Issue 17 | Michaelmas Term 2013 BrazenNotes From the

On 20 September we were privileged to have David Cameron (PPE, 1985) officially open our new kitchen and dining facilities, the result of our Quincentennial Renovations, Project Q.

The Prime Minister addressed the growing success of British Universities, the importance of philanthropy and his love of Brasenose in a speech to 150 College members in Old Quad, before adjourning for a drinks reception in the 1 David Cameron visits Brasenose, 20 September 2013 SCR, stopping to talk to our students on the way. I believe his sentiments would have touched everybody in attendance when he said,’…every On the subject of Classics, two Brasenose Ninety-five finalists survived the last winter, time I come back to Brasenose College I have only Classicists, with outstanding but very different however, and emerged from the Schools with one request which is that I could start my three claims to distinction have also been remembered in an excellent set of results, once again: 33 years here all over again, as they were some of the appropriate ways in the summer of 2013. Maurice firsts, 56 upper seconds and 6 lower seconds happiest and most interesting moments that I’ve Platnauer was Fellow in Classics (a.k.a. ‘Mods – congratulations to all of them! One or two spent. I think it was here that I really learnt who Tutor’) from 1922-56 and Principal from 1956- individual results can have a dramatic effect on the I was and what I wanted to do, and the brilliant 60 and is remembered with great affection and notorious table of college rankings, in which we teaching that you get here, the fantastic tuition, the respect by those who knew him. We have long were this year very satisfactorily placed seventh. one-on-one attention is just a remarkable thing…’. had a drawing of him by his friend Stanley Spencer which hangs in the SCR. Thanks to the initiative of Many of them proceeded to a much-changed This visit was happily marked by another cause Robin Sharp (Lit Hum, 1953), almost 50 generous (imagine that in Oxford!) graduation ceremony. for celebration - the completion of our recent donors contributed to a fund which commissioned Each college now has a single date in the Classics Campaign. This has enabled us to endow a portrait in oils by the Marlborough artist Juliet Sheldonian for the graduation of its undergraduates a Fellowship, which will permanently ensure the Wood. This was unveiled on 9 August at a ceremony and on 2 August we duly erected a marquee in future of Classics teaching at BNC. We are proud in the Hall (where it will in due course be hung, New Quad, in which we entertained the students of this result and particularly grateful to those accompanied by a eulogy in Greek verse composed and their families to drinks and canapés after the who generously supported the campaign, without by Colin Leach (Lit Hum, 1951) ),attended by many ceremony. whom this outcome could not have been achieved. of the donors and others who knew Platnauer. Other kinds of change are only to be expected. I Graham Richards drew my attention to a biography highlight one, as in the course of the summer we of Cuthbert Ottaway (Classical Mods, 1870), a saw the retirement of Pat Spight, for 24 years the Features King’s Scholar at Eton who came up to Brasenose Principal’s Secretary and then Fellows’ Secretary. in 1870. He captained the England team in the first We thank Pat and all the other members of Michael Palin Exclusive...... Page 6 ever international football match against Scotland Brasenose staff who have left us this year and wish BNC air on University Challenge...... Page 7 in 1872. Ottaway went on to a career as a barrister them well for the future. but sadly died of pneumonia at the age of 28, after a England’s First Football Captain...... Page 8 night out dancing, perhaps a moral there for current Professor students (see page 8 for full feature). Principal

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Brasenose – and its beautiful library - is blessed in its location, at the heart of Radcliffe Square, adjacent to the famous Bodleian Library’s most iconic building, the Radcliffe Camera and the Church of St Mary the Virgin, where the Oxford martyrs were tried. We have grand plans for improving our library; we want to double the study space by extending down into the Old Cloisters. In the footsteps of Sir Thomas Bodley and Dr John Radcliffe, we hope our library will also carry the name of an individual who is able to transform it into a space of living, ongoing learning fit for the next 500 years.

The heart of this learning is students, undergraduate 1 Architect's first impression of the improved Library, which will be extended into the Old Cloisters. and postgraduate, who provide the life-blood of the college both now and in the future. The college supports many activities, but first and foremost 'This new library space will The voices of those that is academic excellence. Our improved library will use it… speak to the core of what Brasenose is for: a place consolidate and galvanize the where students come to read and think and learn. growing academic distinction James Norman, (2010, Classics), Student: ‘The library has acted as a second (and at times first!) This development is an opportunity to make of Brasenose’s students' home for me over the past three years; it is somewhere a striking contribution to Brasenose’s primary Professor Simon Palfrey, Tutor in English comfortable, friendly and familiar to spend late nights function: as a historic, world-class institution of and Fellow Librarian. and early mornings studying. Brasenose library is study and learning. The beautiful present Library without a doubt my favourite place to study in the was designed in the seventeenth century to house university, but work needs to be done to enable it to books which were chained in place for the twenty cope with the expanding and modernising demands of Fellows of the College. It comes as no surprise undergraduates.’ therefore that the same basic room today can no longer support the academic needs of the College. We also want to double the study space by Liz Kay, Librarian: extending down into the cloister beneath. 'We want the new Library to create a first class student resource that truly meets the needs of students today and We recognise that it may take time to get all the in the future. The new space will be flexible and adaptive, plans and finances in place but the College is firmly geared to the increasingly digitised nature of modern committed to this project, and hopes to enjoy its scholarship, but also sensitive to the fact that students new library by 2018. The expertise of unanimously relish working in environments that are inviting.’ appointed project architect and alumnus, Tim Lee (1990, History Modern) has reinforced our conviction that we will achieve our vision: a very special place, Professor Simon Palfrey, Tutor in English and and specifically a very ‘Brasenose’ place. Fellow Librarian: 'It is fundamentally the students’ space and thus true to the basic ethos of Oxford education, in which students are encouraged fearlessly to explore possibilities, to show initiative and develop intellectual independence. It will be a suitably modern place - just as Oxford education is grounded in tutorials as much as books, so too reading, writing, and thinking are not always best experienced in frigid silence.

In both its functions and its situation, this will Brasenose College main Library, 2013 1 become a truly enfranchising space. And this in turn 7 Brasenose College's main Library and Old Cloisters, overlooked is part of Brasenose’s commitment to the ongoing by the Radcliffe Camera. democratization of higher education and society.’ n

2 . WWW.BNC.OX.AC.UK . + 44(0)1865 287 275 . [email protected] . TWITTER.COM/BNC_MEMBERS . REGISTERED CHARITY No. 1143447 Brasenose Developments Did you know? Seeking a Principal Preparations for building the Brasenose Library started in November 1657, and the foundations were begun in March 1658. Before the end of Michaelmas The College would like to announce his successor by October 2014 to be in post by October 2015. term the College will We would very much appreciate the support of our extended family in bringing this role to announce publicly that it is the attention of the individual who could most seeking its next Principal, effectively take up this important responsibility. The advert and further particulars will be available following the retirement of on our website soon, after 13 November.

Professor Alan Bowman in The College welcomes ideas or suggestions 2015. which could lead to high-quality candidates putting themselves forward or to an approach to such a candidate being made. Please contact our professional adviser Mr Anthony Archer of Bridgewater Advisory, [email protected] or Library and Old Cloisters overlooked by the Radcliffe Camera, 1835 1 +44 (0)7721 504 125. Books were chained in place in 1664 and To be the head of an Oxford College is a role without remained so until the interior was remodelled equal in the world of commerce or public service. It to designs of James Wyatt in the 1780s. During is a uniquely enjoyable and challenging position with this time, the present ceiling was put up and the no single path in life providing the best preparation. windows on the west side blocked to give more We are making very few assumptions about the type space for books. These remained blocked until of person best suited to this role and look forward to 1955. hearing how applicants feel their experience can be The present bookcases were put in during 1891 usefully employed. The Brasenose Governing Body and heating and lighting were installed in 1897, will provide a positive, intellectually stimulating and the undergraduates were admitted to the Library varied environment, within which its Principal will for the first time. enjoy using every ounce of his/her life experience to n In 1950 a fire broke out between the Library and further the stated aims of the College. the Brasenose Tower. During the repairs the Hulme (History) Library was created on the top floor (formerly undergraduate rooms). To be the head of an Oxford College is a role without equal in the world of commerce or public service.

Please consider giving at whatever level you can. Your support, combined with that of your peers, has a Thank you for significant impact on Brasenose students. supporting A very common gift to the Annual Fund is £20 a 1The Hulme (History) Library, 1951 month. These regular gifts are crucial; they collectively amount to a substantial sum and allow the College to The work revealed a Brasenose look to the future in the knowledge that the Annual fireplace with a wall Fund is established and that our plans can be realised. painting above it (now hidden) and two The overall amount raised for the Annual Fund Thank you again to all BNC Members who donated Elizabethan chimneys, this year was a very generous £262,000, which is this year. n which remain a feature having a substantial impact at the time of writing. today. The Telethon, the cornerstone of the Annual Fund, was once again a great success with over 40% If you would like to donate to the Brasenose of Members contacted donating to the Annual Annual Fund, please either go on our online 1 Exposed Elizabethan chimneys, as seen in Hulme Library today. Fund. This generosity is greatly appreciated by all giving site at: The previously blocked windows on the western our students and thank you to all those Members www.giving.ox.ac.uk/colleges/brasenose.html side of the Library were reopened in 1955, who took the time to speak to a current student, or contact the alumni & development office on allowing for a lighter and brighter space, as seen offering career advice and sharing memories of [email protected] today. n your time in College.

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A fond farewell to Pat Spight Fellows’ Secretary and former Principal’s Secretary

The College congratulated managed my year as Acting Principal, 2002-3, without her. I am sure that those whom she served Pat on her retirement in July, as Principal felt the same. Someone once said that the trouble with the world is that the efficient after a commendable 24 years’ are often not very nice, while the nice are often service at Brasenose. not very efficient. Pat Spight refutes this view. Throughout her time at BNC, she was both very nice and very efficient. Pat supported four Principals over 17 years namely, (1978-89), Lord Windlesham Indeed, she went far beyond the call of duty in her (1989-2002), (2003-11) and kindness and sympathy towards undergraduates Vernon Bogdanor as Acting Principal (2002- suffering from exam nerves. I know that my own 03), and the Fellows of the College for the past 7 pupils were particularly grateful for that. years. With a love of travel, a membership at the I wish her and Bladen a long and happy retirement.’ Women’s Institute and four grandchildren, we know she will be be kept fully occupied in her post- Dr Emeritus Fellow: ‘Although Pat BNC years. Spight has indeed observed many changes from her corner of the Old Quad, she herself has We all wish you a long and happy retirement, Pat you contrived - fortunately - not to change at all. I do will be missed very much. not believe that anyone has yet seen her angry, 1 Pat Spight (July 2013) or disconcerted – either by the many absurdities Professor Graham Richards CBE, Emeritus Fellow generated by an ancient College or by the vagaries in Chemistry: ‘I interviewed Pat when she was first of its assorted Fellows. Moreover, she has long Principals, she always expected that when a appointed and it was clear that she would make the been the indispensable custodian of the collective new one came along they would want someone perfect secretary for any Principal. How right that social memory of the College, and no ingenious new. However they were always wise enough initial impression proved to be. She had the total software will ever be able to replicate her subtle to know when they had a ‘good thing’ - always respect of all the Fellows, never uttering a critical knowledge of who everybody is or to produce calm, considerate, helpful and unfailingly discreet word about any of us however trying we were: kind orderly lists from tangled data. So we can all be with a thorough knowledge of the College. She and discreet. We all felt she was a true friend.’ assured that she is as unlikely to forget us as we particularly enjoyed the presence of distinguished are to forget her.’ politicians in College, and frequently recounted Professor Vernon Bogdanor CBE FBA, Emeritus a visit of John Major and so the only way to Fellow and Former Acting Principal: `Pat Spight Professor Roger Cashmore Honorary Fellow and counter that was to provide her with a BNC Prime was the perfect PA. Quite simply, I could not have Former Principal: ‘Having been secretary to four Minister; David Cameron.’ n

Men's to mixed; a period of change

Brasenose became a co-educational College in became one of the first all-male Colleges to admit In 1977 the Pater Michaelmas Term 1974, when the first women women. Part of a report from the 1975 issue of the Society had its first students matriculated. Alongside Jesus, Brazen Nose tells us that woman President and Wadham, Hertford and St Catherine’s, Brasenose the Somerset women’s ‘such a transition in the 20s and 30s would have dining club, named been an enormous shock, not to say a trauma, but after the College’s the changing social climate, not only of Oxford benefactress the but of the whole society, has made it a non- Duchess of Somerset News from revolutionary event’. was also in existence. By the late seventies 1 The Duchess of Somerset From the start, women students immersed the all-male institution, the archives... themselves in College life. The archives indicate the Phoenix Common Room, reported how ‘this that social events were on the rise, with the change has been good for the College’ (Brazen formation of many new clubs, societies and Nose, p. 78). committees. These included the formation of the JCR Events Committee in 1975, the re-birth of the In 1974 28 women students matriculated and from Georgina Edwards Philosophical Society in 1977, the institution of then on the number of women undergraduates Archives Assistant the Music Society in 1976 and the formation of a continued to increase. By October 1977 the numbers Monogerminal Society, also in 1976, to provide a stood at 294 men and 131 women. Furthermore, the forum for creative writers in the College. Fellowship welcomed its first woman Fellow in 1981.

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Alongside Brasenose going co-educational, in dinners took place in Hall. The first series of 1975 the College started to develop the site at Tanner lectures was given in Trinity Term 1977 Comments from the Frewin Hall to provide extra accommodation for by Professor Bernard Williams and the Israeli its members. The admissions procedure was also poet Carmi was made a member of the Common 1974 year group starting to change. Whilst Brasenose first moved to Room. The College also welcomed Howard create an office of Tutor of Admissions in 1948, in Hodgkin as Visiting Fellow in Creative Arts. ‘In 1974 there was not a lot of difference to being 1976 the College issued a 16-page prospectus with in an all male college (I suspect), with only 28 a coloured cover. This was such an innovation that The twentieth century as a whole saw many females. But by 1978 when I left, the whole the Brazen Nose reported that Brasenose was the dramatic, if gradual changes to the College as character of the college had changed (positively), first Oxford College to have one! In the same year, well as University life. Alongside two World as intake was probably 50:50 by then.’ under the Cheshire Admissions Scheme, it was Wars, the Asquith Commission and then the later Peter Borrell (1974, Classics) also agreed that three places per year should be Franks Commission, change in Oxford became reserved for pupils from Cheshire comprehensive inescapable. ‘It was a turning point, a time of discovery and a schools, for an experimental period of five years. sense of limitless possibilities. It gave a feeling of The archives always welcome personal accounts being pioneers, pushing through and information about student experiences. The artificial barriers in the pursuit following memoir by one of the first women of learning. There were no members, Nancy precedents, and everything to Hulek (Modern play for. We could help shape a Languages 1974), new future.’ is one invaluable Anna Avebury (1974, English) insight into Brasenose during this ‘We were quizzed a lot about the experience by senior staff in BNC and other Colleges (indeed 1 Frewin Hall and New Inn Hall Street (Brasen Nose 1978) period of change. n I was invited to a High Table dinner at Keble in College in the 1970s, as today, welcomed a variety my final year and was questioned by the Warden 7 Graduate prospectus, about my experience of being of arts and culture. Platnauer Concerts, Gaudies, 1989 plays and pantomimes, as well as countless at a mixed College). Keble was male at the time – but became mixed – I hope I played a small part in the change.’ Rosalind Foskett (nee Arnold) BNC 1974 – 1979 - From a Men’s to a Mixed College (1974, Geography)

‘When the first 28 women came up to BNC in 1974 it was to what was essentially a men’s college; we were even addressed as Mr in the plentiful advertising mail from gentlemen’s outfitters and the like that awaited us! On the whole we were treated fairly though not equally: major efforts had been made to provide for our needs: on the 2 staircases reserved for women each room received a full-length mirror and we had our own ironing room at the top of staircase 12. I also had the impression that the college staff was much aware of being in loco parentis to the women in their charge. We soon settled into the life of a men’s college, climbing over the dinner tables decked with the silver of formal hall with ease despite our long skirts. We were invited to more than our fair share of parties, and expected to take part in college life. As an indifferent swimmer I even felt obliged to take part in a swimming competition representing the college at Cowley Baths. I have no memory of how well we did, but do not remember attending a cuppers supper for this. No women’s rowing team for my year, but the boat club did accept 2 women coxes, Jane Reid-Kay and Dot Toft.

When a women’s staircase was set up in New Inn Hall Street for second year students, no one was really interested in being segregated or in need of a safe haven from the men…. Here we were left to our own devices, with a shared kitchen, highly unusual in those days, as a bonus, a gas fire to make toast on, and a full-length mirror, of course. My safety-conscious brother instructed me in the rudiments of self-defence, as the unlocked front door opened into the street. Memories include a shared bathroom with dripping pullovers hanging over the bath, and once what I thought was a dead body in it, luckily turning out to be a neoprene suit left to soak after one of Dot’s caving expeditions….During the first two years women were very much in the minority, with a second limited quota of women being admitted in 1975. In 1976 the Equal Opportunities Act led to the abolition of the quota, so that by the time I returned from a third year spent in Munich as part of my language studies the college had 2 undergraduate years with more women than men and a handful of women In 2014, Brasenose will celebrate graduate students, and the character of the college had changed for ever. No more stale dinner rolls being the 40th Anniversary of thrown around at dinner, with the aim of lodging them behind the portraits hung high on the walls, women’s sports clubs, students called by their first names, and generally a civilised atmosphere. With the transition to Co-Education along with St Catz, a mixed college, many of the old traditions had also gone: we were no longer required to send our sheets in Hertford, Jesus and Wadham. advance of the first day of term so that the beds could be made up ready; in fact no one These commemorations will offer a series of made the beds at all if we didn’t. Gowns were no longer required for tutorials. Kitchens events throughout the year, both in Oxford, were making their appearance on the refurbished staircases on New Inn Hall and St London and overseas, and are open to Michael’s Streets. I felt privileged to be at Brasenose, and in particular to experience the Members from all matriculation years. For the college at a time of transition.’ full event listing, please see the back page.

Nancy Hulek (1974, Modern Languages) We hope you will be able to join us!

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n He encouraged me to put in the work on my essays essays on my put in the work me to He encouraged interest a genuine whilst at the same time showing and revue. theatre in Oxford work in my Eric Collieu’s to tribute the greatest Perhaps a made is that, though I have understanding I am more and writer as an actor myself name for been. ever than I have now in history interested nor too possessive neither too So Brasenose, that at Brasenose me. It was nurtured proscriptive, it I saw in me long before a potential people saw first not my admit that BNC was I must in myself. old father’s my by I had been turned down choice. other two and by - at Cambridge – Clare college thanks my put on record to like I’d at Oxford. colleges the right choice. helping me make them all for to some old received I after I left Oxford, years A few which traced tree documents including a family a Palyn, a man called George back to me directly these through As I read of London. Girdler March widened. In a will dated eyes my old papers the “ for bequeathed money Palyn George 1610 of the scholars of the poorer of foure maintenance College”. of Brasenose foundation It was full circle. come I’d that I felt When I read be. meant to and me were clear that Brasenose , London, May 2013 May , London, Michael Palin ©Michael Palin REGISTERED CHARITY No. 1143447 1143447 CHARITY No. REGISTERED . TWITTER.COM/BNC_MEMBERS TWITTER.COM/BNC_MEMBERS . Michael Palin, Richard Richard Michael Palin, Bob Michael Palin, 1 3 Woods and Tim Connor by the by Connor and Tim Woods 1962 and (between Deer Park 1965) and row) (front Hewison George Czerniawski, Richard Richard Roach, Peter Cook, Winterbottom, Derek Woods, Connor, Tim Wilkinson, Peter James Hiller Walker, George (1962). (back row), them to pay for it. I was full of misgivings. There were were full of misgivings. There it. I was for pay them to the and by thousands of people at the University, of these must have some hundreds of averages law than us. But Hewison if not funnier, been as funny, in nothing He firmly believed not daunted. was talk the to and managed nothing gained, ventured, letting us try out our sketches Union into Oxford in the Union Cellars. evenings at jazz during intervals the bar to from who strayed few of the reaction The book us to for encouraging sufficiently us was watch Oxford at the was independent gig. This our first We Christmas Party. Society Psychological University seemed who audience a small, thoughtful to played our eclectic mix enjoyed have to quiet, but professed so much that comedy satirical and conceptual of silly, ask us back. to like they’d and we grew, our work then on the demand for From cramming night of the week, be seen on any could and setting off Seven Austin Robert’s into props Blenheim and even halls, church rooms, college for called spot. We do our thirty-minute to Palace Seedy Entertainers. The ourselves the fringes to staid schoolboy from My transition see one came to Frost (David business of show aided in 1964) was at Edinburgh of our revues Eric tutor, Modern History my by and abetted enough to sensitive was Collieu Professor Collieu. more just possibly, that I was, the fact appreciate he And yet acting than Modern History. cut out for right. the balance keep to skilfully, very managed, [email protected] [email protected] . + 44(0)1865 287 275 275 + 44(0)1865 287 .

WWW.BNC.OX.AC.UK WWW.BNC.OX.AC.UK . 6 Alumni News Alumni For me all this comedy was just fun, a respite from from just fun, a respite was me all this comedy For Bede of the Venerable with translations wrestling in the 13th of the Wardrobe and the importance my to Londoner metropolitan But Robert, century. had other ideas. He glimpsed northerner, provincial a future the 13th century, beyond well a future and writing our comedy performing which involved and getting undergraduates, fellow for creations I blame Spike Milligan for much of what happened. for Milligan I blame Spike to figure inspirational And I can’t think of a more wrote of which Spike Goon Shows, blame. The in the mid life my into most of the scripts, had come still at school in Sheffield. There when I was 1950s, something daring and audacious about theirwas with share way not in any that I could silliness surreal all mad, were thought they My father parents. my inventive right. But if freewheeling and indeed he was then I wanted madness, humour was character-led on radio Goon Shows not alone. The of it. I was more in appreciation, the same kind of subversive rallied to Python was the same kind of people, that Monty Almost as later. nearly fifteen years do on television fresher with a fellow soon as I started a conversation morning at on that first Hewison, named Robert in Goon Show the Old Quad, it was to the entrance it, but get those who didn’t for Intolerable voices. and those who did. Hewison bonding for wonderfully Spike’s it, and soon became firm friends, playing I got “Songs Sellers’ Peter and Preserved” album “Milligan again. and over over Sellers” Swingin’ For Between my first, polite encounter with the rest of with the rest encounter polite first, my Between on that Lodge the Porter’s set by Modern History my of final evening and my autumn morning in 1962 which I bought debauchery after Schools in 1965 (on a underwent life my £9) a suit costing and destroyed I was time I left the By Brasenose quantum change. but I was do, to of what I wanted certain no more do. to certain of what I didn’t want much more There was before Brasenose and after Brasenose. and after Brasenose. Brasenose before was There exhibitionist a shy was there Brasenose Before and council Sheffield please the city hoping to from – by be there him to paying who were – his father job in a safe and a decent degree a good getting a confident was there Brasenose, After profession. degree, class with a second and performer writer and and theatre, in revue of success record a track do next. idea of what to no absolutely the return to his College roots. his College to the return Michael Palin, talks Oxford and Oxford talks Michael Palin, presenter, writer, and alumnus, and alumnus, writer, presenter, BAFTA Fellowship – actor, – actor, Fellowship BAFTA its highest honour – the 2013 its highest Following a BAFTA award of award a BAFTA Following Michael Palin exclusive Palin Michael 7

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n Student News Student the Medical School single and the largest undertaken project the UEP in its first by hoped that It’s year. and this imaginative to approach creative as using the collections will resource a research develop. to continue TWITTER.COM/BNC_MEMBERS TWITTER.COM/BNC_MEMBERS . 19th Century Japanese landscapes used in the study used Japanese landscapes 19th Century Jonathan Attwood Jonathan Attwood 1 1 The experiment enabled comparisons to be made to enabled comparisons experiment The the people looking for of observations between and those the objects ‘live’ between differences data and produced seeing them only on a screen, and the both neuroscientists to that will be of interest about the notice much visitors how Museum as to objects on display. had Curator time a Teaching the first was This in the supervision of a student in collaborated (2010, Mathematics & Philosophy) Mathematics & Benjamin Ralph (2010, an institution with around 100 times as many an institution with around consecutive and two College students as Brasenose set for was stage under its bulging belt. The victories biblical Unfortunately, and Goliath encounter. a David fairly was did not bear out, and Brasenose precedent a superior by without disgrace, beaten, to proud all incredibly was the team Yet team. the enjoyed and thoroughly the College represent will mark the this appearance Hopefully, experience. quizzing Brasenose of televised era start of a new representing a team after a decade where success, round the second reaching Postgraduates Brasenose the sole highlight. was of Only Connect

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+ 44(0)1865 287 275 275 + 44(0)1865 287 . Turner Edwards and Turner Ben Ralph (c) in reserve, faced the faced in reserve, Bubb-Humfryes Oliver Brasenose College team with Jeremy Paxman with Jeremy team College Brasenose WWW.BNC.OX.AC.UK WWW.BNC.OX.AC.UK Brasenose Brasenose challenged BNC student at the centre of of at the centre BNC student a unique collaboration University Oxford’s funded by an initiative Programme, Engagement established was W Mellon Foundation, the Andrew the use of the and develop explore in 2012 to and in the teaching of the Museum collections of the University. research in medicine, Dr Chrystalina lecturer Brasenose Dr Jim Harris, Curator, Teaching and Antoniades, medical students of undergraduate a group took Brasenose amongst whom was the Ashmolean, to Medical (2011, student, Jonathan Attwood Honours a Final undertaken . Having Sciences) of on the phenomenon project School research changes when large that occurs blindness change the observer, by unnoticed in a visual stimulus go an devise to Jonathan used Museum artefacts experiment. of pairs Glyn Humphreys, Professor with Working ceramics, prints, ancient Greek Japanese woodblock selected were English silver, and seventeenth-century the museum departments, each manifesting from or design. colour in condition, some variation with Rottweiler, resident of Newsnight’s daunting prospect of Manchester, and the University Paxman, Jeremy This year Brasenose College achieved a feat the likes the likes a feat achieved College Brasenose year This a decade and reached of which had not been seen for most intellectually of BBC2’s round televised the first University quiz show: stimulating and prestigious Josh Phillips, comprising team, The Challenge. James Burt, 5 The artThe of science quoting

There’s no obvious There’s path for career graduates. Classics ruled out I’d Once management law, andconsultancy as I might teaching, been an have well for English graduate degree all the use my me a in getting was n

Pages from ‘The Flower and the Flower ‘The from Pages 1 Plough'

[email protected] [email protected] Alumna Profile Alumna ‘Alumni Profile’ in the subject line to share yours! yours! share in the subject line to Profile’ ‘Alumni will Alumni Profiles be run in conjunction with the 2014 Co- Celebrations Education year. next throughout news Please email your to (2005, Classics) Emma Wright self-employment on the wonders of on the wonders Emma Wright Wright Emma More details on More at can be found Emma Press The www.theemmapress.com. As it turned out, my Classics degree did come in did come degree Classics As it turned out, my learned to I have else would handy after all. Where disciplines, of different in a variety long hours, work diplomacy with my extreme and exercise surviving Greats the exhilaration of After colleagues? a(just), performing be happy I couldn’t single, specialised within a large role I love company. doing everything the from myself, theediting to and sales,publicity and I hope I never be an to have again. employee job. I freelanced for some internet start-ups in East start-ups some internet for I freelanced job. permanent first landing my before a year for London never I’d Group. with the Orion Publishing contract but I initially enjoyed person, as a techie seen myself and it was managing their ebook production and about coding learn to empowering strangely that I resigned in fact, book design. So empowering, publishing outfit, own last summer and set up my houses are publishing Traditional Emma Press. The digital opportunities new and the adapt to to failing than sit at my so rather of readers, expectations thought I should just blogs I bitter desk and write stuck in. get

Brasenose Sports

remained unbeaten in bumps racing, was given the A boat naming to remember name ‘Jacqueline’ in honour of Mrs Bowman, our Principal’s wife. We were delighted to welcome the Principal and Mrs Bowman to the boathouse for the As the sun blazed and the spectators roared on blades for the first time in 25 years, and where we afternoon, and especially must thank Mrs Bowman Saturday of Eights Week 2013, Brasenose College watched every one of our M1, W1, M2 and W2 for presiding over the ceremony with such aplomb! Boat Club enjoyed a historic day that will live long achieve fantastic bumps. The euphoric atmosphere in the memory of all who were present. It was culminated with the Boat Naming Ceremony for our We would also like to take this opportunity to a day that saw our M1 crew celebrate winning new Women’s 1st VIII. The boat, which has so far express our gratitude for a hugely generous donation from the Carruthers family, who chose the name of our new boat. This donation permitted our continued employment of professional coaches, which has been an absolutely crucial factor as we seek to keep on improving our training and the quality of rowing throughout the Club.

The Boat Naming Ceremony was a splendid way to celebrate the end of the Eights campaign, which truly was a testament to the depth of talent and sheer hard work of our squads. These attributes have characterised BNCBC’s wonderful trajectory of success throughout this year and we have no doubt this will continue into the future, as we look forward to marking BNCBC’s 200th anniversary in 2015. n

Amrit Gosal, BNCBC Co-President 2012-13

7 The Principal and Mrs Bowman celebrate the Naming of the Women’s 1st VIII Boat with BNC Rowers and a bottle of fizz! BNCBC Summer Eights, Saturday 25 May

England’s first Football Captain: BNC 6-a-side a BNC man football wants you! Plans for a 2014 spring Members football One of Brasenose’s most exciting sporting tournament are underway. If you would like to affiliations has returned to the limelight following participate in a team from the eighties, nineties recent exposure on the BBC. Cuthbert Ottaway and noughties then do get in touch by emailing (1870), regarded amongst contemporaries [email protected] quoting ‘BNC as perhaps the most versatile sportsman of 6-a-side’ in the subject line. n his generation, achieved record status after representing the University at the top level in five different sports – athletics, rackets, real tennis, cricket and football. Ottaway later went on to become a professional footballer, captaining England’s first football team and leading them in their first ever international football match. His success in cricket accrued equal credibility following his 150-run partnership with sporting hero W G Grace and an invitation to participate in a ‘Gentleman of England’ tour of North America.

Michael Southwick's 'England's First Football Captain: A Biography of Cuthbert Ottaway 1850 – 1878' acknowledges in full why Brasenose's sporting hero isn't one to forget. For more information see BBC Sport's article, 'Cuthbert Ottaway: England's Sporting Genius Rediscovered': www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23724904 n

7 Cuthbert Ottaway (1850-78)

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The team raised a terrific sum of over £3,000 for Brasenose College runs 10k the Campaign and we commend its commitment to the cause. If you’d like to take on the challenge Town & Gown for 2014, then please contact us by emailing [email protected] quoting ‘Town & Gown’ in the subject line. On Sunday 12 May, 40 Brasenose students, staff and Campaign, it’s a very enjoyable run around the centre one alumnus took to the streets of Oxford for the of Oxford, starting and finishing in the University Parks. annual Town and Gown 10km Race for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. 63-year-old, Tony Hill, reports: In 2013, I was the sole alumnus taking part. Looking ahead to 2014, I hope we can do much better. For ‘During my three years at Brasenose, I played hockey older alumni the challenge, in the words of a current regularly for the college and was part of the side that porter at the college, might be to complete the Sporting triumphs made the cuppers final, losing to St Edmund Hall, event in less minutes than your age. Imagine if we in 1970. In May, after a gap of some 42 years, I was could field, and sponsor, a representative from every Polo Secured a well- delighted once again to be part of a (40 strong!) matriculation year since (say) 1960…’ n college team competing in the Oxford Town & deserved 2013 Gown 10km. Organised by the Muscular Dystrophy Tony Hill (1968, Mathematics) Cuppers title after two rounds of penalties! 5 Tony Hill with the Town & Gown team, May 2013

Rowing M1 gained blades during Summer Eights for the first time in 25 years!

Rugby Claimed victory as 2013 Sevens Champions!

Professor Douglas Higgs won the Buchanan the moving image’, and is the highest honour the Appointments Medal for his work on the regulation of the Academy can bestow. human alpha-globin gene cluster – a model Dr Konstantin Ardakov (TF, vice Haydon, Pure used to understand how human genes are Professor Maths) has been appointed an Official Fellow switched on and off in cells, hence improving the Peter Somogyi in Mathematics at Brasenose College and is an management of patients with human genetic delivered the Péter Oxford University Lecturer in Pure Mathematics. Dr disease. Pázmány Lecture Ardakov previously held academic positions at the ‘Chronocircuit of Universities of Sheffield, Nottingham and Queen David Hutchison (1980) was awarded an OBE space-specific Mary University of London. for services to Finance in the Queen’s Birthday neurons in the Honours. brain’ at the Loránd Professor Rob Fender (TF, Eötvös University, vice Herz, Astrophysics) joined Graham Leeke (1958) was awarded a Medal of Budapest on as an official Fellow of BNC in the Order of the British Empire for services to the 9 May. He was awarded the title ‘Doctor et Professor October. Professor Fender moved community in Bishop’s Tachbrook, Warwickshire. Honoris Causa’ in a ceremony on 10 May along to Oxford from the University with Professors Dominique Combe (Paris), Helmut of Southampton where he was Richard Marriott (1951) has been elected a Koziol (Vienna) and Ferjan Ormeling (Utrecht). Professor of Physics and Head of Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. Professor Somogyi received his degrees, MSc Astronomy from 2004-2013. in biology in 1975 and Doctorate in cell biology Captain Edward Maslen-Jones (1945) was (1977), at his alma mater. awarded the Order of Mercy for Distinguished Awards Voluntary Service. Sir Michael Stratton (1976) has been knighted in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for his services Dr Eric Albone (1959) was awarded the MBE for Michael Palin (1962) was awarded a BAFTA to Medical Science. A pioneer in the field of services to Education in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. Fellowship on 12 May 2013. The BAFTA cancer genetics, his work has led to important Fellowship is a lifetime achievement award breakthroughs in the understanding, prevention Professor Polly Arnold (1990) has been elected presented by the British Academy of Film and and treatment of cancer, particularly through his as the first female president of the Royal Society of Television Arts (BAFTA) since 1971 ‘in recognition discovery of mutated genes in breast and skin Chemistry. of outstanding achievement in the art forms of cancers. n

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Alumni Events 2013

See our Flickr site for the full Alumni Events Photo Gallery www.flickr.com/photos/bnc_members

7 1 1963 Matriculands and their guests th 5 Fun was had at the Alumni Family Garden Party on reunited to celebrate their 50 year as Saturday 3 August. Even the grown-ups enjoyed themselves, a BNC Member at the Golden Jubilee with the little help of a glass of Pimms! Lunch, Saturday 27 April

3 There was a lively atmosphere on Friday 6 September, when Matriculands 2004-5 returned to Brasenose for their first Gaudy.

5 Diamond Jubilee Lunch (1953), Saturday 14 September welcomed Members to commemorate their 60th Anniversary at BNC. 5 Brasenose welcomed David Cameron (PPE, 1985), to the Official Opening of the Quincentenary Renovations on Friday 20 September. We would like to thank the Prime Minister for his speech and time taken to attend this event.

7 The Rt Hon the Lord Patten of Barnes (Chancellor of ), with the Principal, Mrs Bowman and guests.

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1 Gaudy (1993-5), Friday 21 June

5 Annual Alumni Dinner, Saturday 21 1 Rhodes Scholars celebrated the 110th September Rhodes Anniversary at a Reunion Dinner, on Wednesday 18 September

3 Members gathered to toast the unveiling of the Platnauer Portrait, Friday 9 August.

7 Brasenose Society Summer Party, Tuesday 4 June 100 Members and their guests gathered in London at global Law Firm, Linklaters LLP, kindly hosted by the BNC Society President, Nigel Jones (Biochemistry, 1980).

generation in opera and 2013-14 concert. Her repertoire Music Diary ranges from Handel and Mozart operas Our Members are warmly invited to attend 2007 to explore the repertory of the Renaissance to complex 20th and College concerts. Details of the next Platnauer and Baroque, combining academic insight with the 21st century works. Concerts are as follows: highest levels of performance practice. Since then, She has performed with the BBC Symphony, this (The Herald) ensemble has given concerts London Sinfonietta, Ensemble Intercontemporain, The Marian Consort directed by Rory McCleery throughout the UK and Europe. The programme Schoenberg Ensemble, The King’s Consort, Early Sunday 27 October 2013, 9 pm draws on the rich corpus of music written by Opera Company, City of Birmingham Symphony, Taking its name from the Blessed Virgin Mary, The William Byrd, England’s greatest Renaissance Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and the Nash Marian Consort was formed at Oxford University in composer, and is entitled ‘Singing in secret’ – Ensemble. n Music from Recusant Renaissance England Jonathan Newell Director of College Music Clare Booth - Voice Sunday 2 February 2014, 9 pm For full information about all musical events, please Clare Booth has established a reputation as one visit the College’s website, www.bnc.ox.ac.uk, or of the most talented and versatile singers of her email [email protected].

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The Alumni Relations & Development Office is always keen to welcome Brasenose Members returning to College. We are also pleased to be able Events Diary to arrange Alumni Dining in Hall, during term time, for you and your guest and assist you with booking Gaudies College accommodation should you require it. Gaudy 1974 – 1976, Friday 28 March 2014 2014 CO-EDUCATION If you would like to visit us we're located on Gaudy 1980 – 1982, Friday 27 June 2014 CELEBRATIONS staircase 7:2, just before the Library. Our usual Gaudy 1996 – 1997, Friday 12 September 2014 Panel discussions office hours are 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays. Gaudy 2006 – 2007, Friday 26 September 2014 Women in Law, Wadham College Alumni & Guest Events Thursday 6 February 2014 The Alumni Relations & Development Office Jubilee Lunch (for Marticulation Years prior to Brasenose College Lessons in Life and Work: What I wish I’d and including 1962) Oxford OX1 4AJ known at 18, University of Oxford Alumni Friday 4 April 2014 Office Tel: +44 (0)1865 287 275 Guests welcome. Thursday 6 March 2014 Email: [email protected] Brasenose Society President’s Summer Drinks Web: www.bnc.ox.ac.uk Women in Media, Jesus College Lloyd’s of London, Thursday 5 June 2014 Thursday 8 May 2014 Guests welcome. Women in Science, University of Oxford Join our online Alumni Family Garden Party Alumni Office Saturday 2 August 2014 Thursday 6 November 2014 BNC Communities: Guests (and children!) welcome. Women in Literature, Hertford College www.facebook.com/pages/ Brasenose Society Annual Alumni Dinner & AGM Date TBC Brasenose-College Saturday 20 September 2014 Women and Work, St Catz Guests welcome. www.twitter.com/bnc_members Date TBC Alumni BNCBC Event Women in Finance, Brasenose College www.linkedin.com Torpids Dinner Date TBC Saturday 8 March 2014 Alumni Subject Events Oxford Alumni Weekend Will also feature a range of sessions Classics Reunion Lunch focusing on the co-education anniversary. Saturday 7 June 2014 19 – 21 September 2014 Guests welcome. Noticeboard The Ellesmere Society Dinner (Law) Saturday 15 November 2014 Invitations will be sent three months prior to the Inspire at Brazen Futures Career Event Guests welcome. event date. Thanks to our Members this motivational careers Donor Event All events will be held in College, unless stated event can be offered to our current students during Circle Lunch (Legators) otherwise. For more information contact us on Hilary Terms. If you would like to volunteer to speak Friday 21 November 2014 +44 (0)1865 287 275 or about your career or area of expertise at a future Guests welcome. [email protected] event then please get in touch. Email – [email protected] quoting ‘Brazen Futures’ in the subject line.

The Brasenose Strollers Rediscovered Brasenose Are you an alumni cricketer? Then the Brasenose Strollers want to hear from you! Formed in 1923, this Christmas cards is one of the oldest alumni sporting clubs associated with BNC which is still in effect today. The Strollers continue to tour Devon for the second week of August each year and hold an annual match against Brasenose College the College at the Brasenose cricket ground in May/ June. To find out more or enquire about joining, then photographs do contact Treasurer and Secretary, Peter Aylott (1984), directly - [email protected]. You can access the Gillman & Soame photograph archive for Brasenose College

online using the following details: Brasenose Priests and Martyrs Under www.gsimagebank.co.uk/bnc Login: Brasenose 2013 Elizabeth I Our 2013 Christmas card is available in packs Due to popular demand, requests for copies of this of 10, from the Oxford University Shop. For more information: free pamphlet, published by the College's Francis Visit www.oushop.com/Oxford-Colleges/ Email [email protected] Brasenose-College to purchase yours. Ingleby Society, are still being taken. Tel 01869 328200 Email – [email protected].

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