CONVERSATION & NEWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF SUMMER/AUTUMN 2013

FROM ABERDEEN TO THE WORLD World Whisky Day creator toasts more success

BRAND NEW FESTIVAL First May Festival brings out the blossom on campus

A SOCIABLE SUCCESS STORY Aberdeen graduate James Withers on his successful career in ’s food and drink industry

ALUMNI AND CAMPUS NEWS VOICE 

Editors FEATURES ALUMNI NEWS Emma Brooks Senior Marketing Officer 3 20-23 [email protected] A Word From the Alumni Profiles ALUMNI RELATIONS Principal James Withers KAREN SCAIFE Julia Harvie-Liddel Alumni Relations Officer 4/5 [email protected] May Festival 24-26 Alumni News Communications 6/7 Shaunagh Kirby Head of Communications Plaque to the Future [email protected]

8/9 Jennifer Phillips Royal Composer Hopes Senior Communications Officer to Inspire New Choral [email protected] Maestros EUAN WEMYSS © 2013 University of Communications Officer 10/11 Aberdeen [email protected] Development Trust: www.abdn.ac.uk Laura mccombie A New Phase Communications Officer Designed & Produced by [email protected] Hampton Associates 12/13 Aberdeen, Tel: 01224 620562 Voice magazine Strong Links with Hong www.hamptonassociates.com Kong & Lord Wilson King’s College Printed by Scholarships Aberdeen Polestar, Bicester Scotland AB24 3FX Paper sourced from sustainable forests 14/15 Principal & Vice- Campus News Professor SIR Ian 16 Diamond FBA FRSE AcSS A Mutual Honour

17 TO KEEP UP TO DATE Events and Exhibitions WITH NEWS FROM YOUR UNIVERSITY: 18/19 Student Profile Blair Bowman Follow us on twitter: @aberdeenuni

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Welcome to the Summer 2013 edition of the 20th century from which it has gone on The Festival offered something for everyone, of Voice. As alumni of the University, I want to establish a worldwide reputation as a centre for all ages and interests, and with events to particularly draw your attention to the of excellence in nutritional health research, taking place in a range of venues across news inside this issue of Voice of Lord Wilson with three Nobel Prize winners to its name. Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire it was accessible of Tillyorn’s retirement as Chancellor of the Researchers at the Institute have significantly to everyone. The University is proud of the role University and the election of his successor influenced the development of public health it has in enhancing the cultural and intellectual Her Royal Highness The Duchess of policy in the UK and beyond, and there is no life of its region and beyond. We continue to Rothesay. Lord Wilson has been an absolutely doubt that the work of the Institute and its do that with this exciting new addition to the  outstanding ambassador for the University and staff has had a major impact on the prevention North-East’s calendar of events. its alumni over the past fifteen years. We are of illness from poor diet and nutrition. hugely grateful to him for all that he has done Professor Sir Ian Diamond These are all achievements that should be FBA FRSE AcSS for Aberdeen during that time both at home proudly celebrated. The Centenary is also, Principal and and abroad. however, an occasion to look ahead at the Vice-Chancellor While we are sad to see Lord Wilson step exciting and important future that the Rowett down, we are nonetheless delighted that Her Institute has as part of the University. The Royal Highness The Duchess of Rothesay research agenda of the Rowett remains a has succeeded him as Chancellor. Her Royal hugely important one, particularly given Highness has visited the University on a the rising rates of obesity. The merger with number of occasions in recent years and has the University in 2008 has opened up new taken a keen interest in the achievements of opportunities for the Institute to work our staff and students. She will be a wonderful with academics in other areas and to forge international ambassador for the University multi-disciplinary approaches. In 2014/15, in keeping with our status as a global centre the Rowett will begin its second century by of teaching and research and she is warmly relocating to a new purpose built research welcomed to the University family. I am also facility at the centre of our Foresterhill health delighted that Professor Iain Torrance will campus. Being located next to scientists, return to the University as Pro-Chancellor to clinicians and patients in one of the biggest support Her Royal Highness. Iain is a highly biomedical campuses in Europe, will help the respected figure as an academic, a former Institute to expand its research capacity and to Dean here at Aberdeen and as immediate past undertake more of the world-leading work it President of Princeton Theological Seminary. has become known for throughout its history. In addition he is a former Moderator of the Finally, in the pages that follow you can learn General Assembly of the . about the May Festival – a new and diverse Over the 10-12 of May, the He too will be a wonderful ambassador for Festival that the University was proud to Festival showcaseD the many the University. launch. The University has taken great pride strengths of the University with This issue celebrates another milestone in over recent years in organising events that events spanning science, music, the history of the University with a number have proved hugely popular with a range of literature, film, Gaelic, and food of stories linked to the celebration this year audiences across the North-East and beyond. and nutrition. of the centenary of the Rowett Institute of The May Festival builds on our record of Nutrition and Health. Over the past century, success in organising the Word Festival and the Institute has been at the forefront of as host of the hugely popular 2012 British advancing our understanding of both animal Science Festival. Over the 10-12 of May, the and human nutritional health and has recorded Festival showcased the many strengths an impressive number of achievements. The of the University with events spanning Institute played a key role in establishing the science, music, literature, film, Gaelic, and food link between diet and health in the early part and nutrition.

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Photos: A young festival-goer proudly shows off his new look after a visit to the May Festival face painter 4 Kilted Chef Craig Wilson, of the Eat on the Green restaurant, rustled up some treats for festival goers Aberdeen graduate Gordon Cameron returned to campus to give an insight into what it is like to work at DisneyPixar FEATURES VOICE First May Festival brings out the blossom on campus

Over a (mostly) sunny weekend in May, With the support of principal sponsor energy festival fever was back on campus with the giant Saudi Aramco, Marathon Oil supporting University’s first ever May Festival. yet again the Children’s Festival, and Talisman Energy, the King’s campus welcomed the Building on the well-loved and long-running likes of TV presenter and scientist Dr James Word writers festival ­­­­‒ and the hugely successful Logan, Word favourites Alasdair Gray and British Science Festival visit in 2012 ­­­­‒ this year’s Liz Lochhead, Chapel concerts featuring the May event aimed to offer both serious and exquisite singing of Dame Emma Kirkby and light-hearted events to suit all tastes – quite Jeremy Huw Williams, Gaelic singer Julie literally! Fowlis, and new talent including Aberdeen In this Rowett Centenary year, the annual graduate Gordon Cameron recounting his Boyd Orr lecture in a packed King’s auditorium career in bringing to ‘life’ much loved characters heard Dr Francesco Branco, Director of including Nemo, Ratatouille, Woody and Buzz Nutrition at WHO, considering how close the Lightyear. world is now to achieving the Rowett founder’s The weekend drew to a close with a thought- dream of feeding the globe. Food proved a provoking Question-Time debate on some tasty theme throughout the weekend – from of the greatest global challenges of our time, demonstrations and top tips from some of and the presentation of awards to University Scotland’s leading chefs to the enticing waft researchers who are breaking new ground in of the BBQ on King’s Lawn beside the busy engaging the public in their research, following festival marquees. A popular ‘first’ was the which an all-singing-all-dancing Variety Show local Produce Market which filled Elphinstone saw some of the University’s finest talent take Hall with tempting samples of delicious to the stage before bringing the curtain down baking, chocolate, chutneys and much more, all on the festival.  produced here in North-East Scotland, while on the Sunday a Hack ‘n Make showcased clever ideas, projects, crafts, inventions, products and hacks in a vibrant fair-style event. With over 100 events on seven different themes – word, food, discover, music, science, If you are interested in finding out more about the Gaelic, and film – the weekend aimed to May Festival, visit: provide something for everyone, from the www.abdn.ac.uk/mayfestival or for more photos young to the slightly more mature visit www.facebook.com/universityofaberdeen (but still young at heart!)

Photos: Margaret Bennett delighted youngsters with a bilingual look at the Further Tales of Peter Rabbit 5 VOICE 

PLAQUE TO THE FUTURE

he focus may be in the UK and abroad DNA from tartar found “This provides us with a T “BEING ABLE TO TRACK on the teeth of ancient completely new window on things that happened but work carried out THROUGH TIME HAS skeletons. The investigation on how people lived and in the past but there is by archaeologists at the HUGE IMPLICATIONS revealed how the evolution died in the past. Knowing always something new University has revealed a FOR UNDERSTANDING of humans from hunter- the real genetic history and exciting happening previously hidden cache of THE ORIGINS AND gatherers to farmers and of diseases we still suffer in the University of information about how our HISTORY OF HUMAN the more recent move to from today will help Aberdeen’s archaeology changing diet – from the HEALTH – MAKING THE eating processed flours and us better understand department that is Stone Age to current day – ARCHAEOLOGICAL sugars has had a massive and even treat them,” relevant to modern has affected our health. RECORD EXTREMELY impact on the bacteria that Professor Dobney said. society. RELEVANT AND The project, co-led by live inside our mouths. IMPORTANT TO MODERN- The obesity epidemic Professor Keith Dobney The results have provided DAY MEDICS AND continues to dominate in collaboration with the a timeline of how disease GENETICISTS.” news headlines and University of Adelaide, and illnesses have evolved public health policy extracted and analysed over 7,500 years.

Photo: Late Iron Age/Roman woman showing large dental calculus deposit 6 from Cambridge area (credit: Professor Alan Cooper) FEATURES VOICE

‘The Craw Stane’ – a Pictish Standing stone at Rhynie, Urgency isn’t materials preserved by Aberdeenshire something one would permafrost. The collection necessarily associate is one of the biggest with archaeology but and best-preserved ever when the inhabitants recovered from the Arctic. of a frozen Alaskan The exhibition’s curator village on the shores of and director of the the Bering Sea called archaeological excavation, for assistance over Dr Rick Knecht, said: fears their heritage “This is an opportunity would eventually be to break some new lost to coastal erosion ground in terms of – speed was of the museum partnerships and essence. outreach with indigenous communities in the north. Residents of the Yup’ik We began this project village of Quinhagak in at the village’s request western Alaska called in because rising sea levels archaeologists from the are eroding the sites and University of Aberdeen to objects like entire masks carry out a rescue dig after were washing up on area observing their coastline beaches.” From ancient teeth to being washed away as a The introduction of understood Pictish consequence of global Standout objects from processed foods has medieval kingdoms – stronghold at Burghead warming. Within hours Nunalleq include Yupi’k resulted in the bacteria another archaeology in Moray, and a ‘royal’ of beginning the dig, the masks, intricately carved in our mouths being project aims to track palisade and ‘villa’ at team, working alongside wooden dolls, and ivory far less diverse, which the rise and fall of the Rhynie, Aberdeenshire. local archaeologists carvings such as a tiny has allowed cavity- Pictish kingdoms in figurine of a palraiyuk - a Dr Gordon Noble (leader and villagers, located a causing strains to the North and North- monster from Yup’ik of the project) said: prehistoric settlement thrive. Ironically, the East of Scotland legend which was said to “The major legacies of site which was falling into introduction of sugar that were important have lurked in rivers and the Picts include some the sea. and carbohydrates political players in lakes in ancient times. of the most spectacular contributed to the post-Roman Europe. The site was named archaeological sites and The material from increase in dental ‘Nunalleq’ (the old village) artistic achievements of Nunalleq is owned by the plaque that now holds During the first by village elders and was a Early Medieval European Qanirtuuq Corporation millennium AD, the winter village dating from the vital information (owned and operated by society. 1350-1650AD. Within, the scientists are Pictish Kingdoms that the people of Quinhagak) the team uncovered tens studying. emerged in northern “We have teams at three and is on temporary Scotland stretched from sites in northern Scotland of thousands of rarely Professor Dobney loan to the University of North-East Scotland to including a 6th-9th seen artefacts made from added: “Until now Aberdeen until the end of and Orkney, century monastery at wood and other organic  we’ve had to rely September 2013. until the late 9th and 10th Portmahomack which was mainly on indirect centuries when pressure destroyed by Viking raids Ivory carving of a evidence or historical from Viking incursions between 780 and 830 palraiyuk - a monster documents to tell us from Yup’ik legend and the political rise AD and was the subject what people ate and of Gaelic kingship of Scotland’s biggest ever what kind of illnesses and identity led to the excavation in 1996. they suffered from in absorption of the Picts the past. But now we “We also have teams into the political entity can directly extract at Burghead, which is known as Alba. genetic information on known as ‘the capital of diet and health from The Northern Picts the Picts’ due to the fort the tartar on teeth – project will examine the which is over three times which is very abundant evolution of three key the size of other known and well-preserved landscapes of power in early medieval forts from in the archaeological Northern Pictland - the Scotland. And we are record – we have a landscape context of examining the Pictish totally new source of the Pictish monastery stones at Rhynie, where If you are interested in finding out more contact Professor Keith Dobney: [email protected] unique information at Portmahomack in there’s evidence the stones stretching back Easter Ross; the largest were once part of an www.abdn.ac.uk/archaeology thousands of years.” identified, but poorly important royal site.”

7 VOICE  Royal composer hopes to inspire new choral maestros

Choirs have suddenly found themselves back in fashion and taking centre stage all over the country – including at the University of Aberdeen.

Choral composer and choral music and will be guided “I am absolutely overwhelmed and level and with The Gramophone University Professor, Paul Mealor and helped in the finding of their delighted to be able to say that Award-winning, Dunedin has achieved mainstream success own distinctive voice through among our visiting fellows we will Consort conducted by John beyond his wildest dreams. Having the study of the great choral be welcoming Professor James Butt OBE on-hand to perform, seen his work featured in the masters, past and present. With O’Donnell KCSG, Organist rehearse students’ compositions, Royal Wedding, as well as reaching the opportunity to work with a and Master of the Choirists at go through editions and offer the top of the charts with his piece professional choir in residence, as Westminster Abbey; Dr Ralph help with performance issues, he sung by the Military Wives choir, well as learning valuable practical Allwood MBE, Director of believes the high calibre of the Professor Mealor is now hoping to skills in choral orchestration, the Eton Choral Course; Lady course is unquestionable. inspire a whole new generation of Susie Digby, Director of Music conducting and choir training, and choral musicians. at Queens College Cambridge, “I really can’t emphasise enough hear their compositions or editions Professor of Choral Music at the just what an exciting course An innovative Masters Degree in performed in concert, students University of Southern California this is, and graduates looking Vocal Music is now part of the really will be able to flourish on this and Director of the London to further enhance their career postgraduate prospectus at the exciting new course. University. One of only a handful Youth Choir; and world renowned prospects and gain more in the country, the course offers Explaining a bit more about composer, Dr James MacMillan experience in the field will exciting prospects for composers, the opportunity which students CBE. I am sure any potential undoubtedly take a lot from it. performers and musicologists with accepted onto the MMus in Vocal students who have a passion for As well as the core content, the a passion for choral music. Music will enjoy, Professor Mealor choral music will be absolutely programme allows the students staggered at the prospect of Under the expert guidance of says: “This course ultimately to input massively into what learning from these greats.” Professor Mealor and other provides students with the they study, with a range of choral specialists, students will opportunity to learn from some Professor Mealor is thrilled that choices that will allow them to be immersed in the technical, of the most tremendous names in the University of Aberdeen is really strengthen their skills in historical and cultural aspects of choral music. able to offer such a course at this their particular area of interest.”

Photo: The Westminster Williamson Voices, conducted by Professor Jordan performing 8 the American premiere of Paul Mealor’s choral masterwork Crucifixus in Princeton FEATURES VOICE

A resurgence of public interest perform so it would be wonderful “When you write this type of Professor Mealor is looking in choirs and vocal music has to see a new generation embrace music, it is also vitally important forward to welcoming tomorrow’s been seen across the country choral music both through singing to have a choir to perform it to choral maestros to the University on the back of projects like the and writing. the highest standard so we are of Aberdeen. Military Wives choir, which delighted to bring the Dunedin He added: “I am proud that we has struck a chord with many. “Since Ubi Caritas was performed Consort on board as choir in are offering this MMus in Vocal Professor Mealor hopes that this at the wedding of the Duke and residence.” Music which is of course one of will continue and help to create a Duchess of Cambridge I have Such is his passion for the new only a small number of its kind in new generation of composers and been overwhelmed by the public’s course, Professor Mealor is the country. I really believe that performers. enthusiasm for my music and I feel providing a scholarship which privileged to have been involved true greatness will be uncovered “Interest in choirs and this type will cover tuition costs for an in projects like the Military Wives as a result of this programme, of vocal music has surged in a outstanding student. placing us at the forefront of what choir. way not seen for generations as could potentially be an extremely “I want those who have the a result of success stories like the “It demonstrates the wide exciting period of time for the passion, drive and talent to really Military Wives. future of choral music.”  appeal of choral music and I’m benefit from this course to do so, “I have many young people delighted that we’re able to offer and so I am delighted to offer writing to me saying that they this opportunity to budding a scholarship to an outstanding composers and musicologists here would like to write choral songs student, who I can only hope will If you are interested in finding out and choirs have enjoyed a real at Aberdeen. go on and do something great more contact Professor Paul Mealor: [email protected] resurgence with many people who “The course is unique in bringing with what they have learned from www.abdn.ac.uk/vocalmusic have never sung in this way before together such recognised talent and the MMus in Vocal Music.” wanting to get involved. will offer students an exceptional Follow Paul on twitter: A second scholarship, provided @PaulMealor “But these choirs need music – experience to learn and develop by Derek Ogston and Margaret and particularly new work – to their skills in choral composition. Carlaw, is also available.

9 VOICE  THE UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN DEVELOPMENT TRUST A New Phase

Aberdeen businessman Sandy Manson appointED new Chair of the DEVELOPMENT Trust

As the University of Aberdeen Development Trust enters an exciting new phase, a family connection to the University going back to the 19th century has been reintroduced with the appointment of Aberdeen businessman Sandy Manson as Chair of the Trust. The cousin of Sandy’s great grandfather was Sir Patrick Manson, an Aberdeen graduate who went on to become ‘the father of tropical medicine’.

Sandy is the CEO of Johnston Carmichael, Scotland’s largest independent accountancy firm. We asked him to tell us about his new role and how he sees the Development Trust building on past successes. “I am honoured and delighted to be appointed as Chairman of the University of Aberdeen Development Trust as it enters an exciting and ambitious new phase. The recent £150 million Sixth Century Campaign was an astonishing success and the whole team at the Trust have a renewed vigour to build on this considerable achievement in the period ahead. Our aim is to raise funds in order to add value to university life while supporting its commitment to excellence and innovation, and under the Principal, Professor Sir Ian Diamond, there are many ambitious plans and projects to keep enhancing its reputation as one of the leading universities of the world. “I have been involved with the Development Trust as a Trustee since July 2012 and have taken over the role of Chair from Lord Wilson who helped the Trust to achieve so much success in recent years. From a personal point of view I’d like to thank him for leading the Trust so effectively as this gives me such a strong position from which to start my tenure. “The University currently has a number of key priorities to deliver including developing and supporting students through scholarships and student societies, enabling global research in many fields including medicine and food and nutrition as well as working in

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The Development Trust has had “Also, a number of the projects we will be tremendous support from so raising funds for will not only benefit our many generous individuals and students but the whole community. The organisations and £35.7 million development of the Aquatics Centre alongside has already been raised towards a Aberdeen Sports Village, for example, is going £60m fundraising target to provide a sporting centre of excellence which will place Aberdeen firmly on the international sporting map. The Centre is going to provide a fully flexible venue which partnership with Aberdeen City Council and will not only cater for world-class elite sportscotland to provide the new Aquatics athletes and students who have the potential Centre which will open in 2014. At the to compete at top-ranking events but for Development Trust, we will be supporting from alumni, friends and benefactors as well absolutely anybody within the community, these priorities while enabling the University as companies, trusts and foundations ensures whatever their experience, age or ability. The to preserve its unique heritage, strengthen its that many activities that benefit students are venue and the facilities within it are going links with the community of North Scotland made possible which otherwise would not be to enable Aberdeen to host national and and support the University’s commitment to achievable. All the support received whether it international competitions at the highest level internationalisation. I’ll be working closely is a £10 regular donation or a larger gift helps which will provide superb opportunities for with my fellow Trustees, the Development our students as well as contributing to the the city and the North-East. Trust staff and the Principal to ensure that huge amount of research that is undertaken at our priorities relate specifically to those of the “Over £1million has already been pledged the University.” University for the benefit of all concerned. for the Centre, including corporate support University of Aberdeen Principal, Professor from Saltire Energy and FirstGroup as well as “I believe that students are the lifeblood of Sir Ian Diamond, is delighted with the new donations from alumni and friends in the UK the University and at the Development Trust appointment and added “It is fantastic for and beyond. There are, however, still excellent we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the University that Mr Manson has been opportunities for supporters to come on board that they receive not only the best education appointed Chairman of the Development and help create one of the best facilities in the but a fuller transformational experience that Trust. He brings with him a wealth of world. will set them up for life. With the support of expertise and experience, and I am sure he will  our worldwide family of alumni, friends and “The Development Trust has had tremendous be a tremendous asset.” benefactors we are able to widen access to support from so many generous individuals higher education and provide students with and organisations and £35.7 million has If you are interested in finding out more about opportunities which greatly enhance their already been raised towards a £60 million supporting the University of Aberdeen please contact Vicki Corbett, Development Manager: studies and learning experiences. The talent fundraising target. With continued support + 44 (0)1224 274111 or email [email protected] we are all helping to nurture and develop will I am confident that we can make our vision www.abdn.ac.uk/giving have the potential to go anywhere and fulfil become a reality for the benefit of both the their dreams. University and the City of Aberdeen. Support

The University of Aberdeen Development Trust is a charity registered in Scotland no SC002938 11 VOICE  The Hong Kong Connection

The appointment of Sandy Manson as Chair of the Development Trust Trustees continues a family association with the University that dates back to the mid 19th century. Sir Patrick Manson was an Aberdeen graduate who went on to become known as “the father of tropical medicine” during an illustrious career, much of which was spent in Hong Kong and .

Born in Oldmeldrum outside Aberdeen After a brief stay in London he returned in 1844, where Sandy Manson and his to Amoy with his new wife in 1876 and family stay to this day, Patrick was said it was during this period of his career, to have carried out his first dissection and through his indepth research, that on a neighbour’s cat, within which he he started to discover the link between found a tapeworm, at the age of 14. It mosquitoes and malaria. His research was clear even at that age that he had an and theory in this area was verified avid interest in biological science which by Ronald Ross who was mentored eventually went on to reap tremendous by Manson and who went on to win a global benefits, including the discovery Nobel Prize. that malaria is spread via mosquitoes. In 1883 Manson moved to Hong His initial interest in mechanics led to an Kong where he set up a successful apprenticeship as a blacksmith at the age private medical practice and his career of 15 but health problems forced him to flourished. Not only did he found the give up engineering and he switched to Hong Kong College of Medicine, which medicine – a fortunate twist of fate for was incorporated into the University of the millions of people whose lives he has Hong Kong in 1912, he also founded the helped to save over the past 150 years. Hong Kong Medical Society, the Alice In 1860 he started studying medicine at Memorial Hospital and the Hong Kong the University of Aberdeen, graduating in Dairy Farm which supplied affordable 1865. The following year he took his elder hygienic milk to pregnant women, brother’s advice and accepted a medical children and patients. officer post in the Customs Service of Manson returned to London in Formosa (now Taiwan) where he started 1889 where he championed the his life-long career in the research of need for specialist education into tropical diseases and how to prevent and tropical diseases, their treatments and treat them. While there he also treated prevention. He founded the London Chinese patients in a local missionary School of Tropical Medicine and hospital where he was exposed to a wide Hygiene in 1899. He was knighted in variety of tropical illnesses. He took time 1903 and died in 1922, leaving behind to befriend the locals and learned the a legacy that continues to save millions languages which helped to break down the of lives. mistrust of western medics and medicine prevalent at that time. The work Manson did in the area of tropical medicine was ground-breaking In 1871 he moved to Amoy (Xiamen) and provided a solid foundation for where alongside his role as medical officer much of the ongoing modern research for the local Imperial Maritime Customs, undertaken. Even to this day he is he again treated the local Chinese patients regarded as one of the most highly at the Baptist Missionary Society’s respected figures in his field and will be Hospital. Taking into account local known forever as “the father of tropical superstition and cultural differences, he medicine”.  modified his operating theatre so that people could watch his operations.

12 FEATURES VOICE CONTINUING STRONG LINKS WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG THE LORD WILSON SCHOLARSHIP

The Hong Kong College of Wilson Scholarship has been Medicine which was founded by established to recognise both Sir Patrick Manson became his remarkable career and his part of the University of Hong fundamental role in the leadership Kong (HKU) when it opened in of the University of Aberdeen. March 1912. The University of Aberdeen The University of Aberdeen operates an International has maintained strong links Exchange Programme with some with HKU throughout its of the world’s most distinguished history and in October 2012 institutions, including The gifted the University a specially University of Hong Kong. Today, commissioned tartan which both institutions continue to share was presented at a ceremony a special relationship through to mark HKU’s centenary. The If you are interested in finding out academic collaborations and gift, which embodies Scottish more about supporting the University exchanges. of Aberdeen please contact Vicki tradition, celebrates the strong Corbett, Development Manager: historic links between the two + 44 (0)1224 274111 or email The Lord Wilson Scholarship [email protected] Universities and the collaborations is available to University www.abdn.ac.uk/giving. that will continue into the next of Aberdeen students who century. Chancellor Lord Wilson The University of Aberdeen Development have been selected as part of Trust is a charity registered in Scotland no of Tillyorn and Vice-Chancellor SC002938. the International Exchange Professor Sir Ian Diamond of the Programme to study at the University of Aberdeen as well as University of Hong Kong. The HKU Vice-Chancellor Professor scholarship is awarded on the Lap-Chee Tsui officiated at the basis of academic merit and covers ceremony. the cost of travel, accommodation During the event the and subsistence for the exchange establishment of a new fund was year up to £10,000. announced, named in honour of Lord Wilson who stepped down If it were not for Sir Patrick as Chancellor of the University Manson’s vision, this special of Aberdeen at the end of 2012. collaboration is unlikely to have Lord Wilson was installed as been developed. His legacy Chancellor in 1997 following a therefore resonates even further career which saw him appointed today as students begin to benefit as 27th Governor of Hong Kong from this significant new exchange from 1987 until 1992. The Lord opportunity. 

Photos: Professor Sir Ian Diamond hands over a certificate of tartan registration to Professor Lap-Chee Tsui of HKU 13 VOICE  CAMPUS NEWS

A royal choice for new Chancellor Library Evolutionary shortlisted for Loop 517 prestigious award

The stunning new Sir Library is one of 25 projects to make it to the finals of The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) 2013 Awards, with the winner announced early summer. Chris Banks, University Librarian and Director of Library, Special Collections and Museums said: “The building has been a magnet for researchers, students and the public since we first opened the doors late in 2011. It has enabled us to showcase some of the Her Royal Highness The including Professor Paul Mealor University’s finest treasures and A new resident took up position Duchess of Rothesay will be who composed the choral motet to attract visitors from around in February this year at the the next Chancellor of the Ubi Caritas for the 2011 Royal the world to see the state of entrance to the academic square University of Aberdeen. Wedding. the art facility and the unique on the west side of King’s collections it now holds. It has campus. The Duchess succeeds Lord Welcoming his successor, Lord inspired art and creativity and, Wilson of Tillyorn, who Wilson said: “I feel privileged to The six metre bronze above all, it is a wonderfully stepped down from the role at have held office as Chancellor sculpture was created by artist inspiring building in which the end of December, having during a time of important Nasser Azam and gifted to to work.” served as Chancellor since transformation at the University. the University by Dr John 1997. I am delighted that the Duchess Meanwhile, the staff of the Sievwright. of Rothesay will be my successor. library were recognised for Despite having the working title HRH will be the University’s I pass on my very best wishes their hard work and dedication, eleventh Chancellor, in a Eclectic Grace, staff and students to her for her new role which I and were shortlisted in the were given the task of coming up role which dates back to the am certain she will enjoy just as Outstanding Library Team with a name more resonant with merging in 1860 of King’s and much as I did.” category of the Times Higher its new home. Marischal Colleges to create Education Leadership and The University also announced today’s University. Management Awards. The final choice was that Professor Iain Torrance ‘Evolutionary Loop 517’ , The Duchess – who was elected will assist Her Royal Highness explained by proposer Professor unopposed by General Council by accepting the role of Pro- Marcel Jaspars as reflecting how members – has been a frequent Chancellor. Aberdeen-born Iain students, academics and staff visitor to the University, most Torrance has a long association are constantly evolving in their recently in spring 2012 when with the University, becoming experiences and connections at she visited the School of Dean of the Faculty of Arts and the University, the organic nature Education to meet teachers and Divinity in 2001 and serving of the sculpture in symbiosis with students engaged in innovative subsequently as Moderator of the the research carried out around it, learning programmes. The General Assembly of the Church and also a reminder of the age of Duchess also met music of Scotland and President of the University today. students and lecturers, Princeton Theological Seminary.

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Gilded Beasts Tiny silk slippers uncaged tell a royal tale

The University hosted a celebration of Scottish and Gaelic culture at the in April. The half day event gave members of the public the opportunity to learn more about the Gaelic language Team AU triumph and culture with exhibitions in Granite City and information stands from Challenge organisations like Scottish Culture & Traditions, Clì, Learngaelic.net, The Gaelic Books Council, and more. There were also a number of fun workshops and a free Gaelic language taster session. A pair of tiny silk and leather As part of the celebration, the slippers have been unearthed, University also launched its having lain undiscovered in Gaelic Language Plan, which the vast collections of the highlights how the University University for more than will assist the national effort to 140 years. Despite snow playing havoc with increase the use, acquisition and Thanks to the detective work the schedule – the University status of Gaelic and contribute of curator Louise Wilkie, eventually came up trumps in to the language’s development. the embroidered shoes were Britain’s biggest varsity event revealed as having belonged to which sees Aberdeen go head- Napoleon Bonaparte’s sister, to-head with local rivals Robert Princess Pauline Borghese. Gordon University (RGU) over Cabinet Secretary 30 sports. visits to announce Louise had only joined the museum team last June and Heavy snow on the original date new teacher places was working on one of her first in March resulted in all outdoor major assignments to clean events being postponed. A boost in teacher training places and sort a collection belonging The rearranged fixtures took was announced by Scotland’s to the Banff-born medical place in the middle of April with Education Secretary Michael graduate and extensive traveller Aberdeen eventually triumphing Russell on a visit to the University Robert Wilson (1787 – 1871). 19-12 overall. in February. The decorative shoes, which University of Aberdeen Sports An extra 370 places for student are equivalent to a UK President Clare McWilliams teachers will be available at children’s size two and measure said: “The snow caused the Scottish universities for 2013/14, just 40mm across the toes, biggest disruption to the event and the University of Aberdeen were concealed in a chest in 16 years but our teams kept is one of eight training providers of clothes and were simply their composure in both parts in Scotland that will benefit from marked on the sole ‘Pauline of the competition and ran out the additional places. Rome’. convincing winners yet again.” Mr Russell spoke to students on the BEd (Honours) Primary To keep up-to-date with the latest Education course taking part news from campus: in creativity workshops, and Add us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ was shown work underway in AberdeenUniversityAlumni an art and design class led by or www.facebook.com/ Alan Paterson and in a drama universityofaberdeen workshop led by Jackie Stewart. Follow us on twitter: @aberdeenuni

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Ralph Allwood is a renowned conductor and champion of choral music. He left Eton College in 2011, where he had been Precentor and Director of Music for 26 years, to co-found Inner Voices, a choir for young people from ten Inner London state schools. He has made 35 live broadcasts on Radio 3 and appeared as a choral consultant and judge in BBC2’s The Choir: Sing While You Work. In 2002 he was made Honorary Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music and an MBE in the 2012 New Years Honours.

Albert Sachs, a former Judge of the Constitutional Court of South Africa, is an eminent lawyer and a courageous human rights A MUTUAL activist. As a young advocate at the Cape Bar, the bulk of his work involved defending people charged under racist statutes and repressive security laws. He HONOUR himself was subjected to banning orders restricting his movement and eventually placed in solitary The achievements of Professor Emmanuel Adow University of Notre Dame in confinement without trial for two nine individuals will be Obeng is a prominent African Indiana, and as a Visiting Noted prolonged spells of detention and, recognised with the award scholar and university leader. Scholar at the University of in 1966, went into exile. In 1988 he of honorary doctorates in A graduate of the University British Columbia. A Fellow of the was blown up by a bomb placed in July 2013. of Aberdeen, Professor Obeng British Academy, he has received his car in Maputo by South African was Vice-Chancellor of the the Admiral Back Award of the security agents. Returning home in Professor Dominic Houlihan University of Cape Coast, Ghana, Royal Geographical Society, the 1990, he took an active part in the retired in September 2012 following from 2001 to 2008. A Professor Centenary Medal of the Royal negotiations which led to South a distinguished career spanning some in New Testament Studies at Scottish Geographical Society, the Africa becoming a constitutional forty years with the University of Cape Coast since 1997, Professor Templeton Foundation Lecture democracy. In 1994 he was Aberdeen. An eminent fish biologist, Obeng was awarded Order of the Award, the Gold Medal of the appointed by President Nelson he was also one of the longest Volta of the Republic of Ghana Royal Irish Academy, and the Mandela to serve on the newly serving Vice Principals in recent for his contribution to higher Founder’s Medal of the Royal established Constitutional Court. times. An enthusiastic champion education in 2007. Geographical Society. He was Karen Darke, an Aberdeen of entrepreneurial activity, he also awarded an OBE in 2002. graduate, has led an extraordinary forged international links with Professor Terence Daintith, a distinguished academic life and been an inspiration to China, Hong Kong and the Middle James O’Donnell is Organist lawyer, specialises in public many. Paralysed in a traumatic East. His long-standing advocacy of and Master of the Choristers law – maintaining a career-long rock-climbing at the age of public engagement in science was of Westminster Abbey. He twenty one, she has overcome interest in economic regulation, has developed an international recognised with an OBE in 2010. many physical and mental and pioneering the study of reputation as an organist, giving oil and gas law in the United barriers – completing many trips Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell recitals in Britain, Europe, the Kingdom. He has held posts at others believed impossible; from Burnell is a renowned British United States and Australasia, leading universities in the UK, marathons and triathlons, to astrophysicist. Dame Jocelyn made as well as having made solo Europe and the United States kayaking, sit-skiing and hand- one of the greatest astronomical appearances at the Proms and currently holds visiting cycling in some of the most discoveries of the twentieth century. and broadcast many times on professorial appointments inhospitable places on the planet. As a postgraduate student, she BBC Radio 3. Between 1997 at the University of Western As a competing hand cyclist, discovered the first radio pulsars – the and 2004 he was Professor of Australia and the Universities of her sporting achievements to by-products of supernova explosions Melbourne and Sydney. Organ at the Royal Academy of date include winning two Silver which make all life in the universe Music, where he is now Visiting Medals at the 2011 Para-Cycling possible – with her thesis supervisor David N Livingstone is Professor of both Organ and World Cup in Sydney, Australia, Antony Hewish. Dame Jocelyn is a Professor of Geography and Choral Conducting. A long-term in both the women’s H2 Road champion of women in science and Intellectual History at Queen’s member of the Council of the Race and Time Trial events and a has campaigned to improve the status University, Belfast. He has served Royal College of Organists, he Silver Medal at the London 2012 and number of women in the fields as a Visiting Professor at Calvin has just completed a two-year Paralympic Games in the women’s of physics and astronomy. College in Michigan and the term as its President. H1-2 time trial. 

16 ALUMNIFEATURES NEWS VOICE EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS

The University website is always the most up-to-date source of information about events taking place at the University. Visit www.abdn.ac.uk/events for further details or call +44 (0) 1224 273233. We also promote events on our twitter account @aberdeenuni. The events detailed below are correct as of June 2013.

Community Café Discussion Series Throughout the year www.engagingaberdeen.co.uk King’s Museum Evening Lectures Throughout the year www.abdn.ac.uk/library/news-events/events Second Sight & Prophecy Conference 14 - 16 June www.abdn.ac.uk/elphinstone Peterhead Boaties Project 5 July – 15 August www.abdn.ac.uk/elphinstone Sea, Sangs and Saatie Tales, Peterhead 24 July www.abdn.ac.uk/elphinstone Traditional Singing Weekend at Cullerlie 26 – 28 July www.abdn.ac.uk/elphinstone TechFest 13 September – 2 October www.techfestsetpoint.org.uk The Elphinstone Institute Fiddle Bus 21 September www.abdn.ac.uk/elphinstone Sound Festival 23 October – 18 November www.sound-scotland.co.uk University of Aberdeen Autumn/ Winter Concert Series October – December www.abdn.ac.uk/music/events

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS FOR ALUMNI For further details visit www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni or call +44 (0)1224 273234

Cromarty Dolphin Watching 5 September 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Informal Alumni Gathering in London September 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Informal Alumni Gathering in Edinburgh September 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Informal Alumni Gathering in New York Autumn 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Informal Alumni Gathering in Hong Kong October 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Bonfire Night in Aberdeen 5 November 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Statutory Meeting of the General Council 7 December 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events Graduate Winter Lunch in Aberdeen 7 December 2013 www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/events

EXHIBITIONS For further information on exhibitions, please visit, www.abdn.ac.uk/library/news-events/events or call +44(0)1224 274330

The Sir Duncan Rice Library King’s Museum James Mackay Hall

27 April – 7 September 11 March – 7 September 24 April - 31 July Wanderlust: Nunalleq: ‘Utiseta’ by Nicola Moss Travel Journals and Explorers’ Notes The Yupiit and the Arctic World ‘Útiseta’, meaning sitting out for wisdom, is Wanderlust describes a yearning for distant An exhibition of recent archaeological associated with an ancient Nordic practice of places: an irrepressible compulsion to discover discoveries from western Alaska, excavated divining knowledge. Moss’s works are inspired the unknown. The exhibition features vivid by a team from the University of Aberdeen in from sitting out in the Scottish landscape to writing contained in some of the travel partnership with the Yup’ik Eskimo village of see numinous images in her mind’s eye. journals and explorers’ notebooks held with Quinhagak. the University’s Special Collections.

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TOASTING CONTINUED SUCCESS STUDENT Profile: BLAIR BOWMAN

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“Last year I was writing up A slick and regularly updated website offers news from my CV in preparation for job the whisky world as well as hunting and this year people promotional deals. Visitors are even invited to purchase official have been sending me their CVs World Whisky Day merchandise. wanting to come and work for “Last year the website couldn’t me and World Whisky Day!” cope with the traffic it received on the day but this year cloud computing firm iomart got in touch to offer a dedicated server so the site didn’t go down. “I’ve been overwhelmed by Whisky has had “We also had great link ups with support and interest from University of Aberdeen student Brewdog and the Scotch Malt the business world and from Blair Bowman in something of a Whisky Society in Edinburgh politicians who think it’s a great daze over the last year – but not and London, who opened up idea. Most pleasing though is in a negative sense. their members-only clubs to the how passionate people have been public for the day.” Since the 23-year-old came to get involved and to celebrate up with the idea of creating a Like all good businessmen Scotland’s national drink – designated day of celebration last though, Blair is already planning whether or not they have any year to toast Scotland’s national his next move. connection to the country at all. drink, the event has proven so It’s just about getting together “Ahead of World Whisky Day popular it now dominates the and enjoying a dram with friends I commented in the media that majority of his time. – that’s all I ever wanted it to be Antarctica was the only continent about and the fact it’s become “Last year I might have been that wouldn’t be hosting an that and so much more is a dismissed by some in the whisky event, and since then I’ve been bonus. business as just some young inundated with tweets from guy with no clue but now people saying they know people at “I think distilleries are seeing it distributors and distilleries are some of the scientific base camps as a good opportunity to come seeing the potential that the there and they’re going to do together under an independent event has and they’re keen to be something next year – so we will umbrella group which can be involved,” he said. literally be worldwide in 2014. mutually beneficial for everybody. And as they get join up, they’ll be “I’ve had guys from Hong able to influence and decide the “I think distilleries Kong and Australia getting in direction of how the event should are seeing it as a good touch asking if there are job evolve.” opportunities. It’s just been mad.” opportunity to come together under an With his studies completed Blair The second annual World independent umbrella is looking to celebrate World Whisky Day was held on May group which can be Whisky Day 2014 in style. 18 (it will be held on every third mutually beneficial for “We’re now officially part of Saturday in May from now on) everybody.” and, as promised by its founder, Homecoming 2014 and we’re was even bigger and better than looking to commemorate that the inaugural event. with some exciting events ‒ “After I finish my studies World maybe a series of gatherings “This year there were official Whisky Day is going to be my across the country. I haven’t World Whisky Day events in full-time job. I really believe it nailed down the details yet, but around 40 countries and the has such massive potential that it it’s going to be big!”  website was visited by people will be a viable business and I’m from over 100 countries all so excited about it. over the world so it’s definitely The Hispanic Studies student growing in stature. has had to balance his brainchild “Arran distillery had with the demands of finishing representatives in every hotel his degree but his is no amateur in the island offering free ‘mini operation. Whilst he may have taster’ sessions to celebrate the been begging and borrowing To keep up-to-date with the latest day and their visitor centre to get the event off the ground news about World Whisky Day visit: www.worldwhiskyday.com manager was on the ferry all day last year, this time around wearing a World Whisky Day established firms came to him to Follow World Whisky Day on twitter:@WorldWhiskyDay t-shirt and telling everyone about offer support and discuss joint it, which was just fantastic. promotional opportunities.

19 VOICE  A SOCIABLE SUCCESS STORY

Despite having table discussions about “The big challenge for our unconditional offers establishing an over- food producers is going from Edinburgh and St arching body, supported by to be how to produce Andrews, James’ visit to the Scottish Government, more, with less inputs. Aberdeen on a glorious that would take the Scotland is never going sunny day, when Kings lead on the economic to be a low cost producer. College looked so inviting, development of the food For the home market we and the students were and drink industry. This need to change the view all enjoying themselves body, subsequently known of some people that ‘best lounging on the grass, as Scotland Food and value’ equals ‘cheapest’ sealed his choice of Drink, was born in 2007. and help them to think Aberdeen as the University When the post of Chief that ‘best value’ can also for him. Executive became vacant mean ‘produced to highest standards of welfare and James has definitely been in 2011, James was again lowest environmental the right person in the right in the ideal place to take footprint.” place at the right time as far it on. “I was ready for a as his career is concerned. change, having been at When Scotland Food and ALUMNI Profile: He graduated in 1999, NFUS for 11 years, and Drink was established it (MA Politics), just as the I wanted to get beyond was clear that there just JAMES WITHERS Scottish Parliament was the farm gate. I also knew wasn’t enough research and established, and joined the all the key players in the development taking place National Farmers’ Union development of Scotland to support the innovation Food and drink and for Scotland (NFUS) Food and Drink.” that would drive the conviviality are natural graduate trainee scheme as “The most amazing thing economic development of their Parliamentary Adviser. the sector. “Among the big partners, and they have about Scotland Food and “It didn’t matter to NFUS Drink is that it exists at trends in the industry are come together to great that up until that point I’d all! To get such a range sustainability, innovation in never been on a farm, as healthier foods, and good effect in the career of organisations round they of course have a large the table and working quality convenient food. of James Withers, Chief number of farmers to talk in partnership with The University’s Rowett to. What they didn’t have Government to grow the Institute of Nutrition and Executive of Scotland was any idea how to engage sector had never been Research, which has a Food and Drink. with the new Parliament, achieved before. Now, with 100 year track record in and of course, neither did a small backroom staff of nutrition research, is doing anyone else! I was able to 20, we have 330 member a great job in contributing bring a very fresh (aged companies, partnerships to these areas and it is clear 22) pair of eyes to the way with all the right to me that the need for the NFUS engaged with a organisations, and are well type of research carried out James Withers says range of audiences and on our way to achieving by the Rowett is probably his time at the University will always be grateful for that ambitious target of greater now than at any was phenomenal and four the fantastic opportunity growing the industry to a other time.” and support they gave me.” of the best years of his life. value of £12.5 billion by If you want to find out Undertaking a number “The one word that sums 2017. The opportunities more about the food and of roles for the NFUS, up my time at Aberdeen for Scottish food and drink drink industry in Scotland, James was appointed is social. I played rugby in markets such as India, and about James in Deputy Chief Executive in for the University and for China and the Far East particular, then follow him November 2005 and Chief Aberdeenshire and I was is enormous. We want to on Twitter. An enthusiastic Executive in 2008. very aware that my course follow the whisky industry and entertaining tweeter, allowed me to enjoy all During his time at NFUS, model – we are offering James manages to blend aspects of University life to James represented the a high quality product, some more personal tweets the full.” organisation at round sustainably produced. with his role at SFD, in

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“I find that Twitter is simply the most time efficient social media platform.”

a way that perhaps few without his background and experience would be able to do. “I find that Twitter is simply the most time efficient social media platform. I was originally really sceptical of it, but now I can’t remember the last time I picked-up on a major news story anywhere other than on Twitter. Of course, it can attract the loony fringe, and I know that there are some topics which if I tweet about will immediately produce a spat of replies, but by and large Twitter excels at the getting, and communicating of news.” Finally, James has a message for academics wanting to engage with the policy and political audiences: “You really need to think about the clarity of your message – keep it short and sharp. Politicians everywhere are simply drowning in information. Academics are very good at churning out loads of information such that their message gets lost, and they aren’t always clear what they want from their MSP either.” 

Follow James on twitter: @scotfoodjames

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From Student TO mentor ALUMNI Profile: Julia harvie-liddel

When Julia Harvie-Liddel graduated from the University of Aberdeen in 1991, she didn’t imagine that she would one day return as a mentor to up and coming talent.

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With an MA in Julia continued: “Today’s job can be imbedded in everything Social Sciences, majoring in market is tough there is no we do globally, and this is what I Accountancy and Economics, doubt about that – we recruit strive for.” Julia left Aberdeen and completed 8000 personnel a year globally When working with her two further degrees – a MSc in at all levels in the business – mentees, Julia has discovered Marketing and a MSc in HR – to 1000 at the graduate entry level. that although each individual has enhance her CV further. In the Graduating into a job market been extremely different, they all years since, the Brighton-based where competition for positions is have vast amounts of ambition business woman has carved out an so fierce is a massive pressure and and determination. extremely successful career. While applicants have to really stand out on her journey up the career to potential employers. “I have been so impressed by ladder, Julia has also become the students I worked with, who “Having spent my career in HR FCIPD qualified, which means have all been so determined and resourcing, I feel excellently she is a Fellow of the Chartered and clear about what they hope placed to help students with a Institute of Personnel and to achieve. I don’t think when range of processes, such as filling Development. I was in their position I was as out applications forms, preparing clued up about industry and as As Global HRVP for Upstream their CVs and prepping for focussed on my goals! Resourcing at BP, Julia has a interviews. wealth of experience, which she “I think even working with a “I have now worked with three has chosen to share with current mentor shows that they are keen students and I have been so Aberdeen students by joining the to do whatever they can to take impressed with each of them – University’s Career Mentoring that important first step on their they have been fantastic to work Programme. career ladder and I admire each with. I’ve found each has different of them for that. Julia is responsible for all of needs and therefore I tailor BP’s Upstream recruitment, and our programme to suit each of “I absolutely loved my time at manages a team of 150 globally. them and I think this has really the University of Aberdeen, Having spent a large amount of benefitted us all. it gave me my first taste of her career involved in graduate independence and you never recruiting, mentoring seemed like “I have gained so much forget that. a natural fit. from it and it is just “If I can help, in even a small way, Julia explained: “I had such a wonderful when you hear to help ensure others enjoy their wonderful time as a student about what your mentees experiences at Aberdeen then that at Aberdeen and have always have gone on to achieve is great. In the 18 months that I reflected fondly on the time I after your time with them have been part of the mentoring spent at the University. When has come to an end.” programme, I have enjoyed the I heard about the mentoring programme immensely and am programme, I didn’t need to be delighted to continue in the role. asked twice to take part. “From my mentoring work, I really I’ve been telling people who I feel I am giving something back – graduated alongside in 1991 how “The thought that I may be able much I would recommend it and I to help students to map out their which for me is hugely important. If someone who is just starting really believe any alumni that feel career paths, and advise or guide they can offer something should out in their professional life can them along the way was extremely look into the programme. appealing. Being able to put my glean something from my skills and years of experience into context experience, then that is brilliant, “I have gained so much from it is hugely rewarding, but in my and extremely satisfying.” and it is just wonderful when you experience it definitely isn’t only hear about what your mentees Julia is quick to admit that she the students who gain a lot from have gone on to achieve after would never have expected to find the programme.” your time with them has come to herself working in the oil and gas an end.”  The Career Mentoring industry when she left Aberdeen Programme was established by back in 1991, however she now the University’s Alumni Relations can’t imagine herself anywhere but Office and the Careers Service. If you are interested in finding out BP for the foreseeable future. more about the University Career The programme aims to match Mentoring Programme, or how students with Alumni who are “There is still a lot for me to to get involved, go to page 24 or willing to share their professional achieve at BP, and I love working contact Julie Bakewell: [email protected] experience and expertise for the company. I am passionate www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni and support their mentee in about my role and indeed the developing their own career ideas. business. Continuous improvement

23 VOICE  ALUMNI NEWS

Time to Give Back?

With a presence that extends Career Mentoring across the globe, you, as our alumni Programme community, remain an important part of the Aberdeen family, For alumni who can commit offering a wealth of knowledge, to 1-2 hours a month over a experience and expertise. 6-month period, the Career Mentoring Programme gives you The Aberdeen Alumni the opportunity, as a working Engagement Programme offers professional, to offer support to a you a range of ways to contribute current student in developing their to the support of current and future career ideas. As a mentor you will members of the Aberdeen family. be able to offer the student the Ambassadors benefit of your own experience in a particular profession or We want to maintain close employment area, giving them an relationships with those of you insight into the knowledge and Keep in touch with living and working both within skills they will need to succeed in your Classmates the UK and overseas. Our alumni their chosen career. ambassadors are at the core of ‘Back on Campus’ Are you approaching 10, 20, 30 or even 40 years this work. They plan and host since you graduated? Are you currently planning or events for fellow alumni, support We are developing a range of considering planning a class reunion? If so we would our recruitment activities in their events across campus that will love to hear from you. region/country, serve as contact allow current students to gain points for students in their area first-hand access to Aberdeen Reunions are a great way of meeting up with interested in Aberdeen and assist alumni. These events will offer old friends to reminisce about your days at the faculty and students travelling or you the opportunity to share your University of Aberdeen. These can be based on studying abroad. experiences face-to-face. Current class anniversaries, club and society memberships, students will gain invaluable time geographically, or with a specially selected group Alumni Profiles with alumni who are established of friends. in their careers and this will help What role has Aberdeen played We know that organising such an event can take a them develop and improve their in your life, either directly - in lot of time and effort so we have put together a useful Aberdeen Graduate Attributes, terms of skills and knowledge - or guide to make things a little easier. a wide-ranging set of qualities indirectly, via friends, experiences or which they develop during their Visit www.abdn.ac.uk/reunions to download a copy chance encounters? By providing a time at Aberdeen. of the guide or to view a list of forthcoming reunions. profile you can share your personal Alternatively please contact us on +44(0)1224 272281 story with current students For more information, visit our or email [email protected]. The Alumni Relations and help raise awareness of the website at www.abdn.ac.uk/ team will be happy to provide you with any additional possibilities beyond university. In alumni or contact Julie Bakewell: information or advice. doing so you can inspire the next [email protected] generation of Aberdeen graduates.

In 2014 Scotland invites the world To join in the celebrations Homecoming to celebrate the exciting Year of the Alumni Relations team Homecoming. In addition to the are planning a programme and beyond Commonwealth Games and Ryder of activities and events across the world exclusively Cup, there will be a year-long 2014 programme of events and activities for alumni. Highlights will to showcase all that is great about include an alumni sports day, opportunities to trace your Scotland. For more information about routes, historical tours and what is happening please visit Burns suppers. www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni

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Alumni Event Round-up

ABERDEEN PRINCETON LONDON

Channel 4’s Simon Watt at the Alumni meeting Principal Sir Alumni enjoying the recent Alumni exclusive event as part of Ian Diamond and Professor Paul Communicating with Professor Michael the General Council Statutory Mealor at an informal reception Confidence presentation Charles Meston MA meeting. prior to the American premiere of hosted by Aberdeen Asset LLB (Aberd) JD (Chic) his choral masterwork Crucifixus. Management. (1932-2013)

Emeritus Professor Michael C Meston who died in Aberdeen on 8 February 2013, aged 80, had a long and strong relationship with the University. A 1950s graduate in History and Law, he worked at Chicago and Glasgow universities, before returning to Aberdeen in 1965 as senior lecturer in comparative law. In 1968 he EDINBURGH AFRICA NIGERIA became Professor of Jurisprudence and in 1971 Professor of Scots Lady Dorrian hosted a reception and Informal Alumni gatherings Alumni attending a recent Law, a post which he held until an insightful tour of the Supreme were held in Lagos and Abuja. networking event in Nigeria. he retired in 1994. Mike was Courts for Aberdeen Alumni. truly proud to occupy the original Aberdeen law chair and work in his area of primary interest – the private law of Scotland. Working in the initial era of a full-time university law degree, Mike The University’s Affinity Credit played a major part in the Credit Where Card is available to any UK development of legal education as resident over the age of 18. a significant part of the Scottish Since it became available to university scene. it’s Due. alumni and friends many years ago it has helped to generate Mike Meston’s contribution was much more than a purely legal – tens of thousands of pounds let alone, academic legal – one. He in commission in support of undertook an extensive range of University projects. We wish university and public service work. to thank everyone who has As Vice-Principal to Sir Fraser supported the University in this Noble in the late 1970s and early way. The credit card is issued by 1980s Mike played a pivotal MBNA Europe Bank Limited and role in a demanding period for offers all the features you would the University. expect from a premium service University colleagues and alumni credit card. will universally agree that, as a teacher, colleague and friend, To apply for this card, please call: Mike will be remembered as part 0800 028 2440 and quote of University history. 31CVQKJY.

25 VOICE  ALUMNI NEWS

LIVE AND ONLINE! You can also check out the great alumni benefits and services available to you by registering your details with us on the website. By doing this you will also be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a brand new Kindle Fire (see competition details on the opposite page). Through the new website you can also access your alumni networks on Facebook and LinkedIn. LinkedIn now has regional and industry specific subgroups to help you find fellow alumni in your area or line of work. If you have a large Alumni community where you We are delighted to announce are based and we do not yet have a subgroup for you, please feel free to let us know. the launch of the new Alumni website. Easy to navigate, Subgroups include: the website is packed with • UK • Malaysia information about alumni • USA • UAE news, events and reunions, • Canada • Oil & Energy what’s happening in your area, • Singapore • Legal Profession volunteering opportunities and • Hong Kong • Gaelic speakers much, much more. You will find • China lots of useful information, from guides on how to organise a We hope you will find the new website (www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni) informative and reunion, to how to become a engaging, and would gladly welcome any feedback volunteer and support the to [email protected] current student community.

ALUMNI BENEFITS LIKE US? KEEP IN Get connected! TOUCH WIN A ‘Like’ us on Facebook, for regular updates and Update your details with us to win a brand new pictures from around campus, or find and keep in Kindle Fire. KINDLE touch with old classmates and friends. Benefit card To make sure that you continue to receive the Voice magazine and to help us Facebook.com/AberdeenUniversityAlumni keep you updated with all of the news, events and services available to you, The Alumni Privilege Card entitles you to a please provide us with your up-to-date contact details (postal and email). wide variety of benefits on and off campus, FIRE ‘Connect’ with us on LinkedIn to access a variety of from discounted venue hire and hotel rates Competition time! alumni networking groups, including our new region to accessing JSTOR online journals and and industry specific subgroups. much, much more. To find out more about By registering or updating your Alternatively please contact the uk.linkedin.com/in/universityofaberdeenalumni the benefits and services available please visit details before the end of September Alumni Relations Of ce by post www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni to register and to 2013, you will automatically be or email: [email protected] request your very own card. entered into our prize draw to win a Alumni Relations brand new Kindle Fire! University of Aberdeen The easiest way to do this is by Alumni Relations, 26 registering or updating your details FREEPOST AB600 online at: www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni Aberdeen, AB24 3ZQ ALUMNI NEWS VOICE

Alumni Travel NORTH HARBOUR Programme 2013 – BARBARA RAE

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS AND ECUADOR. THE ZOOLOGY, ECOLOGY AND ORNITHOLOGY OF THE PACIFIC.

19 - 21 October 2013 with Professor John Parker

Price: £4,850 pp sharing, full board including flights from London but excluding airline taxes. Experience first-hand the astonishing ecology which contributed to Charles Darwin’s pivotal theory of evolution by natural selection with a visit to the unique and endlessly North Harbour is a screen print developed from a fascinating Galapagos Islands. As well as visiting Quito this series of drawings and monotypes based on the tour features a 7 night cruise aboard the exclusively chartered harbour at Aberdeen. yacht Coral 1. We are delighted to be able to offer, at a special reduced N.B. This is a joint trip with Oxford and Cambridge Universities. alumni price of £650, a limited number of these beautiful prints for sale. All proceeds from the sale will go to the University For a full brochure contact: Temple World Ltd, 13 The Avenue, Library’s Learning and Outreach Programme. If you are Richmond. Surrey. TW9 2AL. Tel: 020 8940 4114. interested in purchasing one of these prints please contact [email protected] / www.templeworld.com. ATOL 2903. us at [email protected] or +44 (0)1224 273234 for more information.

KEEP IN TOUCH WIN A Update your details with us to win a brand new Kindle Fire. KINDLE

To make sure that you continue to receive the Voice magazine and to help us keep you updated with all of the news, events and services available to you, please provide us with your up-to-date contact details (postal and email). FIRE Competition time! By registering or updating your Alternatively please contact the details before the end of September Alumni Relations Of ce by post 2013, you will automatically be or email: [email protected] entered into our prize draw to win a Alumni Relations brand new Kindle Fire! University of Aberdeen The easiest way to do this is by Alumni Relations, registering or updating your details FREEPOST AB600 online at: www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni Aberdeen, AB24 3ZQ TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN DEVELOPMENT TRUST

Students are the lifeblood of the University of Aberdeen. Through the generous contributions from our world-wide community of alumni and friends, we provide vital support to ensure that they receive not only the best education but a fuller transformational experience that will set them up for life. Please consider making a single or regular gift to ensure Last year your generosity made such a difference to so that many more students are able to fulfil their dreams. many students and we would like to thank you very much. Together we can make a real difference. This generosity has helped to fund:- • A range of undergraduate scholarships To donate online please go to and click give • Equipment for many of the student clubs and societies www.abdn.ac.uk/giving • Sports bursaries online. • Globally-important medical research Alternatively, please complete the • The preservation of our historic collections of books enclosed donation form. and manuscripts With your support we aim to continue improving the Thank You. university experience for many more current and future students. If every graduate gave £20 we would raise an The University of Aberdeen Development Trust is a charity astonishing £1.3 million. registered in Scotland no SC002938.