Summer 20178 www..ac.uk/alumni

CampusThe Magazine for of Wales Alumni

nn Ensuring a legacy for future generations nn A delegation from the Arctic visits the Dictionary nn 2017 Graduation Celebration nn Graduate awarded prestigious environmental prize nn The transformed institution - looking to the future nn Introducing the new Director of the Press nn Graduates part of Oscar winning team Welcome from your Alumni Officer

As we proceed towards merger with Welcome the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), the University is keen from the Vice- to ensure that graduates feel informed about the process, and have the t was in October of 2011 opportunity to share any comments. that the University of It is important to stress that these IWales and the University current changes within the University of Wales Trinity Saint David should not affect graduates in any way. (UWTSD) first announced that Graduates will still retain the University of Wales award that they received they had made the significant upon graduation and will continue to and historic decision to seek be valued members of the University of irrevocable constitutional Wales Alumni Association. change.

The transformed University will Transformation, adaptability and flexibility celebrate and embrace the thousands are familiar words to organisations working of graduates around the world who in these challenging times, and these are hold a Wales degree, and it will ensure words that also define the journey that has that they receive the same services led us to this point in the integration. A complex process, both institutions have and support that they receive now. had to adhere to a range of constitutional and structural issues. Whenever you graduated, or whatever institution you attended, we hope you By making these structural changes, the transformed university will take the feel proud of your connection with the contribution made by the University of Wales as a Federal University over University and we are keen to ensure two centuries and enable it to play a meaningful role within the Welsh higher that the Association continues to grow. education sector in the future, continuing its mission and commitment to support the academic, cultural and economic life of Wales as part of the transformed I would welcome any comments you post-merger university. We look forward with confidence and a clear mission to may have about either any of the transform the lives of those who benefit from their connection to this University articles in this magazine, or the alumni - wherever that is as a valued graduate of the University of Wales, or as a new association itself, and if you have any student starting out on their educational journey. news, photographs or alumni events which you would like to share and We are keen to ensure that graduates and other key stakeholders are engaged feature, then I encourage you to get with and informed about the process leading up to merger, and I hope this in touch. I very much hope you enjoy edition of Campus helps to provide you with further information about these key reading this year’s edition of Campus. developments.

Jocelyn Keedwell Professor Medwin Hughes DL DPhil DPS FRSA Communications Officer (Alumni) Vice-Chancellor

Contents

A delegation from the Arctic The Transformed University – Developments within the visits the Dictionary looking forward Bay City Region The Dictionary welcomes History of the new Friends 4 University of Wales 8 12

2017 Graduation Celebration Stories of the Saints Graduates part of Oscar winning team Professor José Sarukhán: New Director for UWP 2017 Tyler Prize winner Branch and 6 10 Section News 14 2 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 3 Ensuring a legacy for future generations The University delivers one of the first initiatives under Adduned Cymru – The Wales pledge with the full transferral of all ‘restricted endowments’ to an independent trust.

endowments on its behalf. However, all matters have now been fully transferred with these ‘restricted endowments’ placed in a new fund created by the trust – the ‘Y Werin’ legacy fund.

Speaking about the importance of this announcement, Professor Medwin Hughes, Vice-Chancellor said: “This significant move confirms the University’s commitment to safeguard the academic and cultural activities it supports, and ensures continuity of its contribution to Welsh learning and scholarship both throughout, and after merger.”

Text The trustees will now manage the restricted endowments in a manner consistent with the charitable purposes of the trust and the charitable intentions of the original benefactor of each endowment. They will make all strategic decisions regarding the investment and management of the restricted endowments and set the criteria for and assess any applications for awards or prizes.

Mr Dick Roberts, CBE, Chairman of the Scholarships such as the Vernam Hull Trust said: “This move should provide Memorial Prize, and Sir Ellis Griffith assurance to the wider community Memorial Prize recognise and highlight that these gifts, generously given, will work which is judged to be of the continue to be awarded and used only for highest standard of Welsh research- their original purpose. This transferral of based publication; the Aberfan complete authority to the trust and the These ‘restricted endowments’, which scholarship serves to encourage and creation of Y Werin demonstrates that the were given over many years for dedicated assist students from Aberfan and the University understands the importance purposes or to support particular types surrounding Merthyr Valley to pursue of protecting the traditional services of beneficiaries, have been held by the higher education; and the Geoffrey associated with the University and its University in a trustee capacity and, at Crawshay Scholarship fund and Gareth commitment to ensuring that the historic the end of the 2015/16 financial year, Jones Memorial Travelling Scholarship assets it holds continue to benefit the together had a value of some £5.8 enable successful candidates to travel whole of Wales.” million. abroad with the intention of enriching the student’s aesthetic experience in a branch Further information about the Y Werin Providing financial support for prospective of the Fine Arts or to facilitate study of legacy fund can be found on the new students, current students and Graduates, international affairs. website - www.ywerinlegacyfund.wales as well as recognising and highlighting This contains details of the new structure, work deemed to be of the highest The UW Restricted Endowment Trust as well as eligibility criteria and the standard, these donations and bequests (UWRET) was established in February application process for all the different cover a wide range of subjects from 2015, and until now the University awards and prizes currently available to research and travel, to music. has continued to administer these Students and Graduates. Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru welcomes new Friends!

In June, Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru (The University of Wales Dictionary of the ) officially launched its Society of Friends at Y Drwm, The National Library of Wales, in .

Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru is the only standard historical dictionary of Welsh and it is broadly comparable in method and scope to the Oxford English Dictionary. It presents the vocabulary of the Welsh language from the earliest Old Welsh texts to the everyday language of today.

The chief aim of the Friends is to introduce the Dictionary to as wide an audience as possible in Wales, as well as to publicise and promote its use to a global audience.

At the launch, the audience were treated to a number of engaging talks. These included a discussion of the early usage of the word ‘bach’ (small) in the poetry of Dafydd ap Gwilym, the connotations of the word ‘noddwr’ (patron), and an insight into the day to day work of the Dictionary and how the various technological advances and digital (Clockwise) Myrddin ap Dafydd; visiting the resources have transformed the way they Dictionary’s Offices; the four volumes work. The Society’s President, the chaired poet Myrddin ap Dafydd, spoke of his admiration for the depth of knowledge show our appreciation of their support. parts of the Second Edition (a–brig). The and information to be discovered within We hope our Friends will introduce many Dictionary has been online since June the Dictionary’s pages. Attendees also others to the joys of the Dictionary and 2014 and in February 2016 it became had the opportunity to visit the Dictionary help to sustain it in the future.” available as a free app for mobile phones offices and learn more about this and tablets. important resource and its role in Welsh A reading programme for the Dictionary life and culture. was established in 1921 as the first Support is needed to help secure the research project of the University of future of this valuable resource. There Speaking about the scheme Andrew Wales Board Of Celtic Studies. Almost are various ways you can do this – most Hawke, the Managing Editor, said: two million citation slips were collected importantly by using the Dictionary and which would serve as the basis for the encouraging others to do so, but you can “Over the course of nearly a century, Dictionary. Editorial work began in 1948 also help by becoming a Friend of the the Dictionary has had many friends, and in 1967 the first volume of the Dictionary for a small annual membership benefactors, and supporters, as well as Dictionary (a–ffysur) appeared. The last fee of £10 (£5 for pensioners, students, numerous volunteer readers who have of the four volumes (s–Zwinglïaidd) was and the unemployed). supplied much of the evidence cited in published in 2002 and since then the the Dictionary, and proofreaders who have editorial team, working in the Centre For more information, please visit the ensured its accuracy. It is a delight to be for Advanced Welsh and Celtic Studies Dictionary’s website: able to bring our supporters together in in Aberystwyth, has been re-editing the www.welsh-dictionary.ac.uk/friends-of- the National Library and our offices to Dictionary and has published twelve the-dictionary/ 4 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 5

A delegation from The Group were particularly interested in the Dictionary’s work. They came to the Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic the Arctic visits Studies to hear a presentation on the Dictionary’s work and to meet the staff, Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru and the state of Welsh and Inuktitut was discussed. A BBC film crew was in attendance to film the event, including In December, a group of On behalf of Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru, one reporter who was Canadian by birth and had some proficiency in Inuktitut. Inuit from the Canadian Andrew Hawke said: Arctic undertook a study “It was great to welcome the members Subsequently, the group also met with tour of Wales to learn how of the ITK Language Committee to the the First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, Welsh is promoted and how Dictionary’s offices in Aberystwyth. Welsh Language Commissioner Meri Huws, Their enthusiasm for their language and HRH The Prince of Wales. The visit also it has flourished as a living was infectious - and an example to us attracted attention in northern Canada, language. in Wales - there are only about 36,000 with items in the press and online. speakers but nine different ways of The delegation, consisting of 17 members writing the language! Just as Geiriadur As part of a partnership between the of the Language Committee of Inuit Prifysgol Cymru is regarded as a means British Council, the Prince’s Charities Tapiriit Kanatami (literally ‘Inuit will of maintaining the standard of written Canada, and the Canadian High be United’) from the Arctic region of Welsh, so one standard written form will Commission, Welsh author and academic Canada, met with several institutions help Inuktitut to survive and prosper. Alys Conran accompanied the group to involved in promoting the Welsh language They said how they admired the Welsh for document their time in Wales. To read including ’s Language keeping Welsh alive.” more about their visit, you can read her Technology Unit, the Welsh Books Council, Blog on the Wales Arts Review website: the National Library of Wales, the Welsh www.walesartsreview.org/inuits-in-wales/ Joint Education Committee (WJEC), and Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru.

There are sixty native languages in Canada all of which are experiencing declining numbers of speakers. In addition to that, the Inuit people have nine different ways of writing their language making efforts to support and revive it a very complex matter.

The group, which consisted mainly of teachers, visited Wales to find out more about the way the Welsh language is being promoted and sustained in the hope that they could get advice and help to revive the Inuktut language – their native language. 36,000 people speak Inuktitut, though the language does not have a strong written tradition and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Language Committee © Prince’s Charities Canada depends on the older generation to convey it from one generation to the next. The Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami’s language The National of Wales committee is currently engaged in a historic process to create one standard On Wednesday 9th August at 12:00 at the UW/UWTSD stand at the Eisteddfod, written form of the Inuktitut language. As Myrddin ap Dafydd will give a talk about the Friends of the Dictionary, and part of their study tour, the group had the Angharad Fychan, one of the Senior Editors, will discuss some of the words recently opportunity to meet the staff of Geiriadur added to the Dictionary. There will also be an opportunity to try out the Dictionary’s Prifysgol Cymru and discuss the project. app throughout the week. University of Wales 2017 Graduation Celebration

The 2017 celebration was recently held at the end of April at the Wales Millennium Centre, with over 300 graduates, along with their guests, in attendance. A truly international affair, students travelled from China, Africa, India and Europe to take part in the celebrations. Presided over by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Medwin Hughes, the procession included representatives from both the University of Wales and our merger partner the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. The proceedings saw each graduate practice to the High Court. The first personally greeted by the Vice- Welsh woman to become a Queen’s Chancellor as well as being treated Counsel, she has gone on to claim to fantastic performances by Hannah this accolade on two more occasions, Dobra, a singer from the Wales being the first woman from Wales to International Academy of Voice. be appointed a Justice of the High Court, Queen’s Bench Division, and Right Rev. Dr As in past years, as part of the the first woman to be appointed to the celebrations, the University also role of Presiding Judge of the Circuit in awarded degrees on an honorary basis. Wales. Lawyer and advocate, expert in This year the University recognised medicine and Judge of the High Court, three individuals: Dame Nicola is now among one of the most respected jurists of our time. The Right Rev. Dr Barry Morgan - Doctor of Divinity honoris causa Mr Hywel Gwynfryn - Master of Arts honoris causa After serving nearly 14 years at the helm of the , and 24 A familiar face and voice to many years as a bishop, on his retirement in Wales, Hywel Gwynfryn’s career in January, Dr Barry Morgan was the in Broadcasting, in both Welsh and longest serving Archbishop in the English, has spanned over 50 years. worldwide Anglican Communion and Since joining the BBC in 1964, he also one of the longest serving bishops. has played a significant role in the He has made a vast contribution to development of broadcasting in The Hon. Mrs Justice Welsh life and the Church in Wales, Wales, having presented the Helo Sut Nicola Davies DBE championing change, encouraging Dach Chi? Saturday pop show in the the establishment of good community 1960s and 1970s, the first ever Welsh relations across the country, and language pop programme on Radio, becoming a respected and trusted and the morning show Helo Bobol participant in and commentator on a when the BBC Radio Cymru service number of matters affecting the public started in 1979. Alongside his work in life of the nation. As Pro-Chancellor of broadcasting, he has also established the University of Wales, his support and a popular following as an author, and advice has been invaluable. has been a prolific writer of songs, shows, and pantomimes for television, The Honourable Mrs Justice Nicola radio and the theatre. Hywel has been Davies DBE - fortunate to travel the world as a Doctor of Laws honoris causa broadcaster, introducing new cultures and beliefs and lifestyles to an audience A leader in the Law and breaker of glass back here in Wales, and has worked ceilings, Dame Nicola’s career has seen tirelessly in promoting Welsh language her go from a high-profile medical law broadcasting. Mr Hywel Gwynfryn 6 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 7 Prestigious international environmental prize awarded to UW Alumnus

then of North Wales (Bangor) and working with leading plant population biologist, John Harper. Their research into buttercup demography is considered classic work in ecology and was highlighted by the Journal of Ecology as one of the 10 most influential papers of the last century in plant population ecology.

On completion of his PhD, Sarukhán returned to his home country in 1972, to become Professor of Ecology at UNAM, later serving as Director of the Institute of Biology. There, he continued to work on plant demography, this time on Mexico’s tropical trees. In 1989, Sarukhán became the University’s Rector and it was during his two four-year terms that he launched his life’s work - Professor José Sarukhán © Andrea Valencia CONABIO. In May, pioneering Mexican Established in 1973, the Tyler Prize for Sarukhán said he was “honoured and ecologist Professor José Sarukhán Environmental Achievement is one of humbled” by the Prize, and attributed was awarded the 2017 Tyler Prize for the first international premier awards for his social responsibility to his mentors, Environmental Achievement for his environmental science, environmental eminent biologist Arturo Gómez-Pompa scientific contributions to the field of health and energy. (himself a Tyler Laureate) and botanist biological diversity and institution- Dr. Efraim Hernández Xolocotzi. building. Tyler Prize Executive Committee Chair Julia Marton-Lefèvre said Sarukhán “Scientists should make people aware was being recognized for identifying Often referred to as the founding of the implications that research has a scientific problem and creating a father of ecological research in Mexico, on their surroundings and their own solution that was built into his nation’s the University of Wales Graduate is health. I believe that academia has a laws and regulations: among the best-known ecologists and contract with society, to be outspoken if conservation scientists in the world information is not being used the way it “Few scientists could convince should be - perhaps because of political a President to find budget for a At a time when the fate of Mexico’s or economical reasons. I know that not federal-level conservation agency rainforests were in critical danger from everyone is built to do that kind of work, - but Sarukhán did, and because extensive land clearing, then-Mexican but if one feels they can take on this of that, Mexico’s forests now have President Carlos Salinas turned to role, which might be called activism or an institutional watchdog actively Sarukhán for advice on how to show politics, I think one has to do it,” said protecting their biodiversity. Sarukhán the global community that the country Sarukhán”. valued its natural resources. In response has made sure that his science has led to practical solutions that are changing Sarukhán masterminded a federal Sarukhán was honoured at an Award peoples’ lives and changing the way government department focused Ceremony in Washington DC on the 4th the environment is able to provide us a entirely on biodiversity - one of the of May. As the winner of the Tyler Prize, home for the future”. first of its kind in the world. It became he received a $200,000 cash prize and known as CONABIO, the ‘National now joins the ranks of laureates that Sarukhán’s interest in plant ecology Commission for the Knowledge and include Jane Goodall and E.O Wilson. Use of Biodiversity’. Now in its 25th began as an undergraduate biology student at the National Autonomous anniversary year, CONABIO runs what is For more information about the award, University of Mexico (UNAM). He considered as the largest, electronically and to read more about Sarukhán’s completed his Masters at the Colegio accessible, national biodiversity life and achievements, please visit their de Posgraduados near Mexico City and database in the world, with over 11.2 website - www.tylerprize.usc.edu million specimens. went on to receive his from the University of Wales, studying at the The Transformed University Connected to our past, looking to the future

As we progress towards merger, it is imperative that the contribution that the University of Wales has made to the Welsh Higher Education sector, and the country as a whole, is not forgotten and that its legacy is ensured for future generations. This view is supported by UWTSD, with whom we share many core values.

As custodian of many important academic and cultural assets, the University has already taken steps to ensure that these are protected and continue to benefit the whole of Wales, both during and after merger. University of Wales Registry

The University of Wales has a long Brought into being through the Announced in 2012, Adduned Cymru – and proud history, and has played an determination, enthusiasm for learning, The Wales Pledge is a series of strategic important role in the development of and generosity of ordinary , arrangements, including the establishment higher . the establishment of the University of of a number of charitable bodies, which Wales by Royal Charter in 1893 was will safeguard the traditional services Over the years the University has adapted regarded as one of the most important associated with the University, and ensure in order to continue to be at the heart of political and social developments in the these assets serve the purpose for which the nation’s academic, intellectual and nineteenth century. they were originally intended. cultural life, and in October 2011, it was announced that the University of Wales Through the University’s support for the We believe that the transformed and the University of Wales Trinity Saint Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic University should respect and uphold the David (UWTSD) had made the significant Studies (CAWCS), Geiriadur Prifysgol historic cultural legacy and the mission and historic decision to merge. Cymru (The Welsh Dictionary), Gregynog given to the University of Wales by our Hall (bequeathed to the University in the predecessors, whilst also adapting in order Supporting Welsh Government policy 1960’s) and the University of Wales Press, to respond to the needs of students and at the time for the restructuring of the it has helped to promote and celebrate employers, both in Wales and further higher education sector in Wales, the the language, heritage and culture of afield. In these changing and challenging process of integration is to be completed Wales. times, the time is right for structural in August of this year. change.

1971: St David’s College, Wales’ 1828: 1922: oldest degree-awarding institution, suspends its own St David’s College, University of degree-awarding powers , receives first Wales Press and enters the University of Royal Charter 1904: founded 1960: Wales. Later changes name 1988: University of Wales UWIST and University Gregynog to the University of Wales, Registry established Lampeter (1996) College Cardiff merge in Cardiff bequeathed 1828 to University

1893: 1920: 1931: 1967: 1985: 2003: University of Wales founded A fourth college, The Welsh The University of Centre for The Cardiff Institute with three foundation University College National School Wales Institute Advanced of Higher Education colleges in Aberystwyth, Swansea, added of Medicine of Science and Welsh and Celtic (later UWIC) and Bangor and Cardiff; Great incorporated Technology (UWIST) Studies (CAWCS) the Gwent College of Seal affixed to the Royal enters the federal established Higher Education (later Charter which constitutes university the University of Wales, the University of Wales Newport) become full constituent institutions

8 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 9

Our merger partner, UWTSD, was opportunity to celebrate the historic founding institutions to drive forward itself formed through the merger of contributions that all members of the a radical new education system that three – University of Wales UWTSD Group have made to education addresses the specific needs of Wales Lampeter, Trinity University College in Wales. whilst also providing programmes that are and Swansea Metropolitan attractive to students from all parts of the University. UWTSD is the oldest Royal UWTSD’s main campuses are situated in UK and internationally. Chartered University in Wales and is various locations in and around Swansea’s proud to have as its Patron His Royal city centre as well as in the rural towns of It will be committed to placing students Highness, the Prince of Wales. Establishing Lampeter and Carmarthen in South West at the centre of its mission by providing a such a confederation offers an integrated Wales. The Wales International Academy relevant and inspiring bilingual curriculum, Further and Higher Education approach of Voice is located in Cardiff and the providing a supportive learning to education for the benefit of learners, University also has a Business School in environment, investing in its campuses employers and communities in Wales. London for international students. and facilities and ensuring that students, The merger with the University of Wales from all backgrounds, are given the will complete the establishment of a The transformed University will build opportunity to achieve their potential. transformed University, and will be an upon the excellence and heritage of its Working in partnership with the Welsh Government and other academic and civil institutions in Wales, the transformed University will continue the long historic tradition of developing and delivering educational services which celebrate the distinctiveness of Wales and support the aspirations of a dynamic country which plays its part on an international stage.

Graduates can find out more information about the ongoing merger process, and Carmarthen Campus Alex Design Exchange, Swansea future plans, on our merger website - www.university.wales

Designed to sit alongside and complement the existing individual websites of each institution, this website has been created specifically to provide updates about the latest developments and news related to the merger, as well as information about joint initiatives and projects being formed between the two institutions.

London Campus Lampeter Campus

2010: 2012: 2015: The University of Wales Swansea Metropolitan Formation of the UW Trinity Saint David University and Restricted Endowment Trust formed through the University of 2007: (UWRET) to manage the merger of the University Wales Trinity Saint numerous donations and University changes from a federal of Wales, Lampeter David merger; bequests received by the structure to a confederation of and Trinity University Announcement of the University over the years 1988: independent higher education College Carmarthen creation of Adduned UWIST and University institutions; The Royal Welsh by supplemental Royal Cymru - The Wales College Cardiff merge College of Music and Drama Charter Pledge leaves the University 2017

2004: 2008: 2011: 2013: 2017: ceases to be a Aberystwyth, Bangor University of Wales announces University of Wales, Integration of the constituent institution; North East and Swansea its decision to merge with The Newport leaves University of Wales Wales Institute of Higher Education Universities decide to University of Wales Trinity the University and University of (now Glyndwˆr University), leave the University Saint David and Swansea and merges with Wales Trinity Saint Swansea Institute of Higher Education, and award their own Metropolitan University under the University of David Trinity College, Carmarthen, and the degrees the charter of to form Royal Welsh College of Music and Wales Trinity Saint David. the University of Drama admitted to the University of Cardiff Metropolitan University South Wales Wales as full constituent members decides to leave the University and award their own degrees. Stories of the Saints Saints populate the landscape of Wales in place-names, church dedications and holy wells. From St Fagans to Llandudno, St Davids to Pennant Melangell, the names of saints are bound up with the very fabric of the country. Some, like David and Beuno, are well known, but many are forgotten.

Over the past four years, The Cult of These Medieval Welsh ‘biographies’ of Saints in Wales research project at the the saints preserves a wealth of tradition University of Wales Centre for Advanced concerning local saints in Wales, as well as Welsh and Celtic Studies (CAWCS), in saints known across the Christian world. collaboration with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, the National Library In addition, further visual material from of Wales and King’s College London, has the collection of the National Library of focused on medieval Welsh-language Wales was added around the walls of the literature devoted to the veneration gallery. This included paintings of St David of saints. Scholars at the Centre and by Hugh Williams and Evan Walters, and collaborating institutions have been editing designs and cartoons of stained glass and translating medieval Welsh saints’ windows of saints by Celtic Studios, A.L. lives, poetry addressed to the saints, and Wilkinson and John Petts. The exhibition saintly genealogies as part of the Arts also included photographs of medieval and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) images of saints in paint, stained glass and funded project. sculpture from churches around Wales. research on medieval saints’ lives through As the project drew to a close, an exhibition The medieval literature is soon to be new editions and translations of the Latin of medieval manuscripts containing published on a dedicated website. This texts, in association with the University of lives and genealogies of the saints, and electronic edition of some 100 medieval Cambridge. poetry addressed to them, was held at Welsh-language texts will comprise poems, the National Library of Wales. Running prose lives and genealogies with high The project will continue to hold a series from February to June, the exhibition quality digital images of many of the of half-day events sharing new research demonstrated the survival of medieval manuscripts. Providing reliable modern arising from the project. These will be held traditions about the holy men and women texts with detailed notes and English at the cathedrals of Llandaf, St Asaph, who represent an important part of the translations, it will make a discrete Welsh Lincoln and Gloucester during 2017 and country’s cultural inheritance. hagiographical tradition available for 2018, and a warm welcome is extended study both inside and outside Wales. The to all. The exhibition featured some important website will also host a compendium medieval Welsh manuscripts, such as the of information on the saints and their For more information about the project, Hendregadredd, the Book of Llandaf, and traditions, and this will continue to develop and upcoming events, visit - the Llanbeblig Hours, alongside some early as the result of a new project that has www.welshsaints.ac.uk modern recusant manuscripts containing recently been funded by the AHRC. Vitae late medieval saints’ lives and poetry. Sanctorum Cambriae: The Latin Lives Photos © Martin Crampin, by permission of the Welsh Saints, will continue new of the National Library of Wales 10 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 11 New Director for University of Wales Press

The University of Wales is delighted to announce that Natalie Williams has been appointed as the new Director of the University of Wales Press.

to be joining my fellow advocates within the Welsh community to further this mission. These are times of change within both the University and publishing landscapes, which bring challenges but provide a wealth of exciting opportunities for the Press. Together with a passionate and dedicated team, I look forward to continuing and growing the educational excellence of the Press both at home and abroad.”

The Press is in a unique position as the only not-for-profit academic press in Wales, and with the support of the University of Wales it has been able to remain faithful to its founding mission.

Welcoming Natalie to the University of Wales Press, Professor Medwin Hughes, Vice-chancellor of the University of Wales, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Natalie to this role on behalf of the University and all her new colleagues. Over the past century, Natalie Williams the University of Wales Press has provided a platform for Wales’s foremost thinkers Born and bred in Cardiff, Natalie brings by publishing outstanding scholarly and has contributed to the building of a great understanding of the publishing publications in both Welsh and English to modern Wales. Its role in furthering the world to the role. Achieving a BA (Hons) further knowledge and to inspire scholars understanding of Wales’s unique culture, in English Literature and Philosophy at the and students alike. Since its foundation, history, heritage, language and politics is University of Southampton, she started UWP has published over 3,500 titles, and critical.” her publishing career in academic Law at at present publishes around 50 titles a Oxford University Press. She then moved year, primarily in the fields of European Mr Tony Ball, Chair of the University of on to Nelson Thornes, where she held studies, philosophy, literature, history, and Wales Press Board and University Council the role of Senior Publisher responsible Welsh and Celtic studies. Since 2009, its member, added: for its secondary Maths portfolio and UK e-book publication list has risen to around publishing strategy. For the past three 300 currently available digital editions. “Natalie joins the University of Wales years, Natalie has run her own consultancy Press at a very exciting time. As well as business, working for publishers including Speaking about her new role, which consolidating its worldwide reputation for Oxford University Press, Cambridge officially started in April, Natalie said: academic publishing, she will be looking University Press, Hodder Education, for new areas of opportunity following Pearson Education and HarperCollins “I am thrilled to be joining the University the merger of the University of Wales and alongside undertaking an Executive Master of Wales Press as Director, and I feel University of Wales Trinity Saint David. of Business Administration at Cardiff proud to have the opportunity to lead In addition, preparations will begin to University. an institution that has the heritage and celebrate the approaching centenary history of Wales at its heart. The Press of the Press. We are confident she is Founded in 1922, the University of plays such a vital role in promoting and knowledgeable, experienced and will be Wales Press (UWP) has a proud tradition protecting Welsh language, community, a great asset in leading the Press over the of serving Wales and all its universities culture and research, and I am honoured coming years.” Developments within the Swansea Bay City Region

Within both the University and our merger partner the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), there are a number of exciting developments and new initiatives taking place. Community engagement is at the heart of a number of these developments, as well as a commitment to drive social, cultural and economic developments and support Welsh creativity and innovation.

Artists Impression of Yr Egin Canolfan Yr Egin SA1 Swansea Waterfront facilities, and is due for completion in In March, work started on the site of The construction of UWTSD’s new Summer 2018. UWTSD has also made Canolfan S4C Yr Egin - an exciting creative £300 million SA1 Swansea Waterfront significant investment in SA1 through the and digital centre that will be based on development is well under way. Made purchase of the two Technium buildings, UWTSD’s campus in Carmarthen. up of purpose-build facilities for learning, as well as the Cyprium building, all of teaching and applied research, as well which are home to a range of private Canolfan S4C Yr Egin is an ambitious and as recreational spaces, it will deliver on companies, a number of whom are already transformational development that will UWTSD’s vision of a vibrant mixed- collaborating with the university to develop be home to S4C’s main headquarters use neighbourhood, which blends the new products and processes. as well as a number of companies and University’s academic buildings with a organisations working with the creative wide range of commercial, residential, UWTSD’s vision for SA1 Swansea and digital industries. retail and leisure activities. Waterfront is to create a neighbourhood with academic activity at its core to attract The design of the 3,700 square metre Phase one of the development has already companies to collocate with the University building has already received the support commenced to create a new facility for to exploit knowledge, develop skills, of the Design Commission for Wales with the Faculty of Architecture, Computing support existing companies and attract the internal layout of the building focused and Engineering, and Faculty of Education new investment into the region. For more around a public foyer and atrium that and Communities, as well as new library information visit - www.uwtsd.ac.uk/sa1 overarches the three floors. There will be a specific focus on the broadcasting and performance on the ground floor, with a range of offices for S4C and other partners on the other two floors.

As well as being a development that will transform and shape the creative and digital industries in South West Wales and beyond, it will also be a centre that will be at the heart of the community providing opportunities for local people to enjoy the building and its resources - a cafe, auditorium and performance stages. The Centre will open in early summer 2018. For more information visit - www.canolfans4cyregin.cymru

Construction has started on the SA1 site 12 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 13

SA1

CBM Ken Skates AM visits the SA1 Site

Centre for Advanced Batch Dylan Thomas Centre The Centre is also home to 1825 Manufacture (CBM) Located just across the bridge from the Conferences & Events. Offering a The Wales Centre for Advanced Batch SA1 development is the Dylan Thomas complete range of event management Manufacture, known as CBM, is a highly Centre, home to all things literary and services, the Centre’s location within focused advanced research, product cultural for the local area. The University’s the maritime quarter of Swansea’s SA1 development and batch manufacturing investment in the building has enabled area, incorporating Grade 2 Listed status, facility. It provides materials and it to transform into a multi-purpose and enables them to secure conferences from manufacturing solutions to problems multi-occupancy venue open to host a distinguished guests, Governmental Parties across the full spectrum of manufacturing range of events and functions. As well as and Medical conferences, and to host industry and drives innovation, creativity housing the permanent Dylan Thomas concerts and private functions. and entrepreneurship among companies Love the Words exhibition, facilities at the engaged in new product development and Centre also include incubation space for Ensuring its place within the local low-volume manufacture. businesses interested in establishing a community, the Centre is also a venue for presence in Swansea. The popular 1825 many of the City’s cultural festivals such Jointly established by the University Coffee Shop is ideally situated next to as the Swansea International Jazz Festival, of Wales and UWTSD, CBM is a core the exhibition and sells both hot and as well as hosting community workshops, component of the Innovation Quarter in cold dishes, a variety of freshly made awards ceremonies and gala dinners. For UWTSD’s prestigious SA1 development. It sandwiches, ciabattas and delicious more information visit: www.1825.wales plays an important role in contributing to homemade cakes. the wider aspirations of this development and in helping to define Swansea as a ‘City of Innovation’.

Staff within CBM have extensive experience of working at the interface between industry, applied research and knowledge transfer activities. CBM specialises in doctoral level applied research and has established a cohort of PhD researchers, who play a key role in developing the research profile of the centre and enhancing its capabilities.

CBM has an established reputation for providing practical and innovative solutions to a wide range of international companies. For more information visit: www.cbmwales.co.uk

The 1825 Coffee Shop at the Dylan Thomas Centre Graduates part of Oscar-winning team In February, three University of Wales Graduates were part of a winning team awarded an Oscar at the 89th Academy Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles.

Daniel Williams, Ryan Morgan and Jens University as a Developer to work on The Swansea College of Art and Design in Hansen, along with their colleagues, were Jungle Book, he has since moved on to 2014, he joined the Modelling & Texturing awarded an Oscar for Best Visual Effects work on films likePassengers, Ghost in the department at MPC in London. Ryan for their work on the feature filmThe Shell, Pirates of the Caribbean, and now, has worked as Modelling and Texturing Jungle Book. The Lion King. Director on recent blockbusters Passengers, Fantastic 4 and Fantastic Beasts. He has All Film and Digital Media graduates from Jens, graduated in 2015 from the same also worked on the character ‘Groot’ for the University of Wales Trinity Saint David course and is now working as technical the Marvel movie Guardians of the Galaxy, (UWTSD), they now all work for the Moving director specialising in rendering at MPC. and is now working on Disney’s Lion King, Picture Company (MPC) - one of the Jens works closely with a vast team of as well as Alien: Covenant and The Dark world’s leading post production facilities visual effects artists to help to realise the Tower. creating high-end digital visual effects for visual worlds of many recent blockbusters the television and feature film industries. such as Ghost in the Shell, Fantastic Beasts In January, this year, Ryan took part in a and X-Men Apocalypse. Speaking about his two-day animation industry event put on Daniel graduated in 2014 from the time at University, he said: by the School of Film and Digital Media, University’s BSc (Hons) Visual Effects which offered students the opportunity to degree course. Speaking about the course “My time at the university gave me the participate in talks and workshops from and how it helped to provide a perfect chance to explore my interests and develop industry professionals from all over the Launchpad for an exciting career in the my abilities through varied coursework and world. specialised industry, he said: collaboration with my peers. I believe the experience was integral to my personal Professor Ian Walsh, Dean of Swansea “I enrolled at UWTSD as soon as I found and professional development leading to College of Art at UWTSD said: out they had the course available. I had a my career in VFX. I now work as a Render passion for the artistic side of VFX (Visual TD at the Moving Picture Company where “All the lecturers and professional staff Effects) rather than the technical at first, my role consists of developing internal at UWTSD’s Swansea College of Art are but after some time on the course and tools used by a global team on most of the delighted at Ryan, Jens and Daniel’s working on a few projects with peers, I major films we work on. “ success. It’s one of the best parts of the realised that the technical side of things is job to see our graduates flourish in their what I wanted to do.” Ryan, who graduated from the University’s chosen careers. Their Oscar winning 3D Computer Animation Degree Course, success is a credit to their hard work and Daniel currently works on the Shading is now a successful visual effects artist. a tribute to the lecturers who supported team at MPC London. Hired shortly after After graduating from the University’s them during their studies here in Swansea.”

Daniel Williams, Ryan Morgan and Jens Hansen

14 Campus: The Magazine for University of Wales Alumni 15 Alumni Association Branches and Sections Bangor - Our 2016/17 programme event in 2017, the Ethnology Section in the year, in June, Dr Ruth Hussey, opened in November with a lecture by is co-operating with other sections of formerly Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Professor Mari Lloyd-Williams. The title the Alumni Association in organising a outlined recent advances in medicine and of the lecture was “Four Score Years and conference at the National Library of some of the current issues in the Health Ten - how can communities support Wales on 14 October to celebrate the Service but emphasized the importance older people living with multiple illness tercentenary of the birth of Williams of prevention, achieved by not smoking, in older age”. It was an inspirational Pantycelyn. As a taster, a talk by our regular exercise, healthy eating and lecture about her professional work and chairman, Professor E. Wyn James, at the keeping weight down. also her Waungoleuged chapel, where Library, is scheduled for 6 September, comprehensive day care is provided for under the title Williams Pantycelyn Philosophy - The past year was a people from far and near. Our second through his Letters. Plans to publish two busy time as usual for the philosophy lecturer was the journalist Tweli Griffiths. In collections of papers by the renowned section, with the annual conference February, he discussed his autobiography ethnologist and former President of the at Aberystwyth in November, and Yn Ei Chanol Hi, and a good number of Section, Trefor M. Owen, who died in preparation for the next volume in the people came to listen to the author relating 2015, continue apace. Professor E. Wyn Astudiaethau Athronyddol series. The some of the tales described in the volume. James and Dr Emma Lile will edit the conference was on the theme of the In March, the third lecturer, Wil Aaron, Welsh and English volumes respectively, relationship between Philosophy and the discussed his book Poeri i Lygad yr Eliffant. which will include chapters on community Arts with contributions by Dr Huw Rees He also had plenty of entertaining stories studies; work and society; traditional on comedy, Dr Rhiannon M Williams on about his detailed research into the history customs; and social perspectives in Welsh the Chapel and Performance, and Dr Aled of the Welsh Mormons who ventured to vernacular architecture. Lion Jones discussing medieval literature. the Western United States of America. The forthcoming volume will focus on Next year’s programme of lectures will German - As usual, the highlight of our the philosophy of JR Jones, former Head soon be available. year was the annual Symposium, this of the Swansea Philosophy Department year held in Hamburg in May. Members and preparations are ongoing to launch Classics - One of the main events on travelled from across Germany to take the volume at the Eisteddfod. The next the Classical Section’s annual calendar part in three interesting discussion conference will be held in September is its National Eisteddfod meeting. In topics. The first was presented by Olaf and will look at the developments and Abergavenny, at the Schulze, Director of Energy Management changes in politics over recent years. and District Eisteddfod 2016, a lecture Metro Group, who outlined the We are very pleased to announce that was given by Professor Ceri Davies, energy awareness programme of his Professor Steve Edwards has taken over Swansea, recalling the distinguished international company and the significant as President of the Section, succeeding contribution of the classicist Sir D. Emrys savings which could be achieved. The Gwynn Matthews who has done so much Evans (1891-1966). It was most fitting, other two topics were on the subject important work in his time in the post. We at a meeting arranged in the name of of Brexit. Professor Simon Jones spoke thank him for his contribution! one of the University of Wales Alumni about why and how it came about, Association sections, to pay tribute - fifty and Dr. Jörg Klaus Baumgart followed Sri Lanka - The Sri Lankan branch of the years after his death - to a scholar who with a talk concerning its consequences University of Wales Alumni Association was a Professor, a Principal and a Vice- and opportunities. The following day has close ties to the Imperial Institute Chancellor in the University, and also members took a tour of the newly build of Higher Education (IIHE). Over 1000 the Classical Section’s first President. Elphilharmonie, one of the largest and students have graduated from the BSc This year, at the Anglesey Eisteddfod, most acoustically advanced concert halls in Business Management and MBA the Section will commemorate another in the world. We look forward to our next programmes at the centre awarded by notable Welsh classicist. A lecture on Symposium in June 2018 in Hamburg and the University of Wales, and it forms the T. Hudson-Williams and his Classical invite all German UW graduates to join hub of the Sri Lankan Branch activity. Career will be delivered by Samuel Jones our strong Alumni community. We are keen to recruit more members on Monday, 7 August 2017, at 12.00 and utilise the networking capabilities noon, in Societies Pavilion 1. Liverpool - The Liverpool Branch held of our graduates, many who hold senior two very well attended meetings during management positions within both Sri Ethnology and Folk Studies - In August, 2016. In January, Sandra Parr, the Artistic Lanka and on an international level. With 2016, the Section held its first annual Planning Director of the Royal Liverpool the branch evolving, an activity group has lecture at the National Eisteddfod in Philharmonic Orchestra, gave a wide- been created to help expand membership Abergavenny, where the Section’s ranging talk of life behind the platform and arrange more events. To find out President, Dr Eurwyn Wiliam, delivered at the ‘Phil’. It provided a glimpse of the more about the branch please contact Ms a presentation entitled The Brynmawr complexity of drawing up the programme Anne Pendigrast on +94112598005, and Furniture Experiment: the Quaker for the year ahead and the formidable please visit this link for registration: Initiative in South Wales, 1928-1940. logistics of arranging overseas tours by http://bit.ly/2u84Di3 Rather than hosting its own one-day the orchestra as far afield as Japan. Later

For more information about the Branches and Sections currently in existence, please visit www.wales.ac.uk/Alumni university Wales press New aNd curreNt books University of Wales Press www.uwp.co.uk of tel: 029 2049 6899 email: [email protected]

Why Wales Never Was all ThaT is Wales The Failure oF Welsh a PoliTiCal liFe iN Wales aNd The ColleCTed essays oF NaTioNalism WesTmiNsTer m. WyNN Thomas simon Brooks rhodri morgan May 2017 • 216 x 138mm June 2017 • 216 x 138mm September 2017 • 234 x 156mm HB ISBN: 9781786830883 • £75.00 PB ISBN: 9781786830128 • £16.99 HB ISBN: 9781786831477 • £24.99 PB ISBN: 9781786830890 • £24.99

discoveriNg dylaN ThoMas The arThUriaN Place NaMes a ComPaNioN To The ColleCted of Wales Poems aNd NoTeBook Poems scott lloyd John Goodby March 2017 • 234 x 156mm March 2017 • 216 x 138mm PB ISBN: 9781786830258 • £29.99 PB ISBN: 9781783169634 • £24.99

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University of Wales Alumni Association Thanks Email: [email protected] With thanks to everyone who contributed Telephone: +44 (0) 29 2037 6999 to this issue www.facebook.com/universityofwales Website: www.wales.ac.uk/alumni Address: University Registry King Edward VII Avenue The continued support of Ede & www.twitter.com/uniwales Cardiff Ravenscroft towards publication costs is CF10 3NS greatly appreciated

Editor: Jocelyn Keedwell www.linkedin.com Design: Yogi Communications (Search for University of Wales)

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