15-17 June 2012 – Annual n 27 June 2012 – University Choir n 3 November – YAA Bangalore, India Alumni Reunion Weekend and Symphony Orchestra Events notices – dates for your diary International visits n 15–30 October – Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, n 8–12 October – Taipei, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan, Hangzhou UKEAS Fair Kaohsiung – UKEAS Tour n 29 November – Bogota – Europosgrados Exhibition 24 n 29–30 October – Bangkok – OCSC International n 19 November – Delhi – British Council Education UK 12 Education Expo n 30 September –3 October – Tokyo – British Council n 8–12 October – Istanbul – IEFT Istanbul and and Agent Fairs School Visits n 19–21 October – Amman – Bridge International n 24 October – Dubai – Global Vision Exhibitions n 15–20 September – Nairobi, Mombasa International n 7–10 October – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh – UKEAS Tour Schools and Postgraduate Study Fairs n 1–2 October – Moscow – Education UK Exhibition

Visit www.YorkSpace.net/events for more details and to book for alumni and University events. 49 Media moguls From Nouse to YSTV, York is well known for the talent it produces. Here grapevine looks back at the humble beginnings of student media on campus.

he history of student as well as by the challenge of building newspapers at York is what would become the University’s one of conflict and rivalry. unique identity and traditions. At TAlmost half a century has pan-university level we had the Student Representative Council and, passed since the founding of to some extent, Eboracum magazine Early days at URY the first student newspaper at to reflect student opinion, but my year York – Nouse. Yet the battles group felt we needed a newspaper Peter Burley (History, Langwith, and aspirations of the founders to record the ongoing debate and 1970), who worked as a general news remain as alive as ever between emerging history as well as to make reporter for the paper between 1968 the current editorial teams. interventions on behalf of the student and 1970, says, “We worked out of one body – hence Nouse”. room in Derwent College and sold the Nouse was founded in 1964, a year According to Chris Perry (English paper for three old pennies per issue”. after the opening of the University and History, Derwent, 1967), a In the days long before the word of York. The founding of York Vision contributing writer on the original processor Nick Cater (Politics with came later, in 1987, born from a split Nouse team, the paper’s name, was Educational Studies, 1978), who in the Nouse editorial board. thought up by the Sub-Editor, Bryan was Editor of Nouse from 1975 to 1978, The first edition of Nouse was Merton (Politics, Langwith, 1967) “in recalls the basic technology as being published on 23 November 1964. The a boring Sociology lecture”. An article “nothing more than typing up notes paper, founded by Politics and Sociology in Nouse’s first edition outlining its from a notebook”. student, Richard Mann, started as no purpose stated: “The connotation In the late 1980s however, a dispute more than an A4 leaflet. The pages of the Greek NOUS is intelligence or between the Nouse editorial board were printed with wall-to-wall text comprehension, OUSE is after the led the Politics Editor, Mark Watts and by-lines were non‑existent. River Ouse, chosen to indicate our (Sociology, Langwith, 1988), to break Richard told grapevine, “The locality and if pronounced NOOZE this away and form York Vision. University was still very new when becomes in phonetic terms NEWS”. we started Nouse. Students and administration were reacting to each other in ways heavily influenced by the mood of truculent freedom of the times, The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 50

Mark spent the following year recalls that the station was “no battling with the University of York’s more than a couple of Portakabins Student Union for funding for the in Derwent” during his time at York. new publication. Vision eventually URY now broadcasts 24 hours a day qualified as a YUSU society and was during term‑time, and the station’s granted funding of £2,500 a year. long-running news programme York According to Lawrence De’Ath Report at 6pm remains a pivotal (Electronic Engineering, Derwent, part of the evening schedule. 1989), who worked on Nouse in YSTV is officially England’s 1986, the introduction of competition oldest student television station. forced Nouse to up their game. He According to Lawrence De’Ath, commented, “Whilst Nouse was on who worked on the station in its typewriters, Vision made use of the early days, up until the 1980s, University computer and thus had a YSTV was “based in a broom completely different style and could cupboard behind one of the giant print and format text in a much lecture theatres in a science building”. more elegant way”. Certainly, Vision Lawrence continued, “Our studio aspired to produce a professional was literally built by electronics URY station today newspaper in the style of The Sun. students in their spare time. The kit Thus, Vision was born. Nouse and and equipment was either begged, Vision printed on alternate weeks, borrowed or built”. Team were awarded the Silver Award meaning that campus activities had This is vastly different to the for Best Journalistic Programming for constant media coverage. contemporary YSTV which began the second year running. While Lawrence says Nouse took to broadcast live in 2006. All of York has produced a number a while to “wake up” to the new its content is now available on of notable journalists to date. competition, they did eventually begin demand on its website. Nouse Editor Henry James Foy, is to fight back, re-branding themselves Today, as in the 1980s, YSTV is now a correspondent with Reuters as a broadsheet newspaper, as opposed highly reputable within the media international news agency in New to Vision’s tabloid appeal. industry. According to Lawrence, Delhi. He was recently listed in Foreign Until the 1990s both papers “Back in the 1980s, the BBC was Policy magazine’s Top 100 foreign- worked out of single rooms in Derwent practically coming to YSTV to hire policy tweeters. Heidi Blake went on to College; today their offices are based in people. The technical and production write for the Daily Telegraph and was Vanbrugh College’s Grimston House and people would put it on their CVs and responsible for the recent Vince Cable publish on a thrice termly basis. easily get jobs in the media.” ‘sting’. Anthony Horowitz (English, Competition between the The quality of student media at Vanbrugh, 1977), English novelist and newspapers is fierce. Indeed, their York is renowned and York is well screenwriter, was Editor of Nouse back frequent success, as well as the success known for the awards it receives. Since in the 1980s. Vision has also produced of the University radio station, URY, the editorship of Heidi Blake (English a number of notable names, including and TV station, YSTV (York Student and Politics, Alcuin, 2008), in 2005, Stephen Curran (Mathematics, Television), has given the University Nouse has been named Best Student Vanbrugh, 1999) – one of Britain’s a reputation of media excellence. Newspaper at the NUS National Student most notable games journalists. URY, the campus radio station Journalism Awards, and runner-up covering the University of York, at the Guardian Student Newspaper was the first legal independent radio Awards. In 2007, Heidi was named station in the United Kingdom, founded Guardian Student Journalist of the in 1967 by student Mike Greasley Year, Best Features Writer and Best Where are they now? (English with Philosophy, Derwent and Diversity Writer. Nouse’s success Numerous alumni have been a Vanbrugh, 1968). continued until 2009 when it again part of the student media teams The station was won the Best Student Media award in at York, so many in fact that we initially established to the NUS Awards and then-Editor Henry couldn’t list everyone here. Visit broadcast lectures and James Foy (English with Philosophy, www.YorkSpace.net/gv_ educational material Derwent, 2010) was shortlisted for mediaalumni and add your as well as popular Journalist of the Year. name and memories to the list of alumni who have been part music. However, Rivalry in still fierce between the Media moguls contemporary output is two papers, each winning awards of these publications. mainly entertainment- as in 2007 Vision won Best Student based. Frazer Sheppard Newspaper at the Guardian Student A word from the current editors… (Politics, Vanbrugh, 1981), Media Awards, and was again Log on to www.YorkSpace.net/ who was a Breakfast DJ nominated in 2010. Current editor gv_editorcomment to hear from for URY in 1981, and is Daniel Goddard (Economics, James) the current editors of Nouse, Vision, YSTV and URY. now a Producer on the was nominated for Best Reporter in 51 ITV show Countrywise, the same year. In 2010 the URY News Building our future

hilanthropy has played an important role in Why write a will? the success of our first P50 years and, with alumni help, Richard Watson, a Director in Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors LLP in York, friend of the University can do more. the University and Legator, gives grapevine readers the benefit of his advice: York is a young university in terms of legacy support, It might seem very unsettling, even morbid, to contemplate a will so without the reserves that are that, while many go through the first stage of planning one, they so often available to some older soon grind to a halt. The reality of the situation is quite the converse: once established institutions. In the they have completed the will, there is a feeling of relief, a sense that a box can be ticked and the huge reassurance that they have left things sorted future, we know that this for the future. form of income will become So what are the pitfalls of not having a will? The first relates to the speed increasingly important. with which those left can access the assets of an Estate. A will usually appoints an Executor whose role is to step into the shoes of the deceased. More and more donors are choosing to While it may be necessary to get a Grant of Probate for dealing with large give a legacy pledge to demonstrate assets in an Estate, an Executor takes their authority from the will and they their support. As the University is a have the power to act immediately. From a practical point of view, it is so charity, bequests to York are tax useful to have somebody to take decisions straight away. The stark contrast efficient. Making a bequest offers the of intestacy is that no one has authority to act until a Grant of Letters of chance to make a transformational Administration is obtained. Even with a straightforward Estate, this is going impact beyond a lifetime and an active to take months. way to help the University build for our From a testator’s perspective, making a will means choice as it gives future and realise the potential of them an ability to create a framework to pass on money and assets as is tomorrow’s brilliant minds. appropriate. Typically, in a ‘couple’ situation, the first call is to ensure that the survivor is adequately provided for. Once that aspect has been dealt Heslington Circle with, if there are children, normally a testator will want to provide for them York is pleased to announce the or their issue. launch of the Heslington Circle to The contrasting situation of intestacy is that statute dictates who in the recognise the tremendous importance family inherits. By definition, this ‘one size fits all’ invariably leads to problems with which we view legacy pledges by for those left behind. For instance, in the case of one of a young couple our alumni and friends. dying, leaving young children, far too little money may go to the surviving The Heslington Circle is our means parent and too much to the young children and, perhaps, the most glaring of expressing our gratitude and problem of all is the fact that intestacy does not recognise the position of appreciation to those who inform the unmarried partner, notwithstanding the duration of any relationship and us that that they intend to help the that there is financial dependency. The only avenue open to such a partner University by provision in their will. then is to make an application to the Court under the Inheritance Act; at The Circle will hold an annual best, this is cumbersome, time-consuming and expensive and, at worst, it event each September to say thank can create damaging family rows. Apart from family you and share our exciting plans for considerations, a will allows a testator to make other the future. As part of the Circle, the gifts in recognition of what has been important University will also keep you informed in their life. Charitable giving is very important of developments within the University to many and one of the advantages is that it is a and you will receive invitations to fantastic way to save Inheritance Tax. The bottom on‑campus events. line is that for every thousand pounds given to charity, the cost to an Estate paying Inheritance To let us know that you have Tax is merely £600 and, if we value the work which made a gift in your will, please charities do, what better destination than to remember them when we are no more?

The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University email [email protected] and we will keep you up-to-date Visit www.YorkSpace.net/legacy with Heslington Circle activities. for details. 52 Why I left a bequest…

“Making a legacy is above all an act “Nurturing ability and talent has of trust and a sign of confidence. always been important to me. It was Nearly 50 years on from joining the a natural choice for me to leave a fledgling University, I can see that it legacy to help individual students has grown and developed in ways attending my University. Learning that justify the dream of its founding about the various hardships facing fathers and I am absolutely sure particular groups, I am pleased to that money bequeathed to it will be have indicated that my legacy should in safe hands and wisely deployed be used to offer practical support to on the coming generations of young people taking a first degree undergraduates who need it even from low income backgrounds. more badly than ever.” The University will manage the funds and I have been able to direct my gift Christopher Perry to an area which is important to me.” (English and History, Derwent, 1967) Diane Cook (Politics and History, Goodricke, 1971) Legacies: building our future

If you would like to make a gift to the University visit www.YorkSpace.net/legacy

for more information or contact Susie Fothergill directly at [email protected]. 53 Conserving the future

Two York alumni are working to protect “People find deep meaning in connections to place, time and the buildings of the past and safeguard ancestors, even as societies propel forward with innovations in structure, the construction of the future. materials and architectural expression.” “Conservation is a process by s any student, tourist or among the city of York’s history which we transmit history to future resident would attest, attracts some of the brightest generations,” says Susan Macdonald, much of York’s and best in the field of architectural Head of Field Projects for the Getty Aundeniable charm lies in its conservation to study the art of Conservation Institute and a 1996 preserving the past and graduate of the same programme. stunning architecture, from protecting the future. “Our built environment is the towering spires of the “Stewards of world cultural the physical evidence of past Minster to the winding Roman heritage protect and conserve the achievements. So as well as walls that still encircle part of history of the built environment ensuring that we can pass on this the centre today, spanning created by mankind over millennia,” evidence of human endeavour, centuries and telling the story says Kim Lovejoy, Vice President we are also contributing to a and Restoration Project Director at sustainable environment.” of a city and its inhabitants EverGreene Architectural Arts, and For both the alumni, living and The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University through bricks and mortar. a 1990 graduate of the University studying among the decay of historic It is perhaps no wonder then, that of York’s MA programme in architecture and landscapes, and

54 a university that lives and breathes Conservation Studies. learning from specialists how they are Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, NY Mural, Harlem Hospital, NY

Before and after conservation at Before and after conservation at StSt. Matthews Matthews Cathedral, Cathedral, Washington Washington DC Restored city council chambers, Yonkers, NY

managing conservation in buildings “The environment there is perfect articles, and the curriculum from around them, were huge bonuses of for someone studying this subject.” the York course was often a the York course, and major influences And there is no doubt that Susan reference in my research. on their understanding of architectural and Kim’s extensive success in their “Welcoming clergy and Evensong history and conservation theory. respective careers has a lot to do with at York Minster led me to become “Touring the rooftop of their time at the University. interested in the Episcopal Church. Westminster Abbey with the architect “York provided me with a great It’s no coincidence that I’ve been and going to the woodwork shop of a network of professional colleagues deeply involved in the restoration master craftsman in York sure beats and friends that span the globe of Gothic Revival-style Episcopal sitting in a lecture hall and looking at – past students and teachers. churches in New York City in recent

fuzzy black and white photos in books It also provided me with a well- years,” she recalls. Conserving the future in the United States,” Kim laughs. recognised higher degree which has Kim came to York after an “I remember being flummoxed on been important to my professional undergraduate degree in history of an assignment to address structural standing,” says Susan. architecture and urban design at issues at a small Gothic parish “My thesis provided a stepping Harvard, and an MA from Boston church in York centre, compared to stone to develop an emerging University in Preservation Studies. students who were practising historic area of conservation practice and Susan was studying in Rome, and architects,” she recalls. led to a number of opportunities. when offered a six-month stint at York “York is a beautiful and important Overall, York was extremely in 1996 to complete her MA in Built city historically and a wonderful important to my career.” Heritage, she jumped at the chance.

laboratory for learning about Kim concurs: “Over the years “I had been living and working 55 conservation,” Susan agrees. I published scores of technical in London for a number of years by that stage and so it seemed a great built in the present, and the future. opportunity to complete my MA. I had “We can’t just discard everything already attended a number of short from the past; that would be courses at the Institute of Advanced environmentally irresponsible, Architectural Studies (IoAAS) which but also just think of some of the were terrific and their MA programme most beautiful places you have is well regarded internationally – so it been to and what makes them seemed too good to miss,” she says. special,” says Susan. Susan works closely with “Each generation creates its two other York alumni from the buildings in a way that reflects conservation programme, Thomas the technology and ideals of the Roby (Conservation Studies, 1987) day. The practice of creating and Gionata Rizzi (Conservation today’s architecture is extremely Studies, Wentworth, 1991), who both important too. teach the Rome course that led her “I have always loved historic to York in the first place. buildings; there is something about “I meet alumni all over the place: their grace and sense of history Canada, Australia, Italy, USA and India that has appealed to me. I also love for example, all doing great work. The modern design. Perhaps that’s wonderful Michael Stratton, who was why I ended up being interested in my thesis supervisor at IoASS, involved conserving modern architecture – me in various initiatives related to the Alumna Kim Lovejoy it is the bridge between the past, conservation of modern buildings and present and future,” Susan adds. I was able to gain his help in things we That’s a view shared by Kim, were doing at English Heritage at that “York is a beautiful whose firm, EverGreene, has worked time,” says Susan. on some of the most iconic buildings Both alumni boast glittering and important city in the United States, including the CVs that speak of an international historically and Waldorf-Astoria Ballroom in New career of architectural conservation, York, and 37 state buildings across and put them at the forefront of a a wonderful laboratory the country. growing debate on the importance of for learning about “Our mission is to make the fine preserving the buildings of the past, art and architectural ornament in and of ensuring the longevity of those conservation” landmark civic buildings, houses of The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University

Conserving original decoration, Park Avenue Armory, NY Kim on site at the Thurgood Marshall Courthouse, NY 56 worship, theatres and museums look its best so that people will feel a sense of awe and civic pride. “Key principles are to research and test materials and methods that are compatible with historic materials and construction, and ‘do no harm’ – that is, avoid treatments that people in 30 years will complain about,” explains Kim. And her advice for future architectural conservationists is to check every single detail about how the building is constructed. “In your career, it’s important to pay close attention to learning the practical business of maintaining buildings: construction costs, contracts, schedules, logistics, safety, funding sources and politics. Be an Alumna Susan Macdonald advocate for good conservation Photo: Dennis Keeley. Used with permission of the Getty Conservation Institute practices that are practical and durable,” she says. “Architects saw modernism as a means to societal The striking contrast between the University of York’s buildings in advancement. It was aspiration” the centre of the city, such as the 15th century King’s Manor and the grey 1960s buildings that dominate the Conference Center, built in 1964 architecture, to the World Heritage main campus, makes for an interesting opposite the United Nations complex list. It’s no wonder that she cites it as case study in their field. in Manhattan. her favourite piece of architecture. “A lot of people think architecture “There are some incredibly “It was a fantastic moment from the 20th century is less beautiful beautiful modern buildings around, when the Sydney Opera House than older buildings,” says Susan. buildings that exploited new was inscribed on the heritage list,” “The Centre of Conservation advances in engineering and material recalls Susan. Studies was located in the King’s technologies – the Sydney Opera “It is an incredibly beautiful Manor – in the centre of the historic House is an example,” says Susan. building designed by a master city – so I did not spend time on the “Architects saw modernism as architect and with a huge number 1960s campus. Nevertheless perhaps a means to societal advancement. of highly talented engineers, builders people are beginning to reappraise it It was aspiration. Like buildings of and craftspeople. Its construction now that architecture from the second any era there are successes and is a great story and the building is half of the 20th century is becoming failures and time will prove which symbolic of Australia’s emerging appreciated,” she adds. of those works are able to sustain distinct cultural identity,” she says. “I think it is important as a society these ideals over time.” “It holds a special place in my to decide which of those exceptional Susan’s current work spans the heart – I get a thrill every time I enter places from the past we want to globe, from Egypt to China, Morocco the building or stand in the foyer keep in a more strategic way,” to South Africa. She’s assisting Jordan with a glass of champagne looking continues Susan. and Iraq to develop a web-based out over Sydney Harbour during the “We often leave it too late and system to manage cultural heritage intermission of a performance.” so are only having the discussion as sites for the national authorities, and For Kim, each new project brings the wrecking ball is about to swing. is developing techniques for historic its own special experience: “As New

That way we can conserve the best earthen buildings in Peru to cope York Philharmonic conductor Alan Conserving the future rather than what is left over.” with seismic movements. Gilbert said when asked which was But both agree that modern For Kim, the focus is on projects his favourite Beethoven symphony: architecture doesn’t have to mean in the US, including conservation ‘the one I’m conducting now’.” functional, practical and uninspiring of murals in the rotunda of the blocks of steel and cement. American Museum of Natural “The continuing evolution of History in New York. architecture and the decorative arts A highlight of Susan’s career was results in landmark-quality buildings her role as project director of the For more information on the Centre for each period,” argues Kim, who team that oversaw the addition of of Conservation Studies visit: worked on a project to refinish the the Sydney Opera House, perhaps www.york.ac.uk/archaeology. 57 interiors of Alvar Aalto’s Kaufmann the most celebrated piece of modern

esponsible for revolutionising children’s science writing, Nick Arnold author of the award-winning series of children’s science books, Horrible Science, graduated from York in 1984. Nick’s books are on Rsale in over 40 countries worldwide and have sold over 15 million copies. H rrible science An interview with alumnus Nick Arnold on his award-winning children’s science books

In 2009 Nick Arnold became the first I was offered one with a publisher scientific debate. A children’s children’s author ever to win the of children’s science books.” science writer should certainly prestigious science literacy award, the This job led to a ‘eureka not be ignorant.” Thompson Reuters Record Award for moment’ where Nick realised Nick believes it is “more Communicating Science. He has “just how interesting science of a challenge” for science transformed a subject previously was”. Soon he was commissioned academics to write for presented in children’s literature as a to write a children’s book called children. “To write for children list of dull facts to learn by heart, into Horrible Science. you have to put yourself an explosively colourful, entertaining Did Nick have any notion of just in their shoes. It’s difficult and, crucially, educational topic. how successful the Horrible Science for academics to remove Yet Nick did not study science at series was going to be? “I certainly themselves so far from the university. He graduated from York saw it as the beginning of my complexities of their subject with a degree in History and went on writing career,” he says, “but I never and do this.” to take a PhD in the same subject. imagined it would be so successful.” Nonetheless, Nick “As a child I was always interested He continues: “I’d dreamed confirms, “Every word I write in things that were dramatic and of being a writer since I was eight. about science is checked by gruesome,” he says, “so I gravitated Just being able to write was a a professional scientist.” towards studying history.” But, he reward. Any money or success that Nick believes his explains to grapevine, his interest came with it was a bonus.” presentation of science in science derives from his dad: Has Nick’s lack of training in as an entertaining literary “He was a doctor so indirectly I took the academic field of science ever genre should be reflected in an interest in medicine.” hindered him in his writing? the contemporary teaching He continues, “I had a natural “When you are writing science of science in schools. passion for books and writing for a younger audience it’s “If science is presented which my parents certainly didn’t surprisingly helpful not to have to kids as a series of discourage. When I was at York, if a science background,” he says. long words to learn, it I imagined myself writing books it “Because I’m learning myself will not be attractive to was as a writer of history books.” whilst I’m writing a science them,” he says. How then, precisely, has Nick ended book, I gain a unique insight into “The crucial thing up as the author of an internationally science that helps me communicate about science education selling empire of science literature? it in a clear andaccessible way for for the younger “By accident,” he suggests. young readers.” age group is to The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University “After I graduated I wanted to He continues: “Obviously I have a inspire children’s work in publishing but, like today, jobs good working knowledge of science imagination.”

58 were scarce. After a while searching, and can certainly hold my own in a Nick believes that

if children are inspired by science “Because I’m learning myself whilst I’m at a young age, they will want to learn more. This, he says, “will writing a science book, it helps me certainly create strong science departments in schools. The best communicate science in a clear and teachers understand this. I’ve seen this method of teaching implemented accessible way for young readers” and it does work.” Nick’s work also extends to teaching science in schools, children’s science education. China and Horrible Science was very and although not a scientist “Children’s science writing is popular there,” he says. by profession, he has attained often regarded as being outside He continues, “China is a vast respect from the academic science what science is all about; not a country which is changing very fast. community for his work. serious topic,” he says. My book is about global warming… He recently became the first “This award demonstrates the information and characters children’s science author ever to recognition of how important are designed to appeal to Chinese win the ultimate science literacy children’s science is and how crucial readers and I hope it will have an award, the Thompson Reuters Record it is to keep talking about science to impact in the future.” Award for Communicating Science. keep it alive in the next generation.” Nick admits that a definite According to Nick, the award “meant So what are Nick’s future plans? achievement of his work has been the a great deal” to him because it Will he keep writing Horrible Science happiness it has brought to so many “was wonderful to be recognised or do new alternative projects lie children. He is “particular pleased” by practising scientists”. on the horizon? when he receives an email from a He believes the award also “I wouldn’t want to write hundreds scientist saying if it hadn’t been for his represents recognition of the of Horrible Science books,” he says. books they wouldn’t be in science now. importance of “The idea would be overloaded.” For a man with no formal education Instead he “would love to write in the sciences, who merely wanted history books for children”. to write books, Nick has done well and The next project on Nick’s he’s not finished yet. “I’ve travelled horizon is not aimed at a along the road but not gone as far as British audience. He is writing I want to go.” a Horrible Science book aimed “Writing,” according to Nick, at Chinese readers. “I was “is a road and a process, never the first British author to tour an aim in itself.” Horrible science

For more information on Nick and his books visit his interactive website at

www.nickarnold-website.com. 59 he University of York has a levels. The first four élite athletes long history of supporting were chosen from applications that sport at all levels, from came from sports ranging from TBritish University and Colleges skiing to lacrosse. There is no doubt that all have Sports competitions to benefited from the ability to compete inter‑college matches and of in high level competitions around course, the casual sportsman. the country as well as gaining access to support specific to their sport, Katherine Gracey and Louise Highton Historically, student élite athletes additional training and new equipment. have struggled, unaided, to balance academic challenges with the Katherine Gracey (Physics, 2011) demands of their chosen sport. Katherine is an international fencer who Now, thanks to support from alumni has just returned from competing in the through the York Annual Fund, the Commonwealth Championships. University of York Sports Scholarship Katherine fences for the University team Programme has been created to and fences internationally for Northern enable these athletes to successfully Ireland with aspirations to compete for combine their academic and sporting Great Britain. Katherine is currently demands throughout their time ranked in the country’s top 50. at the University. This three-year pilot programme, Louise Highton which launched in 2010/11, provides (current Medical student) Charlotte Austwick support tailored to the needs of the Louise is an international fencer who individual, providing financial support has competed for Great Britain Juniors. for equipment, injury treatment, Louise fences for the University team Charlotte Austwick coaching and competition expenses. and has aspirations to move up to the (current Accounting, Business There is also a support team headed by Great Britain Senior Team. Finance and Management student) a performance manager, who can help Charlotte is a golfer who has desires them achieve their sporting goals. David Tee (current Chemistry student) to turn professional on completion To qualify for the award of a Sports David is an international skier and of her studies. Charlotte finished Scholarship athletes had to show they a member of the England Alpine Ski second in the English Girls had competed at junior international Team. David has won numerous Championships and was the top level at their chosen sport and junior titles and is a member of the English player in the recent Ladies have a desire to progress to higher University ski team. Junior Open in Scotland.

Sporat Yortk The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University Elite Athlete Sports

60 Student David Tee in action Scholarship Programme The key to success Interview with… Sam Asfahani, SU Sport President By Hannah Clugston (current English student)

nderneath an American students. “We had over 1,500 people football kit, stationery, there; it showed to me how much sheets of paper, photos people do actually get behind sport at Uand newspaper clippings, key moments. That was a great event and people turned out en masse to I find Sam Asfahani, sitting in support our boys in the rugby.” the midst of the mess and This year’s Roses victory also also success. sits comfortably in a stream of achievement by York’s sports teams. He’s done it all, but instead of hanging “We’ve had a really successful year. up his shoes, Sam has taken on the Our clubs have performed brilliantly role of President of York Sport for over the season and carried it another year. What could have through to Roses,” he says. induced him to do that? Although the Roses trophy is He explains: “The thing I found safely back in York, Sam still has hardest is that so much you want to plenty of work to do. The University is do in the Students’ Union takes more currently building a major £9m sports than a year, and I’d started a lot of development called York Sports Village Sam with Chancellor Greg Dyke, accepting things that I wanted to see finished. I and Sam is working with the University the Roses Cup was very happy with what we’d done to make sure it opens on schedule so far, but I wanted to make sure other in summer 2012. “The SU and the projects were completed. And to be University are working hard to ensure students can enjoy York Sport free of honest, I love the job! Out of all the that the clubs get what they want and charge, all while improving current jobs in the SU, being President of York that this sporting provision is the best training and drawing students Sport is the one where you really get it can be. Whether it’s by reducing into new sports, “We’re trying to to engage with students the most. costs, improving facilities or increasing implement a coaching network so Every Wednesday afternoon and support, current projects and those that we can improve the quality of every Wednesday night, I am training in the pipeline, will revolutionise our things like college sports. That way with the clubs and going down to the sporting environment,” says Sam. we can encourage people to try out college sport events. The nature of the Asking him to describe the new York new sports and get proper coaching role means you are talking to students Sports Village is like asking a child about to increase participation.” pretty much non-stop and I didn’t Disneyland: “The biggest thing is going So what’s his secret? Why does really want to lose that aspect.” to be the swimming pool. It’ll be the Sam continue to succeed in his role? It is clear that his passion for first time in our history that we have “I think the biggest thing you need is the job runs parallel with this year’s one. It means four or five of our clubs approachability. Understanding that triumph by the University of York at the will be able to come back onto campus every club is different as well, there’s annual sporting battle with Lancaster and means we can encourage more no blanket answer to all of them. And University, the Roses. “What I’m people to take up water sports because experience, I don’t think you could do proudest of is organising the Roses they don’t have to travel so far.” this job without having already run a Sport at York rugby match to take place at the The development will also feature a sports club yourself, because in the end home of rugby league team, York City 100-station gym, three further five-a- you’re trying to command the respect Knights. That’s something we’ve been side pitches and a full-size 3G astroturf of 60 presidents,” he concludes. working on for two and a half years pitch, something Sam promised when With his three keys to success, now, he says.” he first ran for President of York Sport. approachability, understanding and Sam is still humble, even in this “It’s going to completely revolutionise experience, where will Sam go once overt admission of pride, attributing sport at York,” he says. his second term is through? On to 61 the stadium sell-out to the support of From 2012 Sam has also ensured sport of course! Managing angina York research group gets to the heart of the matter The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 62 ramatic results have realistic aims about introducing been achieved in health improving behaviours in their rehabilitation programmes lives, such as a more active lifestyle, Ddevised by York Cardiac Care better diet and deeper understanding of their condition for themselves and Research Group to help patients their carers. improve their diet and lifestyle, Heart disease affects an and slow the progression of estimated 2.6 million people in coronary disease. the UK. In response to demographic changes and the growing burden A recent review conducted by of chronic diseases associated with Professor Bob Lewin of York’s a western lifestyle, governments Department of Health Sciences around the world have started found that over 5,000 more patients to focus on improving patients’ received cardiac rehabilitation in self‑management of their illness. 2008 than in the previous two years. As a result of this growing trend This increase is due to a large degree towards self-management, the to the research group’s combined research group is involved in both efforts to both raise patient awareness primary research and advising about this service, and to help monitor and supporting developments at the cardiac rehabilitation levels national and international levels. of service through the annual audit Working closely with the British Professor Bob Lewin and resulting report. Heart Foundation which is funding a The group plays a leading role in large part of the research, the group developing rehabilitation programmes has developed and evaluated chronic for cardiac diseases. The Angina “Our group’s main disease management interventions Plan, a home-based rehabilitation focus is to develop through randomised controlled trials. programme, is now running across For example, another member of the UK and is promoted through and evaluate the research group, Jill Pattenden, NHS hospitals, GP surgeries and clinics. is supervising two British Heart The programme includes a self-help methods of helping Foundation project evaluations. goal-setting manual for patients patients change The first, Heart Matters, is an online and the distance training of nursing lifestyle check programme which aims staff to support them as facilitators. their lifestyle, to support people in adopting healthy The Angina Plan is currently used in behaviour. Over 19,000 people have 63 NHS facilities, ranging from primary achieve effective registered online and completed the care clinics to rapid access chest pain check since January 2010. The second clinics, and around 1,000 facilitators self‑management evaluation, Hearty Lives, is a major are now employed on the project. of their illness and British Heart Foundation programme, York research group A randomised controlled trial designed to reduce health inequalities conducted among 142 patients with reduce their risk of in 11 deprived areas of Britain. newly diagnosed angina, compared The research group also runs gets to the heart of the self-managed Angina Plan future heart disease” the National Audit of Cardiac with a routine, practice nurse-led Rehabilitation, linking the majority of educational session. Patients following the cardiac rehabilitation programmes the matter the Angina Plan were found to have in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 43% fewer angina episodes as well disease management and health in a patient-level audit of processes as a reduction in symptoms, including behaviour change, Professor and outcomes. It shows locally and anxiety and depression. Lewin, who leads the British Heart nationally what these services are As a result of the study, Foundation Care and Education achieving and identifies any problems the Angina Plan is now included Research Group, has a unique of inequitable provision for particular in the clinical pathway for the approach to developing effective sections of the population. management of stable angina, self‑management programmes. According to Professor Lewin, Managing Angina set by the Scottish Intercollegiate “Our group’s main focus is to “Using our data the British Heart Guideline Network (SIGN). It is develop and evaluate methods of Foundation has campaigned very also referred to in the European helping patients change their lifestyle, successfully to bring an awareness guidelines for the management achieve effective self-management of the problems of provision to of stable angina as a programme of their illness and reduce their risk Parliament and the Department shown to improve outcomes. of future heart disease,” he says. of Health, resulting in a number As a clinical psychologist Through various booklets, manuals of actions at the policy level; our

with expertise in cognitive- and multimedia monitoring tools audit will be able to record if any 63 behavioural treatments, chronic patients are encouraged to set improvements reach the patients.” Alumni publications Jeffrey Rozelaar (History and Politics, Dr Michael Thomas (Chemical Dr Jonathan Davies (Public 1966) Ticket to Yesterday Education, Alcuin, 1981) Lorica Administration and Public Policy, Segmentata, a Catalogue of Finds Langwith,1996) Critical Urban Studies

Dr John Charlton (History and Politics, Derwent, 1970) Don’t you hear the Dr Sean Gabb (History, Alcuin, 1982) Simon Swift (Philosophy and Politics, H Bomb’s Thunder? Blood of Alexandria Vanbrugh, 1996) Black Shadows

Juliet Ash (English, Langwith, 1971) Jonathan Crichton (Philosophy, Dr Alessandro Ferrara (Economics, Dress Behind Bars: Prison Clothing Wentworth, 1983) The Discourse Alcuin, 1997) Controlling Shadow as Criminality of Commercialisation and Prices in Multi-Level Government Discourses of Deficit

Jane Brooke (Sociology and Economic Matthew Reed (Politics, Goodricke, History, Vanbrugh,1972) A Darker Night Nicola Baird (Politics, Derwent, 1986) 2002) The Bad Boys of Cricket Homemade Kids: thrifty, creative and eco-friendly ways to raise children

Dr Iain Edgar (Philosophy, Alcuin, 1970) Craig Fox (History and Politics, The Dream in Islam: from Qur’anic Wentworth, 2004) Everyday Klansfolk: Interpretation to Jihadist Inspiration Dr Paul (Oz) Hardwick, (English and Art, White Protestant Life and the KKK Langwith, 1992) English Misericords: in 1920s Michigan The Margins of Meaning

Dr John Heeley (Sociology, 1972) York: a premier league European Anna Piela (Women’s Studies, tourist destination? Dr Catherine Davis (Housing Studies, Wentworth, 2010) Muslim Women Goodricke, 1993) Housing: did it have Online: Faith and Identity in to be like this? A socialist critique of Virtual World New Labour’s performance Roger Boyle (Mathematics, Alcuin, 1975) ISE Image Processing, Analysis and Machine Vision Ruth Eastham (Chemistry, Langwith, 1993) The Memory Cage

Rama Kant Agnihotri (Linguistics, Vanbrugh,1979) Problematising Language Studies – Cultural, Elizabeth Evenden (English, Goodricke, Theoretical and Applied Perspectives: 1994) Religion and the Book in Early essays in honor of Rama Kant Agnihotri Modern England: The Making of John Foxe’s ‘Book of Martyrs’

Ms Anna Halager (Linguistics, Vanbrugh,1981) Volume I: Andersen, Dr David Severs (History, Goodricke, Publications included on this Hans Christian: Shadow Pictures from 1994) Bedale’s Clockmakers page have been submitted by a Journey to the Harz Mountains, alumni during 2010/11 and Saxon Switzerland are listed by graduation year. Visit www.YorkSpace.net/ alumni-in-print for full details on all on the alumni books listed The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University here and for details on how to submit your own publication.

64 Key: Fiction Non-fiction Autobiography Reference Poetry Alumni notices and news Professional Networks launch dates Congratulations to… You may have read about our new Professional Networks programme on page 19. The launch of the initial three networks takes place in November – visit Sara Davies (née Johnson) www.YorkSpace.net/profnetworks for further details. The initial three (Management, Derwent, 2006) networks include the following sectors: who won the Ernst & Young Emerging Entrepreneur of the • Finance, Management and Law (including banking, politics and business) Year 2010 for her business held at PriceWaterhouseCoopers on 28 November Crafters Companion. • Media, Journalism and PR (including television, performance and broadcasting) held at BAFTA on 22 November Toby Sharp (Mathematics, • Third Sector (including charities, voluntary and non-profit organisations Goodricke, 1996) from the and social enterprises) held at The King’s Place on 14 November Microsoft Research Cambridge To express your interest in attending, visit www.YorkSpace.net/events. team who has won the Royal Academy of Engineering Careers–call for alumni support MacRobert Award. Dr Andrea Saenz-Arroyo The Careers Service would love to hear from you if you are currently working in (Environmental Economics and any of the following sectors and would like to take part in our networking events Management, Vanbrugh, 2005) to support current students in their career planning: who has been selected as a recipient of a 2011 Pew Fellowship • Politics – February 2012 in Marine Conservation, which is • Life Sciences – March 2012 annually awarded to outstanding • Publishing and Journalism – March 2012 global leaders who are working to • Third Sector – May 2012 preserve and protect the world’s • Advertising, Marketing and PR – May 2012 oceans and marine species.

If you are interested, or would like to find out more, please contact Joanna Moody (PhD English [email protected]. Literature, Langwith, 1990) who was one of three editors awarded the Ezra Pound Society Book Prize by the prestigious Thank you to… Ezra Pound Society of America 2011 for Ezra Pound to his Lesley Wild, Chairman of Bettys Parents: Letters 1895 – 1929. & Taylors, who kindly hosted a recent event for alumni and friends in Bettys Thomas Ransley (History of Art, Café Tea Rooms. The event was followed Halifax, 2007) – who has retained by a networking event at the Biltmore his place in the Great Britain eight Bar in York which was well received by rowing team. over 70 local alumni. The next York event will take place in late October. Look out for your invite to an alumni event Julia Deakin (English with

near you as we will be hosting further alumni city group events throughout Alumni notices and news Educational Studies, Langwith, 2011/12. Visit www.YorkSpace.net/events for further details. 1976) who has won the 2011 Yorkshire Open Poetry Competition. Julia hopes to Apologies to… publish her second full-length collection later in 2011. John Scott (English Literature, Alcuin, 1993) who featured in the last issue of grapevine in the article ‘University days’, about his book University at Last! We accidentally referenced the wrong course, college and year.

If you have any queries, please contact [email protected] or call +44 (0)1904 32 2680 for more information. 65 On the grapevine

Alumni memories and career updates

lease send your entries to 1970 1971 [email protected] or Peter Burley (History, Langwith) Ken Wild OBE (Mathematics, Langwith) complete the contribution Since the last entry I have been 2010 was an interesting year! Having Pon the YAA update form to appointed a magistrate and a Trustee reached a certain age in 2009, I retired of the Battlefields Trust (www. as a partner of Deloitte, where I spent feature and return via post or battlefieldstrust.com). I am also 30 years in the specialist accounting visit www.YorkSpace.net/ working for a variety of health technical group, heading it up, first on onthegv to submit your news regulators. I am still using my degree, a UK basis, and latterly globally. Both online or read entries in full. writing and researching on the Wars of Jo (née Wolf) (PGCE, Wentworth, 1973) the Roses. The current big project is on and I were looking forward to further the battle of Barnet (1471), so if any travel (having holidayed extensively alumni live there and are interested in Asia, Africa and Latin America). we would love to hear from them. I also wanted to give more to my 1967 The kids have left home and are school governor role and seek further Philip Pughe-Morgan (History and developing careers with health charity involvement. I accepted a Social Sciences, Derwent) charities. We have a cliff-top cottage Fellowship at the Judge Business I have just been visiting the alumni sleeping eight in Port Isaac (North School, part of Cambridge University, website, and have admired your Cornwall) and would welcome any teaching two full days a week, fitted excellent page on the Roses direct approaches out of season around a three-week trip to India. tournament and its history. I know it’s (Google ‘Lower Garrick’). The London November brought a pleasant surprise water long gone under the bridge (!), Alumni Group is thriving and I have when Accountancy Age gave me the but I noted the comment that Lord organised several events for them Outstanding Career Contribution James instituted the first Roses including a sell-out talk by Award at its annual awards ceremony. competition in 1965, when York and Linda Porter on Katherine Parr. The year was topped by an OBE in Lancaster rowed on the Ouse. I know, the New Year’s Honours List. I was there, in fact I stroked the York four (we didn’t have eights in those 1970 days). We lost, unfortunately, but it’s Margaret Deacon (Economics 1972 great to know that the competition and Statistics, Langwith) Peter Seymour (Music) grew and extended, and that York has I have retired and now live in Yorkshire Baroque Soloists’ been so successful down the years. Stow-on-the-Wold, which is a lovely recording of Bach’s St John Passion and friendly place. After a very busy has just been released by Signum working life, I am really enjoying Records (SIGCD209). Email Peter 1969 having time for hobbies and getting directly at [email protected] to Roger Devenish (English) involved in local organisations – but purchase a copy. who passed away in even more for my increasing gang December 2010 in Salisbury of grandchildren. after a bicycle accident. 1973 Richard Hadfield (Chemistry and Education, Alcuin) Richard Hadfield and Deborah Hartley retired from teaching in December The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University 2010 and are now living in Leeds. 66 www.YorkSpace.net/onthegv

1973 1978 1980 Prudhisan Jumbala Stephen Flynn (Economics, Langwith) Diana Toolan (née Davies) (Sociology, Vanbrugh) After York I went on to Durham to (Economics and Politics, Derwent) As life comes nearly full circle, it would complete an MSc, where I met Anne, I have recently renewed my contact be good to hear from Simon Smelt now my wife. Since then I have with York because my son is now (Sociology, 1973), Fred Johnson worked in Human Resources – the last family Yorkie no 2 (Dominic Toolan, (Sociology, 1973), Evelio Cabrejo Para, 12 years as an HR Director. We live in Mathematics, Vanburgh). Together Alison Henry (Language, Vanbrugh, Bedfordshire with our son Dominic. with my husband Terry we dropped 1975), and Jane Cooper of the group him off on a beautiful Autumn day in that shopped around the colleges for October and wandered round to our dinners in 1971/72. 1978 Derwent B block to find it looking Dr Margaret Steele (Medieval Studies) exactly the same and a party in full I registered at Oxford University after swing on the lawn. If only I could have 1975 I retired from teaching in 1982. moved straight back in! I work in Sue Griffiths (née Grimsey) I received a PhD from Oxford in 1994 education (BTEC and Edexcel (Politics and Sociology, Alcuin, when I was 70 (again in Medieval qualifications) and have two other 1975) who died in May 2011 aged Studies). A copy of my thesis is in children – Gilbert (Surrey, Economics) 57, three years after a diagnosis the British Museum Library: A study and Rosa (taking A levels) – and live in of extensive cancer. After her of the books owned or used by the shadow of the Wembley stadium degree, Sue lived first in London John Grandisson, Bishop of Exeter arch. Visit www.YorkSpace.net/ and then Sevenoaks, Kent. She (1327–1369). memories to read Diana’s full entry. married David in 1978 and had four daughters of whom Helen too was a York student. Sue was 1979 1982 active and much loved in her Dr David Keeffe (Music, Vanbrugh) Dr Sean Gabb (History, Alcuin) community as guide leader, As perhaps one of the few students I have four books to be published in fundraiser and music maker. who did a BA in Music (1979) and 2011 – Blood of Alexandria, Sword of She will be much missed by her then a DPhil in Computer Science Damascus (both under the name university friends for her (1984), I turned full circle and Richard Blake), The Churchill cheerful, straightforward and recently graduated with an MMus Memorandum and A Manifesto for positive approach to life, in composition from the University Reaction, under my own name. demonstrated recent of Melbourne, Australia. It’s been The first three, I hope, will make me reunion weekends. quite a journey! richer. The fourth, I hope, will upset all the people I dislike. On the grapevine 1978 Penelope Florence (English) Currently Professor Emeritus at the Slade School of Fine Art UCL, and working in the USA. In the UK, I felt that retirement was (g)looming, but then this opportunity in California came up, and I have a new career here at 62. Terrific! 67 1984 1989 1995 Jacqui Kershaw née Clarke Simon Sweeney (Linguistics James Rollin (Economics (Sociology and Politics, and English, Wentworth) and Social History, Goodricke) Wentworth) I joined the York Management School Emma and I are pleased to as a lecturer in International Political announce the safe arrival of our baby Economy and Business in January son, Tom Geoffrey David Rollin, who 2011. Formerly employed at Sheffield was born on 14 February 2011, Hallam and York St John, I’ve had weighing 9 pounds 6 ounces. a long association with York as an James and Emma Rollin. Associate Lecturer and I’m very happy to work full time at the university where I had such a wonderful postgraduate experience over 20 years ago. Meanwhile I’m still researching a PhD at Leeds on European Security and Defence Policy.

1991 Jacqui died in April 2010 after a Rupe Bayfield (Mathematics, Derwent) short battle with cancer. Helen Lived in Edinburgh for 18 years, Gallagher (Politics and Sociology, happily married with three daughters! Wentworth, 1984) – her close Set up my own recruitment business 1997 friend from York days and over – CyberTeam – in 2004, and have Mark DeBacker (Archaeology, Alcuin) the past 30 years, spoke at her enjoyed growing that. Currently Emily De Backer and I are happy to funeral, describing ‘Clarkey’ as recovering from neurosurgery for a announce the arrival of our second “funny, irreverent, feisty and brain tumour and other cancer surgery child, Abigail Olivia Rose. She is a sister brave, with an Irish twinkle – – desperate to get back on the beer to Ethan, who is now two years old. a real dancing queen”. Many and cudge! Would love to hear from University friends attended any of the old crowd! Jacqui’s funeral, where she 1997 was remembered as “one of Lucie Guilbert the brightest lights at York – 1992 (Archaeology, Vanbrugh) a genuinely friendly, funny and Dr Paul Hardwick (English and I have been a zoo manager, prison loving person”. Jacqui leaves Art, Langwith) officer, shepherd, castle keeper and behind her two sons, Conor My third collection of poetry, youth housing project worker. Now and Daniel. The Illuminated Dreamer, has now returning to outdoor work again at been published. Since my last Lee Abbey, an international Christian collection, Carrying Fire, I have read community, for a year in North Devon. 1989 in all manner of interesting places, Martin Miles (Electronics and Electrical including Glastonbury Festival Engineering, Langwith) (twice) and, earlier this year, 1997 Recently I returned to Uni to get a first a series of universities, libraries Lutfey Siddiqi (Economics and in Architecture. I’m now a research and cafes in the US. Econometrics, Goodricke) assistant for the University of I’m currently employed with the Glamorgan looking into the Hydrogen Swiss bank UBS as a Managing Director Economy and happily living in Cardiff. 1993 and also serve as an Associate This time I’ll get a PhD! Susan Dawson (Mathematics, Alcuin) Professor (Adjunct) at the National After graduating I took a PGCE course University of Singapore. at Nottingham then I worked in a few different jobs and relocated to West Yorkshire for several years. Now I’m 1998 back in my home town of Lincoln Ceiri Torjussen (Music, Alcuin) and I have set up my own business I now work as a freelance music focusing on fun and uplifting gifts composer for Hollywood feature films, under the guise of Cheer Boxes TV, animation and commercials. and can be found online at www. I moved to Los Angeles when I came cheerboxes.co.uk . It is in the early to study for a Masters and have lived stages but so far working for myself is here ever since. I now have a Green The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University far more fun than working for others, Card. There is an extensive CV on the drawback is that there is only me my website at www.ceiri.com.

68 here the office parties are a bit quiet! 1999 award-winning publication’s features 2001 editor. Romance blossomed; Jonathan Elizabeth Kendall (English, Vanbrugh) proposed two years later (at the Blue I am now a fully qualified Shiatsu Bicycle in York) and they were married practitioner on the Complementary in London on 18 September, 2010. and Natural Healthcare Council register. As the photo shows, 18 fellow York I live and work in Surrey, giving graduates were among the guests for treatments at Optima Health in their special day, with Jonathan’s Cobham and the Oatlands Park Hotel speech including a somewhat in Weybridge. I’m happy to give York unconventional wedding toast – to the alumni a discount! I try to visit York University of York! Chris Miller acted as every year or so and am looking an usher, while Louisa McLennan gave forward to a summer trip to catch a reading, with the full list of York up with uni friends (and stock up graduates in the photo being: on bread from Via Vecchia). Matthew Stallabrass (Vanbrugh, History, 1998), Stuart Anson (Economics, Langwith, 1999), 2001 Duncan Flynn (History, James, 2002), Vincent Mellor (Mathematics, James) Khalid Shahjahan (Biology with Chris Miller (Economics and Politics, Since leaving York in 2003 after my MSc, Education, Langwith) and Langwith, 2000), Gareth Knight I have moved to Australia and completed Gemma Shahjahan (née Priestley) (Politics, Alcuin, 2000), Paul a PhD in Mathematics at the University (English Language and Linguistics, Goodman (English, Langwith,1981), of Queensland. The topic of my research Goodricke, 2001) Dylan Whitfield (Chemistry, Derwent, was ‘Numerical Simulations of the Ising Solicitor and Partner, Khalid and his 2000), Helen Whitfield (née model on the Union Jack Lattice’. I have wife, Business Development Manager, Wainwright) (Chemistry, Derwent, also presented the work at the XXIV Gemma are delighted to announce 2000), Nick Littlewood (History, International Conference on Statistical that their household has been Langwith, 1997), Jenny Littlewood Physics of the International Union for extended by another two feet! (née Hulbert) (Maths, Langwith, Pure and Applied Physics in Cairns At 12:59pm on the 26 of June 2011, 2000), Gareth Williams (Political and the Australian Mathematical Society 8lb 8oz Zara Elisabeth Esmé Shahjahan Philosophy, Derwent, 1998), Graham meeting in Brisbane. Currently I am finally made her grand debut. Parents McMillan (Politics, Langwith, 1998), preparing a paper on the research and are hoping she will follow in their Louisa McLennan (Philosophy and working out the next challenge. footsteps and become a graduate Politics, Derwent, 1999), Julie Knox of the University of York but watch (English, Goodricke, 1999), Rajini this space. Vaidyanathan (Philosophy, Politics 2001 and Economics, James, 2000), Nicola Gemma Shahjahan (née Priestley) Sleat (née Bates) (Politics, Alcuin, (English Language and 1999 2002), Jaime Graham (Experimental Linguistics, Goodricke) Physics, Goodricke,1995), Sara See Khalid Shahjahan (Biology Nuwar (History, Derwent, 1998), Rajini with Education, Langwith, 1999) Vaidyanathan (Philosophy, Politics and Economics, James, 2000), Nicola Sleat (née Bates) (Politics, Alcuin, 2002), 2002 Jaime Graham (Experimental Physics, Harriet Hughes (née Rowlandson) Goodricke, 1995), Sara Nuwar (History, (Psychology, James) See Simon Hughes Derwent, 1998). (Biology, James, 2004)

2000 2003 Elizabeth Moore (née Roberts) Alexandra Hughes (History, Alcuin) (Sociology and Economic Gareth (Politics, Alcuin, 2003) and History, James) Alex Hughes (née Plant) (History, Alcuin, On the grapevine Jonathan Isaby (Language and I married Matthew in September 2010, 2003) married in May 2010. They were Linguistics, Wentworth) and Claudia with a couple of my closest fellow delighted to have several former York Isaby (née Stern) (English Literature, York graduates present, and alumni in attendance, including Wentworth, 2008) Matthew’s friends from St Andrews. Laura Pilgrim (Politics, Alcuin, 2003) In June 2007, former Vision deputy We’re living in our beloved North East. Thomas Bray (Electronics, Alcuin, 2004), editor Jonathan returned to York for Since graduating I’ve worked in Andy Barker (Chemistry, Alcuin, 2003), a party to mark the newspaper’s information management in the Julia Grant (History, Alcuin, 2003) 20th anniversary, where he met education sector, currently working Tony Coupland (Computer Science Claudia, who was then serving as the for the Open University in the North, and Mathematics, Langwith, 2004) 69 which is wonderful. and Juli Coupland (Computer Science, Halifax, 2004). 2003 2004 2007 Edwin Beasant (Electronic Simon Hughes (Biology, James) Charlotte Bilsland (History, Langwith) Engineering with Music Technology Simon and Harriet (née Rowlandson) I would like to congratulate my lovely Systems, James) See Lucy Wright (Psychology, James, 2002) met friends Thomas Oldershaw (English (Art History, Halifax, 2006) in James College in 2001 across Language and Linguistics, Langwith, a romantic James quad. They 2007) and Jane Lloyd (English, married on 28 December 2009 Langwith) on their recent marriage. 2004 in Binsted, Surrey. They now live Jane came over for two terms in James Alexander (Langwith, Politics and work in Geneva and eat a little 2008 from the University of and Economic and Social History) too much cheese. Michigan on an American exchange Since I left in 2004 I have been programme. They have been together Students’ Union President, a campaigns since Jane arrived and have managed manager for the Labour Party, a Labour to maintain a long-distance Councillor for Holgate in York, worked relationship between the UK and at York St John and stood in the 2010 America before finally getting married general election. I have recently been in September 2010 in Michigan. elected Leader of City of York Council and am the youngest council leader in This was a truly Langwith A Block the country at the age of 29. wedding with six other members of Langwith A Block being bridesmaids and groomsmen! This is a message 2005 to anyone that long-distance Jonathan Bufton (Politics and relationships can work and that true Sociology, Derwent) and Kate love really does exist – Tom and Jane, Rushworth (Politics, Halifax) I am so happy you are finally together Although we both studied Politics at last and can’t wait for the next we didn’t get to know each other reunion. Congratulations! until January 2004 as members of YSTV. Love blossomed in front of and behind the cameras and we started going out 2006 in the summer of that year, and have Jessica Roy (History and Politics, been together ever since. We got James) Getting married to fellow engaged in June 2011 during a holiday York alumnus, Ben Pickett (Politics, to New York, appropriately enough! Derwent , 2005) with Best Man, We now live in London, where Kate Andrew Whittingham (History, works for BBC Worldwide and Jonathan Derwent, 2005) and two of my for ITV. We plan to marry in Spring 2013. three bridesmaids also York graduates: Charlotte Mason (née Edy) (History, James, 2006) and Susan Allen 2006 (History of Art, Halifax, 2006).

2007 Liam Wright (English and Philosophy, Halifax) I set up my own media company in Manchester, Banter Media, which is 2008 Lucy Wright (Art History, Halifax) starting to grow. Banter Media can Claudia Isaby (née Stern) (English and Edwin Beasant (Electronic help with all of your media needs and Literature, Wentworth). See Jonathan Engineering with Music Technology thus we strive for our clients to rely Isaby (Language and Linguistics, Systems, James, 2003) on us for all of their digital and print Wentworth, 1999). needs. Visit www.bantermedia.com Our new band, Pilgrims’ Way, released for details. its debut album on the Fellside label in July 2011, and featured in an interview on the Mike Harding Show for BBC Radio 2. We were both very involved in music during our time at York – Edwin was part of the Woodstock headlining band, The University of York Magazine for Alumni and Friends of The University The 14, and I was co-founder of the York University Folk Club society. 70 In memoriam… Raymond Burton CBE (1917 to 2011) Raymond Burton, who passed away There are too many examples in Febuary aged 93, led the modern of his extensive generosity, at development of the high-street home and abroad, to enumerate. clothing chain founded by his father The University’s recognition of his Sir Montague Burton, and was a long-term support was expressed in generous benefactor of the Jewish the award of an honorary doctorate in Museum in London and the the millennium awards in 2000, and University of York. of the Morrell Fellowship in 2007, an Raymond had been a supporter award which recognises outstanding of the University since its foundation, contributions to the University. indeed his £2m gift back in the 1990s Through his outstanding led to the creation of the Raymond generosity to libraries and museums, Burton Library for Humanities his name will forever be recognised Research, and over the years he has in the University, as a witness to his quietly sponsored concerts and the support for the civilised and humane Centre for Eighteenth Century Studies virtues of knowledge, freedom and and made other donations. social justice.

Lord Harewood (1923 to 2011) George Lascelles, the 7th Earl of the Heslington campus in 1965. Harewood, who passed away in After stepping down as Chancellor, July 2011, was the first Chancellor of Lord Harewood remained involved the University of York, from 1963 to and interested in the life and 1967. Active in local and national work of the University. During an musical and sporting life, and a inventory of Harewood House, a significant local landowner, he played number of documents relating to a key role in the early years of the the slave-owning history of the University’s life and enjoyed a close Lascelles family were discovered. working relationship with the first Lord Harewood deposited this Vice-Chancellor, Lord James. archive in the University’s Borthwick Lord Harewood was active in Institute and gave his support to a fundraising for the University’s major research project to conserve Department of Music from its and investigate the papers. He also inception – his contacts leading to donated his unique collection of major benefactions for performance broadcast recordings by the leading space and instruments. In the 1960s, classical performers of the 20th he presided over the University’s first century. His support and gifts will graduation ceremonies and escorted always be valued and his legacy lives the Queen round the first buildings of on at the University today.

Stafffondly remembered

Julie Hirst (Women’s Studies, 2003) international reputation. Bill’s last January 2011 after a long illness. Keith passed away from cancer, shortly piece on campus, ‘Aspiration’, is an was appointed lecturer in Politics in before Christmas 2010. 18-foot chainsaw carving created 1963 and remained at York until his Obituaries Julie worked in the Equality and from an old oak tree. retirement in 2003. Diversity Office at the University Joyce Guy passed away in Philip Rahtz, founding Professor as one of its co-ordinators. October, 2010. She was a lecturer of the Department of Archaeology, Bill Hodgson, died in April in Social Work in the Department passed away in June 2011. 2011. He was Clerk of Works at of Social Administration and Dr Peter Hanson, a founder member the University for the decade of Social Work from 1966 to 1972. of the Department of Chemistry, who

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