The 2013 GraduateThe magazine for Graduates and Friends of Queen’s University Belfast

Seamus Heaney 1939 – 2013

Welcome The to the 2013 edition of The Graduate magazine Graduate

This edition of The Graduate is dedicated to the We hope that The Graduate lives up to its usual memory of Seamus Heaney who died at the end high standards! If it does - or more importantly, if it of August. Seamus was a graduate, former staff doesn’t – please email [email protected] to tell us CONTENTS member and Honorary Graduate of this University what you think. and all of those who knew him, or who were FEATURES touched by his poetry, have lost a true friend. Thank you for taking time to read The Graduate. His support for Queen’s over nearly 50 years was 12 Profile of Festival Director, Richard Wakely immeasurable and his loss is profound. 14 Going Beyond – Queen’s £140m fundraising campaign In this issue you can also read about some of 18 Research Showcase – the best young talent at Queen’s the exciting postgraduate research currently being undertaken at Queen’s which will impact Ian Moore 21 Niall McShane – Student President on all our lives. We also highlight the latest news Head of Alumni Relations from around campus including progress on the Queen’s University Belfast 23 Get involved, be a mentor University’s £140 million fundraising campaign. 26 Giving time and talent – how to volunteer at your alma mater And for those considering setting up a business, P.S. If you are reading this magazine for the Ramona Nicholas, Queen’s Graduate of the Year, first time, I would like to welcome you to our 30 The truth behind Hillsborough – Professor Phil Scraton shares her thoughts and experiences of doing just worldwide family of over 140,000 alumni. The that. Development and Alumni Relations Office is your 32 The Secret of My Success – Graduate of the Year, lifelong link to Queen’s and we want to ensure that Ramona Nicholas As well as the regular features including Class this connection is beneficial to you. Notes, Obituaries, My time at Queen’s and your 44 Legacies - A Gift for Life Book Review page, we have profiles of both the Through this magazine, e-newsletters, our 2013/14 Student President and the new Festival website (www.qub.ac.uk/alumni) and our social 51 Alumni benefits – yours for the taking Director, and focus on the work done by Professor media presence we will keep you connected with Phil Scraton for the Hillsborough Independent Queen’s. I hope that you share our pride in this Events Panel. exceptional University and that you will help us to enhance its great reputation. 29 Convocation Invitation 48 Coming back, catching up! - Events and Reunions Special Features This magazine is available online for those who prefer a larger font size. 8 Seamus Heaney – a life remembered Go to:www.daro.qub.ac.uk/TheGraduate 43 Eulogy for Seamus Heaney

Editor: Contributors: Regular content Gerry Power Heather Anderson, Ciaran Carson, Eimear Development and Alumni Relations Office Gallagher, Meaghan Lyons, Ian Moore, Paul 4 Latest news Queen’s University Belfast Muldoon, Ramona Nicholas, Karl Oakes, Prof Belfast, BT7 1NN Phil Scraton, Adele Ward, Susan Wilson 34 My time at Queen’s Design: www.darraghneely.com Cert o.n XXX-XXX-XXXX Northern Ireland Tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 3100 Print Services: Corporate Document Services 36 Class Notes Email: [email protected] 40 Books The Graduate is an informal magazine published annually by the Development and Alumni Relations Office, for alumni and friends of Queen’s University Belfast. Extracts from the magazine should not be published without the approval 41 Obituaries of the Editor. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of printed information at time of going to press, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions. Advertisements are carefully vetted, but the University can take 46 Sport – all the latest on and off the field no responsibility for their content. Any views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the University or the editorial team. Letters, photos and news for inclusion are welcomed by the Editor but we reserve the right to edit any contributions. © Development and Alumni Relations Office 2013 4 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 5

Further stories can be found online daro.qub.ac.uk/news and www.qub.ac.uk/qtv NEWS Queen’s academic becomes Belfast Queen’s new President Poet Laureate and Vice-Chancellor

Professor Patrick Johnston will become Queen’s new President and Vice-Chancellor on 1 March 2014.

Professor Johnston, a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, is an outstanding academic with a distinguished record of achievement. Having earned a distinction in medicine from University College Dublin in 1982, his further medical training at the Mater and St James’s University Teaching Award-winning poet, Sinéad Morrissey, has been language organisations and minority groups. She Hospitals in Dublin was followed by a Fellowship at named as the first ever Belfast Poet Laureate. has also been commissioned to produce a series of the National Cancer Institute, USA, in 1987. poems about Belfast and the year as the city’s Poet Dr Morrissey, Reader in Creative Writing at the that explores the theme ‘My City’. He combines vision with a passionate Seamus Heaney Centre, School of English, was then created the Centre for Cancer Research and determination to deliver changes that will benefit appointed Belfast Poet Laureate by the Lord Speaking about her appointment, Dr Morrissey Cell Biology. This culminated in the University society as a whole and throughout his illustrious Mayor of Belfast as part of his ‘Vision for Belfast’ said: “Belfast is a city with an extraordinary being awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee career he has led transformational projects. In released in July. literary tradition, especially in relation to poetry. Anniversary Prize in 2012 for its leadership of the September 2007, Professor Johnston was I am therefore hugely honoured to be appointed Northern Ireland Comprehensive Cancer Services appointed as Dean of the School of Medicine, As Poet Laureate, Dr Morrissey will engage the Belfast’s first Poet Laureate, and am excited to programme. Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, which has over people of Belfast in poetry through a series celebrate and explore further both the city and 500 faculty, some 2,000 undergraduate students, of events, community outreach to art groups, poetry in the year ahead.” Speaking about his appointment, Professor 460 postgraduate students and an annual turnover Johnston commented: “This is a proud day of £60m. He is active on many national and for both me and my family. I very much look international boards and is renowned for his work forward to leading this distinguished institution understanding and treating cancer. Clinical research centre opens and working alongside its exceptional staff and students. It is an honour and privilege to be given Appointed as Professor and Head of the this opportunity to further develop and enhance A new £4m state-of-the-art medical research centre The NICRF is a joint venture between Queen’s, the Department of Oncology at Queen’s and Belfast the reputation and standing of Queen’s.” will allow more people than ever to take part in Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, the University City Hospital in 1996, he led the modernisation of clinical trials in Northern Ireland. It will also benefit of Ulster, and the Health and Social Care Research cancer services in Northern Ireland. He developed Professor Johnston will be the University’s 12th patients with rare conditions who previously had to and Development Division of the Public Health the new Northern Ireland Clinical Cancer Centre President and Vice-Chancellor. travel to England to participate in trials. Agency.

The Wellcome Trust-Wolfson Foundation Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility (NICRF), based University gets extra STEM funding at Belfast City Hospital, will concentrate on four main research themes - cancer, nutrition and metabolism, vision science, and respiratory Queen’s is to increase recruitment by some Welcoming the additional funding, Professor research. 30 students on economically relevant MSc Tony Gallagher, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Academic courses, including Biological Sciences, Planning, Staffing and External Relations, said: Professor Danny McAuley from Queen’s Centre Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. “The additional places will enable the University for Infection and Immunity, and acting director of The announcement was made in August by to continue to strengthen local industry through NICRF, said: “Researchers throughout Northern Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen the provision of an increased pool of highly skilled Ireland are making some of the most important Farry, who said: “This investment in economically graduates in STEM-related sectors. scientific discoveries in the world today. Until the relevant Science, Technology, Engineering and NICRF there was no dedicated area with such an Maths (STEM) postgraduate courses will help “Higher Education plays a vital role in array of specialist equipment to support clinical improve the skills of our graduates to meet the underpinning the economy in Northern Ireland research here. Now, we will be able to translate needs of local employers and support economic and therefore the decision by the Minister is most laboratory discoveries into advances in patient growth.” welcome.” care.” 6 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 7

27 OCT SWITZERLAND

. 2013 PASSPORT Convocation scholarship . 2013 . TS TO THE AR

Festival hits the OCT 17 FILM on a project entitled: ‘Development of bridge right notes weigh in motion systems using advanced structural health monitoring sensor technology to extend bridge life and future sustainable infrastructure’. The 2013 Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s is The award allowed Myra the opportunity to visit promising an international mix of tenors, tension and the University of San Diego in California where transformation. Opening this year’s event, which runs she used specialised equipment which has made a from 17-27 October, is an unveiling of Ireland’s largest valuable contribution to her research. land-art portrait created by Cuban-American artist Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada. This is followed in the evening by a The Convocation Studentship, open to full-time performance by world renowned tenor José Carrerras at postgraduate students, was awarded for the first the Waterfront Hall. time in 2011 and aims to promote and strengthen ties between Convocation (the formal body of Among other highlights is Roger Bernat’s theatrical graduates) and the University. experiment in political engagement, Pending Vote, and Rob Drummond’s ‘edge of your seat’ performance of the The inaugural Studentship recipient was Drew infamous magic trick, Bullet Catch. Add to the mix a major new production of Beckett’s Waiting Mikhael, a postgraduate research student studying for Godot and an epic Richard Strauss closing concert from the Ulster Orchestra, and the stage is for a PhD in the School of Politics, International well and truly set for Festival 2013. Studies and Philosophy. Drew recently submitted his thesis entitled ‘Consociation in Lebanon’ and Sir James Galway joins the Ulster Orchestra with A Musical Journey from Rodrigo to Tchaikovsky, hopes to graduate in December 2013. He told and the UK’s leading historical performance ensemble, La Serenissima, will perform Vivaldi’s The Graduate that he did not think he would Four Seasons at Clonard Monastery. Festival will close at the Ulster Hall with a performance by The 2012 Convocation Studentship was awarded have been able to complete his thesis without the the Ulster Orchestra entitled The Swan Songs of Strauss – featuring the final completed works of to Myra Lydon, a first year PhD student in support he received from Convocation. Richard Strauss, composed in 1948 when he was 84. Structural Engineering. Myra is currently working To find out more and book tickets visit www.belfastfestival.com or call the box office on +44 (0) 28 9097 1197. Top ranking for Queen’s

Ten of the Best! Queen’s has been rated as one of the top 15 emphasis on ensuring that students at Queen’s universities in the UK according to the National are given every opportunity to make the most of Ten of Northern Ireland’s best and brightest young competencies by a number of business leaders, Student Survey (NSS) results published over the their time here and that they are equipped with people have won a free education at Queen’s, including Queen’s Graduate of the Year and RTÉ summer. the relevant skills to give them a head start in after being named the inaugural Queen’s Scholars. Dragons’ Den star, Ramona Nicholas. the graduate employment market. These latest The University achieved an overall score of 90 results from NSS verify that in coming to Queen’s, Awards worth a total of almost £150k have been The Queen’s Scholars, who come from across per cent, just one percentage point behind the students are making a decision that will impact made to the winners, who were selected from 138 Northern Ireland, will be studying a variety of University of Oxford and Queen’s best ever NSS positively on the rest of their lives.” students nominated by 74 schools and colleges courses, including Engineering, Business, Law, satisfaction outcome. across Northern Ireland. Each of the students, Pharmacy and Medicine. Speaking about the results, Professor Ellen who began their studies at the University in early The NSS is a high-profile annual census of nearly Douglas-Cowie, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education October, will have their annual tuition fees paid for half a million students across the UK. It produces and Students, said: “Queen’s prides itself on the duration of their undergraduate degree. influential Higher Education public information, offering an exceptional giving final year students a powerful voice to help experience for our Anthony McGrath, Student Recruitment Officer at shape the future of their institution. students who are Queen’s, said: “The Queen’s Scholars awards are the lifeblood of this among the most prestigious available from any Queen’s performed well in several key areas of University. This NSS UK university. They are the latest addition to the the student experience, including teaching, where result is not only queen’s University’s undergraduate scholarship package, staff were ranked highly for their enthusiasm, their wonderful news for our which is worth £300,000 per year, benefits ability to explain things and their availability to students, but also for ranked 1st in approximately 200 students, and represents a speak to students when needed. The intellectual all our dedicated staff. russell group for personal crucial investment in Northern Ireland’s future stimulation delivered by courses and students’ It is testament to the development prosperity.” access to high-quality library and IT resources at quality of education the University also came in for praise. and opportunities on (NSS) During a special selection day a shortlist of offer at Queen’s.” over 50 students were assessed on a range of Queen’s Scholars with Anthony McGrath (right) Welcoming the news, Niall McShane, President of the Students’ Union, said: “We place great 8 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 9

I join the multitudes of people all around the world time. I confess I felt a twinge of jealousy. Later I who have been deeply affected by the death of got to know Seamus better through his wonderful Seamus Heaney – Seamus Heaney. It was a great shock; but I am tutorials, in which he always drew attention to the reminded of the many pleasurable shocks that sound and heft of the language. Somehow he got Seamus has given us throughout his career as a to hear that I was trying my hand at poetry, and writer, not least that given by his first book, Death I was invited to join the Belfast Writers’ Group, remembered of a Naturalist, published in 1966. I was 18 then, which then met in a tiny room at the back of 4 hanging around with a group of friends who had University Square. I remember vividly his reading some aspirations to writing. We had, I think, some from new work that would later be included in his vague notion that the centre of the poetry world collection Wintering Out, published in 1972. He was London; Northern Ireland was provincial, its ended with ‘Wintering’, whose last lines are ‘Under poetry world more or less moribund. Death of the moon’s stigmata/ Six thousand miles away,/ I a Naturalist changed all that. It woke us up to a imagine untroubled dust,/ A loosening gravity,/ plain, measured, deft language full of the accents Christ weighing by his hands.’ As he ended, there of home, as in the celebrated poem ‘Digging’: ‘the was that momentary silence that is the only proper curt cuts of an edge/ Through living roots awakens response to transcendence, and then applause. in my head’. I was reminded of those ‘curt cuts’ At that time everyone smoked – ‘before they put when I read Roy Foster’s moving tribute in The the cancer in cigarettes’, as Michael Longley has Guardian, which ends by his quoting this beautiful it – and when we all got up I noticed that around poem, the last sonnet in the sequence ‘Clearings’: the chair where Seamus had been sitting was an almost perfect semi-circle of ash left by the tapping of his cigarettes as he read, and I see him now seated within that magical, ghostly space. I I thought of walking round and round a space hear again the gravity of that voice. Utterly empty, utterly a source Little did I know then that I would end up as Where the decked chestnut tree had lost its Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry, place and I still don’t know quite how that came to pass. In our front hedge among the wallflowers. We never know what lies in front of us. Life and The white chips jumped and jumped and skited poetry proceeds by happenstance. As it happens, high. in 2009 I published a book of poems called On the Night Watch. I was about halfway through the I heard the hatchet’s differentiated writing when it occurred to me that the form of the Accurate cut, the crack, the sigh poems – very short, skinny lines – owed more than And collapse of what luxuriated something to the kind of poetry Seamus had been Through the shocked tips and wreckage of it writing in the 1980s, poems which he describes as ‘kinds of drills or augers for turning in and they are all. narrow and long and deep.’ I ended up dedicating Deep-planted and long gone, my coeval the book to him, and sent him the manuscript in Chestnut from a jam jar in a hole, advance of publication. As usual, he responded Its heft and hush became a bright nowhere, with immense generosity with one of his beautiful A soul ramifying and forever handwritten letters, praising the work. The book was written in the shadow of the illness of a loved Silent, beyond silence listened for. one, and some of the poems refer to my father’s death. I think the generation of poets here that Since then the poem has echoed in my head. I came after Seamus thought of him as a father of love the articulated syllabic riff of ‘the hatchet’s sorts. Here’s one of the poems from my book: differentiated/ Accurate cut’. And that decked chestnut tree now stands for Seamus himself, though not quite ‘A soul ramifying and forever/ Silent’, for Seamus’s words will echo and ramify The Day He Died following the trolley with even more resonance now that he has gone, into where as they have already for me. is certain For some he was the best known poet in the world; for others there is little doubt that I’m trying to remember when I first set eyes on in my memory he will leave Seamus Heaney was the greatest Irish poet since WB Yeats. Writing exclusively for The Seamus Heaney, and I think it must have been this life but Graduate, Professor Ciaran Carson, Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry in 1971, when he gave an introductory lecture the corridor but to the students of the final Honours year in the dimly lit at what moment at Queen’s, reflects on the life of the University’s most famous son. And together School of English. I recall the high, sculpted with extracts from poems, speeches and addresses, the University remembers its cheekbones, the hooded, mischievous eyes, the I saw his life most internationally recognised graduate, former lecturer, Honorary Graduate, Nobel rooted assurance of his stance, the beautifully as I pass through Laureate and benefactor, who died on 30 August 2013. modulated voice. Not a few girls in our year rather the swing doors leave him fancied him, including my own girlfriend of the I cannot tell 10 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 11

The last time I saw Seamus was some months ago. Honoris Causa Seamus Heaney: A life Extract from a speech by Seamus He asked me what I was up to. As it so happened, Heaney on the opening of the McClay I was in the throes of translating the work of the Seamus Heaney received the honorary degree of 1939 13 April, Seamus Justin Heaney born in French poet Jean Follain, and we spent some very Doctor of Literature from Queen’s on Wednesday, Mossbawn near Castledawson Library at Queen’s, 6 July 2010 pleasant time talking, among other things, about 7 July 1982. The following is an extract from the 1951 Seamus wins scholarship to St Columb’s the ramifications of translating. At one point I citation delivered by Professor Colin B Radford, 1953 Family moved to Bellaghy Ever since that first moment of acclamation on quoted a line from one of the poems, ‘The stairwell Dean of the Faculty of Arts. 1957 Accepted into Queen’s to study English the stage of the Whitla Hall, I have had reason is without a handrail in the alleyway’, whereupon 1961 Graduated with first class BA Arts degree to be grateful for other and ever more significant he said, ‘A lot of L’s there.’ ‘Yes,’ I said. ‘Of course The award of every honorary degree is a matter of 1965 August, Seamus married Marie Devlin honours that Queen’s has bestowed on me, so L’s have angles on them, you’d need those in your pride and congratulations, and the pleasure and 1965 Heaney’s first book, Eleven Poems, it’s a privilege this evening to return the favour somewhat, to salute and celebrate the alma mater alleyway.’ As I write, I catch again the twinkle in satisfaction must always be intensified when the published for Queen’s Festival as she adds this marvellous new McClay Library to his eye. A couple of nights before he died, I was degree of Doctor of Literature, Honoris Causa, is 1966 Faber and Faber publish his first major her premises, to her promise and to her prestige. working on this Follain poem, which I’d like to conferred by the University where the recipient was volume Death of a Naturalist quote in full, since it seems to me that Follain’s formerly an undergraduate student. Appointed lecturer at Queen’s work, with its deep and resonant simplicity, is akin The building symbolises and realises the ambition First son, Michael, was born that inspired Allen McClay’s efforts as Chairman to Seamus’s. It is now exactly 21 years since Seamus Heaney 1968 Second son, Christopher, born crossed this platform to receive the degree of of the Queen’s Foundation and the efforts of his Geoffrey Faber Memorial Prize successor Tom Lynch, the ambition to give what There was certainly no slack in Seamus’s life; and Bachelor of Arts with first class honours in English. In 1969 Door into the Dark published Shakespeare might have called ‘a local habitation never any trace of absence. He was always wholly the intervening period he has deservedly made for 1972 Left Queen’s to take up teaching post at and a name’ to their dream of a transformed there, grounded, earthed into language. He is himself, as poet and critic, throughout this country Carysfort College, Dublin campus, a campus that would be a beacon tower gone but the poems remain; they have become and abroad, a name to be linked with those of the Wintering Out published leading literary figures in the 20th century. of new possibility and ongoing confidence in the part of our lives, and he endures in them. 1973 Daughter Catherine Ann born University’s educational mission. 1975 North published Few undergraduates can hope to lecture in the EM Forster Award department in which they studied for their first Language, literature, learning, the lure and 1979 Field Work published degree; fewer still can dare to hope that their own indeed the lair of the library – in the course of 1980 Preoccupations published poetry will one day be studied by later generations my undergraduate years here, those were things Soulier renouée: Shoelace Tied 1981 of students in the very rooms where they Inaugural electee into Aosdána that changed me for life, and they remain to this themselves have learned and taught! Visiting professor at Harvard University day essential to the pursuit of a liberal education. When evening waves Joined Board of Field Day Theatre Co. However much the technology may have changed its mass of clouds Those who, for the first time today, have met his 1982 Awarded honorary doctorates by Queen’s in the meantime, the library remains at the one sees the grass fires ready smile may be surprised if I suggest that and Fordham University, New York intellectual and creative centre of any university. 1984 Station Island published raise their smoke his is not a poetry of joy, but one of the patient Many of the words associated with it have rich and satisfactions more associated with country life where His mother, Margaret, died primal associations. Just to speak of ‘holdings’ flowers grow in the sunken lanes there are daily reminders of death: after Death of 1987 The Haw Lantern published or ‘stacks’ is to be reminded how indispensable a glimpse of daylight still remains a Naturalist we find, in North, such revealing titles 1991 The Cure at Troy published a library is to the garnering and guarding what is while a boy in an iron-grey smock as ‘Funeral Rites’, ‘The Digging Skeleton’, ‘Bone 1995 Nobel Prize for Literature most treasured in the culture and most necessary bows to a rut Dreams’ and ‘Bog Queen’. And yet digging, as 1996 The Spirit Level published; wins in the pursuit of knowledge. we all know, is part of the creative process and it Whitbread Awards poetry prize to tie his shoelace is significant that in his essay on Wordsworth he Commandeur de l’Ordre des Arts et no slack in his life should talk of the poet as ploughman, and that Lettres no trace of absence. he should describe the verbal creativity of Gerard 1997 Saoi of Aosdána published Manley Hopkins as ‘a masculine forging rather than 1999 Beowulf (translation) a feminine incubation’, reminding us therefore by Whitbread Prize his criticism as well as by his poetry that in the midst 2001 Golden Wreath of Poetry of death we are in life. Electric Light published 2004 Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry opens 2005 Irish PEN Award Remembering Seamus Heaney Portrait by Tai-Shan Schierenberg Lady Heather McClay with Seamus Heaney unveiled in Great Hall, Queen’s 2006 District and Circle published ‘I have been given more by my alma mater than I ever could have imagined’ TS Eliot Prize The dim outback of shelves and catwalks was Seamus Heaney on the launch of the Campaign for Queen’s in 2002. 2007 Irish Times ‘Poetry Now’ Award for very different from the stacks I had grown up District and Circle among – haystacks and cornstacks higher than the We offer you, our alumni, the opportunity to pay tribute to Seamus and ensure that his legacy lives on 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award, Queen’s house, harvest holdings, you might say, garnerings of straw and grain. But the stacks in the library through The Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry at Queen’s. Most important to Seamus was that the 2009 David Cohen Prize still performed a similar function to those in the 2010 Human Chain published Centre should foster the advancement of young poets and writers; that it would be a place where they haggard, for just as the farmer could withdraw hay Opened The McClay Library at Queen’s could work together with and learn from established scholars and poets. The Seamus Heaney Fund will or straw by the armful and carry it off for fodder 2011 Irish Times ‘Poetry Now’ Award and support postgraduate scholarships, international fellowships, a named Seamus Heaney Studentship, a or bedding, so the student could emerge with ‘first book’ prize: all of which will continue the creative and academic tradition encouraged by Heaney. Griffin Poetry Prize for Human Chain his or her armful of books, fill up the slips at the Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award desk and keep them for a fortnight to extract 2012 The Griffin Trust for Excellence in Poetry whatever nurture that was stored in them for mind Visit www.daro.qub.ac.uk/seamus to donate online. For more information, or to make cheque or credit Lifetime Recognition Award card payments, please email [email protected] or tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 3928. or imagination. 12 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 13

to bring across a professional gay theatre “We have lots of free performances planned for production (Gay Sweatshop), something Richard 2013 and will charge very competitive prices, with A candle in recognises was an important cultural action at the for example, our international theatre programme time. Festival also taught him how to look after at no more than £16 a ticket. There are also artists - how to treat them respectfully – and how, plans to take Festival around the city and out to in those difficult times, these artists became the audiences, rather than expecting them always to dark nights best ambassadors for Belfast. come to us. I am pleased to say that Ars Nova of Copenhagen – the critically acclaimed Danish After graduating in 1982, Richard worked vocal ensemble – will be staged at St Gerard’s on professionally in the arts in Northern Ireland before the Antrim Road, so by utilising different venues recognising that he needed to gain experience we are inviting patrons to rediscover their own further afield, to investigate arts and culture from city,” said Richard. other perspectives. “My mission is to “One of the most profound and formative With over 50 years of history behind it, the theatrical moments of my life was getting the last continue to bring Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s has lured ticket for the final night of Observe the Sons of the renowned arts programmer and producer Ulster Marching towards the Somme in Hampstead the world’s best Richard Wakely back to his alma mater as Theatre. Poignantly written by Frank McGuinness, Festival Director. As the editor of The Graduate, Richard Wakely, it was a brilliant production and has had a performers...to the Gerry Power, found out when he caught up with Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s Director lifelong effect on me. Most surreally, however, him over the summer, Richard’s main challenge though totally unconnected, I was offered the stages of Belfast” is to continue to attract artists of stature from post of General Manager and started work at the home and abroad to Belfast. “I became involved in Queen’s Festival and in the theatre just a few weeks later! Those nine years at “If I could sum up Festival 2013 in just three words student Fringe Festival, which were the only real Hampstead were the happiest of my life.” they would be – contemporary, participatory Richard Wakely is one of the most creative, outlets for culture and arts in Northern Ireland and relevant,” said Richard. “Undoubtedly, the well-respected and driven individuals on the at the time. It’s fair to say, thanks to the likes of Richard, by then partnered to fellow dance and Opening Concert with José Carreras is a wonderful international arts scene. A career spanning Michael Barnes and Betty Craig, that Queen’s was theatre producer Teerth Chungh, moved back to coup for Belfast and to end things in style we more than 30 years has seen him involved in a candle in dark nights in the late 70s,” he added. Ireland as Managing Director of Dublin’s Abbey have the Ulster Orchestra performing Strauss drama, dance and film around the world. Past Theatre in 2000. After managing the National and Wagner in the closing concert. But the re- engagements have included curating and Theatre of Ireland for several years, he went on establishment of a revitalised and intimate Music producing pieces for Cork and Liverpool during “If I could sum up to curate a major, two year cultural exchange Club (a nod to the Guinness Spot of years gone their time as European Capital of Culture. He programme between Ireland and China, the seeds by) with its roots based in alternative music from has produced, co-produced and transferred 18 Festival 2013 in for which were sown at his alma mater. the likes of Carminho, Eric Bibb and Hem, ticks a productions to London’s West End and New just three words number of boxes and is certainly worthy of being York’s Broadway, and toured award-winning The Abbey holds an important place in Richard’s called a highlight.” performances not just in the UK and Ireland but they would be – heart with his now late grandmother having throughout Europe, Asia and South America. regaled him in his youth with stories of attending A successful Festival is not just about the numbers. contemporary, opening nights there. In more recent years, he “There’s no single measure of success,” said “Being appointed Director of the Ulster Bank has developed a love for contemporary dance Richard. “It’s more a combination of things - Belfast Festival is both an honour and a privilege,” participatory and, in 2007, co-founded an annual platform of tickets sales, the levels of engagement, audience Richard told the University earlier in the year. new dance from Ireland at Dance Base as part of response, the continued support of our funders, and relevant...” the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Richard has also the ability to attract artists of stature, particularly “My mission is to continue to bring the world’s produced for several choreographers and dance from abroad and the reaction of the media.” best performers, known and unknown, to the “I really appreciate the great pastoral care I was companies at home and abroad, and remains a stages of Belfast, to challenge preconceptions afforded by the Deans and others. This greatly member of the Board of Directors of Dance Ireland. And there are roles in the Ulster Bank Belfast about the arts, create compelling new experiences, influenced the future direction of my career – Festival at Queen’s for students and for alumni as and to ensure Festival can increasingly open its indeed of my life - as I would just have dropped The grounds for Richard’s return to Northern well. “I would love to see more graduates getting arms to audiences at home and across the world.” out of university otherwise,” said Richard. Ireland were prepared with the rebirth of the involved by signing up as Festival volunteers. Lyric Theatre. As consultant on that project, he You never know what new artist or performer the Richard Wakely was born in Nottingham in 1959, “I was always much more comfortable in the drama collaborated with visionaries like Sid McDowell, experience might introduce alumni to.” the son of Richard Senior - a manager of the theatre than in the lecture theatre,” said Richard. Professor Sir George Bain, and Lyric Chairman, Woolwich Building Society in Coleraine - and “As a student I spent much of the autumn months Mark Carruthers. Collaboration, partnership and audience mother Beryl. The family moved to Belfast when volunteering in the box office where I learned so involvement are central to this year’s Festival, and he was just one year old, where he later attended much from Michael and Betty. Festival then was Apart from having to curate a programme in just should ensure that the annual arts smorgasbord Grosvenor High School, before coming to Queen’s more than a series of cultural events aimed at the eight weeks, the main challenge was the small will provide even more diversity than usual. With to study Geography in the late 1970s. student populous – it was an education in itself, matter of the economy - the squeeze on public Richard at the helm, we’re in for a fun ride! and enabled me to view life outside University.” and personal finances – a challenge that Richard is “I was very interested in geography and wanted quick to acknowledge. For details of this year’s Festival and how to to explore the cultures and the peoples of other Back in the 1970s, the Belfast Festival at Queen’s become a Festival volunteer, go to countries in an academic way,” explained Richard. and the Fringe Festival - were unique and “I appreciate that there has been a huge decline in www.belfastfestival.com or telephone the box courageous. Fringe was the first arts organisation disposable income in recent years and am working office on +44 (0) 28 9097 1197. For details of all to make Festival more accessible to all pockets.” Queen’s events go to www.whatsonatqueens.com 14 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 15

Watching what we eat!

Professor Chris Elliott, Director of the Institute impact for the UK globally and to keep the country for Global Food Security at Queen’s, has been at the forefront of food security. appointed to a new Food Economy Task Force aiming to boost the UK’s food economy through Speaking about his most recent appointment, world class collaboration. He joins 15 leaders from Professor Elliott said: “Food production is a truly business, universities and government in the Task global and highly competitive business. The UK Force to be chaired by Justin King, Chief Executive must produce the highest quality graduates that Queen’s ambitious fundraising campaign was launched in 2012 to raise £140 million over five years. of Sainsbury’s. will understand the complexities and opportunities Read on to discover some of the highlights of the last 12 months’ achievements which are helping of operating in the global marketplace. The Queen’s to “Go Beyond!” This is the latest high-profile appointment for establishment of the Task Force is an important Professor Elliott, who earlier in the summer was step in the further development of vital industry- chosen by the Department for Environment, Food academia partnerships.” Centre for Experimental Medicine and Rural Affairs and the Department of Health to lead an independent review of Britain’s food The £33m Institute for Global Food Security at system, in light of the widespread horsemeat Queen’s was opened in March by Philip Clarke, Construction of Queen’s £32m Centre for Charitable Trust, the Insight Trust for the Visually scandal earlier in the year. CEO Tesco PLC, to improve global food security Experimental Medicine (CEM) on the University’s Impaired and The Queen’s University of Belfast through the establishment of an international Institute of Health Sciences campus on Jubilee Foundation. The review will focus on consumer confidence ‘food-fortress’ in Belfast. It will be a key partner in Road, opposite Belfast City Hospital, is well in the authenticity of all food products and any national and global efforts to provide the world’s underway. When it opens for business in 2015, CEM will weaknesses in supply networks which could growing population with a sustainable, safe and provide accommodation for some 330 members of have implications for food safety and public secure supply of high-quality food. Ensuring the Ensuring the safety of our food The Centre is a key focus of Queen’s ambitious staff specialising in research into finding cures for health. Professor Elliott and his team will look at safetysafety ofof ourour foodfood £140m Beyond fundraising campaign, which will eye disease and diabetes, and the development of the causes of the systemic failure that enabled togethertogethertogether wewewe cancancan gogogo provide philanthropic funding to support research a global programme to aid understanding of the the 2013 horsemeat scandal, the roles and of global significance and importance. The four- genetics of complex chronic diseases. responsibilities of businesses throughout the food storey building will be adjacent to the existing supply chain to consumers, and how to support Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology to Speaking as construction got underway on the consumer confidence. encourage joint working and discovery between site earlier in the year, Professor Patrick Johnston, researchers. Dean of the School of Medicine, Dentistry and The review began in early June and will take up Biomedical Sciences said: “This new Centre will to a year to complete. Interim findings will be Almost half the funding for CEM (£15m), came be a key driver for change in a range of health submitted in December and a final report by from The Atlantic Philanthropies, the University’s and biotechnology activities in Northern Ireland spring 2014. largest ever single donation. Additional backing and further afield. Today’s announcement that has been received through a series of grants and construction is due to begin is good news for The Food Economy Task Force, launched by the philanthropic donations from the UK Research everyone in Northern Ireland as we can all look National Centre for Universities and Business, has Partnership Investment Fund, The Wellcome Trust, forward to benefiting from improved diagnosis and been set up to ensure that business and university The Wolfson Foundation, The Sir Jules Thorn treatments of debilitating diseases.” activities are aligned to get maximum economic

more than 1,200 international Toronto graduates gather students study at Queen’s

Almost 50 alumni and guests attended a reception at The University Club of Toronto in May, hosted by Queen’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Peter Gregson, and Mr Tony Russell, an eminent Queen’s has Canada-based alumnus. over 250 buildings; 97 of Professor Danny McAuley (right), of the Centre for these are Infection and Immunity, gave a presentation on listed acute lung injury and on his ongoing collaboration with St Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. Among guests was Dr Kenneth Gorman (left, with his daughter Rachel Harvey), a class of 1956 medical graduate, who worked in diabetes research in Toronto with the late Dr Charles Best, one of the discoverers of insulin. 16 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 17

Elite sporting opportunities To the future…and beyond!

Thanks to Queen’s Annual Fund and NIE, a team help of donations from graduates and friends, ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME of students is about to embark on a project to enhances the student experience. revamp one of Ulster’s most famous exports. To find out more about the Annual or Medical BELIEVE IN EXCEPTIONAL Ten top engineers at Queen’s will soon begin Fund, please contact Natasha Sharma on transforming the iconic 1980s DeLorean car into +44 (0) 28 9097 3928 or e-mail a roadworthy 21st century electric vehicle. It is [email protected] expected to take the students until summer 2015 before the old petrol system has been removed and replaced with an electric one.

The initiative, the first of its kind in the UK, is billed Queen’s Sport has launched an Elite Athlete per student per year, based on achievement. It is as ‘providing students with a practical project to Programme (EAP) to provide exceptional hoped the initiative will also help to promote and learn about electric vehicle technology and new prospective students who compete at the highest develop Sporting Academies and Clubs at Queen’s smart electric technologies.’ level in sport with a platform to achieve both by the attraction of elite athletes. Recipients will sporting and academic goals. act as University Ambassadors when participating Led by lecturer and researcher Dr David Laverty, NIE scholarship students in Queen’s recruitment initiatives throughout their the project was one of 20 to secure funding this Neil Johnston and Orla Martin at the launch of DeLorean project Benefits include a significant contribution time on the programme. year from Queen’s Annual Fund which, with the towards fees, accommodation and international competition costs throughout the athlete’s Among inaugural EAP award recipients are university journey. Also available through the • Katie Kirk, BSc Food, Quality, Safety and initiative is: Nutrition - Irish U23 800m athletics champion Drug discovery partnership • access to sporting scholarships and bursaries • Tiernan Oliver, LLB Law with French - Irish • academic support, mentoring and career advice National Rowing Champion • lifestyle management • Lorcan Dow, BSc Psychology - Irish Exiles U18 A £13m partnership was announced in September CCRCB in an industry-led venture. The discovery • catering and nutritional budget rugby captain to accelerate local cancer-focused drug discovery. team will work to identify parts of tumours which • expert coaching and the very best in athlete • Laurence McGivern, BSc As part of the project, Queen’s and Almac are susceptible to treatment by cancer drugs and support services. Accounting with Discovery are to schedule a phase one clinical trial to then develop the new drugs to target them. French - London for ovarian cancer, involving the first novel cancer The new programme is being led by Professor Tim Starting this October, the new programme Paralympic finalist S19 drug fully developed in Northern Ireland. Harrison, Vice President of Discovery Chemistry package is estimated to be worth up to £8,000 100m backstroke with Almac Discovery. As part of this partnership, Involving up to 60 ovarian cancer patients, the Professor Harrison has been appointed McClay Queen’s drug being trialled was created as a result of an Chair of Medicinal Chemistry at Queen’s for the Successful telephone campaign for graduates have earlier collaboration between Almac Discovery and next three years. given over the School of Pharmacy’s Professor Tracy Robson. medical fund £20m since 2013; helping queen’s Explaining about the trial, Professor Robson ‘go beyond’ said: “This latest trial involves a new treatment Medical undergraduates were part of a dedicated I know there are a limited for cancer known as ALM201, which rather than team of student callers who undertook a telephone number available, but attacking tumours directly, prevents the growth fundraising campaign in support of the recently hopefully the Queen’s of new blood vessels in tumours, starving them of established Queen’s Medical Fund. Medical Fund will help to ensure that many more oxygen and nutrients, and thereby preventing their students can have this opportunity in the future.” growth. It targets tumours by an entirely different The campaign resulted in £32,000 being pledged pathway to those treatments currently approved.” over the next three years which will help to provide additional summer studentships in Research At the same time it was also announced that a Centres in the School of Medicine, new CCRCB/Almac Discovery joint programme Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, and to offer in Cancer Drug Discovery will bring researchers support to intercalating students. Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster with Alan from Queen’s Centre for Cancer Research and Armstrong, CEO Almac and Professor David Waugh, Cell Biology and scientists from Almac Discovery Director, CCRCB Among those who shared their experiences of life together to translate research discoveries into as a Queen’s medic with alumni was third year, treatments for patients. Natalie Catherwood, who went on to undertake an eight-week summer studentship in the Regional The two projects represent a total investment To find out more about the Beyond Campaign, or Genetics Laboratory in Belfast City Hospital. “I of £13m, with £7m of support offered by Invest to request a brochure, contact Norma Sinte on really enjoyed contacting the graduates, hearing Northern Ireland, which includes part funding from +44 (0) 28 9097 3114 or e-mail [email protected] their stories and even getting a few tips on how Queen’s Medical Fund Student Callers the European Regional Development Fund. to survive medical school,’ said Natalie. “I feel (Natalie Catherwood front right) As a result of the joint programme, 17 scientists www.queensfoundation.com privileged to have been offered this studentship as from Almac Discovery have been seconded to 18 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 19

Sara Boyle Helene Bovy School of Geography, Archaeology and School of Biological Sciences Research Showcase Palaeoecology Helene Bovy started her PhD research in January Each year, hundreds of postgraduate students at Queen’s engage in a wide range of research projects Sara Boyle is a third-year postgrad in the 2012, so is a recent addition to the Ecology, which ultimately affect the lives of people - not just in Northern Ireland, but further afield. From Past Cultural Change Cluster in the School of Evolution, Behaviour and Environmental exploration of the earliest European civilisation to the development of drug regimens for those with Geography, Archaeology and Palaeoecology. Her Economics research cluster in the School of cardiovascular disease, the research is as diverse as it is important. In Research Showcase a number of research pulled together a huge archaeological Biology. Under the supervision of Professors Jaimie current postgraduates outline their work and its wider impact. survey carried out by her supervisor, Dr Caroline Dick and Mark Emmerson, Helene’s research Malone, and has identified several thousand small focuses on invasive species impacts, and more archaeological sites on the island of Gozo (Maltese precisely, methods for predicting these impacts. Magda Foreiter Pamela Linden Islands). Sara’s and Dr Malone’s research in Malta Biological invasions are a recurrent theme in Queen’s University Ionic Liquid Laboratories School of History and Anthropology has just resulted in a grant of ¤2.49m from the European Research Council to Caroline, to trace ecology and have been listed as one of the top the environmental context and social dynamics of threats to biodiversity. While the magnitude of In April 2013, ionic liquids were voted the Great Pamela Linden, who graduated from Queen’s impact can vary, they can be extremely costly, British Innovation of the 21st century. Queen’s in 2003, has returned to the School of History the Maltese Temple Culture – the first European civilisation. both environmentally and economically; in Europe University Ionic Liquid Laboratories Research & Anthropology to research Jewish identity and alone, they are estimated to cost over £10 billion Centre (QUILL) is at the forefront of UK excellence. community in Belfast, 1914-53. Her PhD is funded a year. by DEL and is supervised by Professor Peter Gray. Sara told The Graduate: “My PhD research has QUILL is a well-proven industry/university co- explored the archaeological study of settlement within a small island setting. The use of Speaking about her work with invasive species, operative research centre, which gathers more than As Belfast’s first non-Christian minority, the city’s Helene commented: “The Grey Squirrel is 50 scientists on site, including Magda Foreiter. Jewish community provides a unique position from Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology provided a comprehensive methodological decimating Red Squirrel populations, and which to examine religious and cultural identity in Japanese Knotweed can significantly damage

more than 6,000 postgrads study at Pamela with Professors Peter Gray (left) Queen’s and Tony Kushner

“I joined QUILL as a PhD student (under Professor the newly established state of Northern Ireland, infrastructure. By finding methods to accurately Ken Seddon) to explore chiral ionic liquids – one addressing broader themes of assimilation and framework which has enabled my research to move from a consideration of the artefactual remnants and efficiently predict impacts of invasive species, of many branches of ionic liquids science. Ionic political participation. resources can be better allocated and prioritised liquids are ‘green solvents’ with negligible vapour of settlement activity, to their composition as settlement sites, and their place within the broader in order to facilitate their management and pressure and reusability, which save our planet Of particular interest was the discovery of archival eradication.” from pollution by replacing old nasty agents material relating to the activities of the Belfast dynamics of settlement systems. traditionally used in industrial processes.” Jewish Refugee Committee prior to and during Helene’s PhD is funded jointly by a Queen’s WWII. The material was included in a collection “The Maltese Islands, and island of Gozo in particular, provided an excellent opportunity to University Award and the Controlling Priority Magda has had an opportunity to work closely with held in Jerusalem and had not been consulted Invasive Species and Restoring Native Biodiversity QUILL’s industrial members, including PETRONAS prior to Pamela’s research. The correspondence put this framework into practice: the megalithic monuments of the islands’ prehistoric era have (CIRB) project. The latter, headed by Professor in Malaysia. Members not only provide funding, provides insights into the response of both the Christine Maggs, is a £2.6m project launched but ultimately set the trends for future research Jewish community and the Northern Ireland captured the imaginations of scholars for centuries, leaving the wider prehistoric landscape poorly at Queen’s in February 2011, looking at ways to according to the actual needs of their industry. Government to the hundreds of applications made control and possibly eradicate harmful invasive by Jewish refugees seeking to leave Nazi occupied understood and disconnected from the impressive archaeology of the major prehistoric sites. plant species from river catchments in Ireland, “It was a great and unusual experience for a PhD areas of Europe. Northern Ireland and Scotland. student in chemistry, which builds up a great “Not only has my research established the most confidence in your research”, Magda said. Having Her research has also enabled Pamela to work on “My involvement with CIRB is allowing me to this support, she has attended numerous scientific an exciting project to place a copy of the personal complete record of prehistoric settlement activity yet known for the Maltese Islands, it also provides investigate one of the trickier sides of ecology, meetings in the UK and US presenting her work correspondence of Belfast’s longest serving Rabbi, as all species and environments are directly and and networking with other scientists in the ionic Jacob Shachter, on permanent loan to Queen’s new insight into human-environment interactions within a Mediterranean island setting and offers a indirectly linked. My research is contributing to the liquids field and beyond. She is currently Chair Special Collections. The Shachter papers now much needed experimental data to understand and principal organiser of the Gordon Research form the centre of a Jewish Studies collection in methodological framework which can be applied to the investigation of past populations within any how to better predict invasive species’ impact on Seminar on Green Chemistry to be held in Hong- Special Collections, making an excellent addition multiple levels.” Kong next year. to Ross-Rosenzeig and Rosenfield papers already region and across any time period.” held there. 20 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 21

Matthew Wilson Kate Johnson School of Pharmacy School of Geography, Archaeology and Palaeoecology Making a Matthew Wilson is a final year PhD student in the Pharmaceutical Sciences and Practice Research Kate Johnson is a member of the Environmental Cluster in the School of Pharmacy, though he Change research cluster lead by Dr Chris first graduated from the School of Chemical Hunt, Reader in Palaeoecology and Director of Difference Engineering with a first class honours in 2007. Research, Environmental Change in the School of Geography, Archaeology and Palaeoecology ‘Graduate employability is a Matthew spent a year pursuing sporting interests working with Professor Keith Bennett. primary concern for students before joining local medical device company, TG and addressing this will be Eakin, as a Research Associate through a Queen’s Kate is studying the genetics of different a priority during my term as operated Knowledge Transfer Partnership or KTP. populations of monkey-puzzle trees in the Andes, President.’ Promises outlined in Argentina. Monkey puzzle trees are very important Niall McShane’s spring manifesto With his sights firmly set on high-level research to the ecology of the mountainous southern parts are one thing; making sure that he applied for a Department of Education and of South America. She is also studying their fossil Queen’s students stand out in Learning (DEL) funded PhD project working under record, through subfossil pollen grains preserved an increasingly competitive job the direction of Dr Gavin Andrews and Professor in lake deposit sequences. market are another, as Gerry David Jones. His project involves the development Power, editor of The Graduate, of novel oral drug delivery systems (tablets) that “My research is investigating recent environmental found out when he spoke to the offer the possibility of combining two or more change in northern Patagonia. I have had two new Student President. drugs in a single formulation. months of field work during my PhD, collecting leaves from the monkey puzzle tree and sampling The project utilises the expertise of hospital

Finance graduate Niall McShane took over the Yvonne and brothers Mark and Connor are also reins as President of the Students’ Union on 1 July graduates. 2013, having served two terms as Vice President. With ambitions for a career in finance from the “I really enjoyed my time as a student and was outset, he spent his degree placement year in keen, when the opportunity came around and Queen’s Finance Office, which also gave him a having served two terms as Vice President Clubs unique insight into the running of the University. As and Societies, to put myself forward for election as such there is very little the affable Co. Armagh man President.” doesn’t know about the machinations of student life, or of the relationship between the University Having been elected with over 1,600 votes, Niall and the student body. represents the views of all 23,000 students to the University, the Media and to external bodies, so “My best memories of Queen’s would have to be that positive change can be achieved on the issues pharmacists, material scientists and engineers to sediment from lakes for analysis. the friends I made throughout my studies. I really that affect Queen’s students. improve the major issue of non-compliance of enjoyed nights out with those from my course as dosage regimes associated with cardiovascular “The vegetation in the region has been widely part of the Finance Society and playing for the “The top three issues patients. affected by recent volcanic events that have left Gaelic Football Team,” said Niall. large quantities of volcanic pumice in the region. for students remain Matthew explains: “Cardiovascular disease (CVD) The monkey puzzle tree has thick bark to protect it, “During those four years the campus changed so patients often face the issue of noncompliance of and has therefore survived in central Argentina and much – the transformational McClay Library sprung the pound in their dosage regimes, due to the high number of tablets Chile for thousands of years. Glaciations have also up in a corner of Botanic Gardens, looking instantly prescribed and the time(s) of day at which they shaped the landscape and vegetation, with the like it had been there for years, and the Dub – now pocket, employment are to be taken. Various drugs are administered in monkey puzzle tree surviving in ice-free areas not Queen’s Sport Upper Malone – changed beyond the morning whereas others perform better when dissimilar to its current range”, said Kate. all recognition, giving Queen’s Clubs a home to be prospects and the taken in the evening when cholesterol biosynthesis proud of,” he added. is at its peak. This dosage regime often leads Until now, little was known about how patterns quality of their to patients forgetting to take medication, thus of distribution of the monkey puzzle tree have Niall, during his time as a student, played for both education.” missing a dose.” changed in response to climate change and how the Freshers and Sigerson Gaelic football teams. they might behave in response to global warming. He also served as the Club’s treasurer, an early In providing such a platform, patient compliance, Kate’s work will show how the different populations indication perhaps of his career aspirations and he “I am committed to engaging with all students clinical outcomes and management of of these trees have responded in the past to now returns home to Cullyhanna twice a week to and to making a real difference, and with the CVDs may be improved. Through the use of periods of climate change, enabling predictions play football for St Patrick’s GAA Club where he is experience as Vice President behind me I believe advanced extrusion technologies developed at about their future behaviour to be made. currently a Committee member. that I can.” Queen’s, multi-layer solid dosage forms will be manufactured that will offer immediate release and He grew up on his father’s farm with his two With current financial pressures, the cost of controlled release of two drugs in a single solid For details on all Queen’s research go to brothers and his sister. Perhaps it was inevitable accommodation and the ever challenging dosage form. www.qub.ac.uk/home/ResearchandEnterprise that he would study at Queen’s as his mother prospects of students getting a job once they 22 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 23

graduate, Niall faces a tougher situation than many And former students can still play a vital part in the of his forerunners. Students today can expect to life of the University, as Niall is keen to point out. leave Queen’s with, on average, £20k debt. “Graduates of Queen’s have experience that “University is so much more than just getting a current students are really envious of, so there’s degree, which, in many ways, is taken as a given. clearly an important role for alumni in the Students’ Job prospects are enhanced by the extracurricular Union of today. We are always on the lookout activities undertaken while students are here and for volunteers for our Enterprise Unit to assist in which help their CVs to stand out. It is important student development, to sign up as mentors or that students do whatever possible to develop even to address students as guest speakers at their personal profiles while they are here.” careers events,” said Niall.

“As part of a new employability campaign I plan “I am committed to run an ‘inspiration series’ for current students to engaging with where graduates share their skills, stories and experiences with today’s students – giving them all students and the confidence to be the leaders of tomorrow. That’s certainly something I’d be keen to hear from to making a real interested graduates on.

difference.” “If alumni feel they can help inspire students to achieve more, then I’d love them to get in touch. Niall’s immediate predecessor as President was Or if anyone would like a tour of the Students’ Get involved, Jason O’Neill who, by any measure, had two very Union - and a chance to reminisce on former days - successful years in office. With the Students’ Union I would be delighted to show them around.” now in what has been described by one observer as a ‘good place’ – currently ranked fifth in the UK When he finds time, if he’s not kicking a football be a mentor (Times Higher) and the best in Ireland – Niall will that is, Niall enjoys reading autobiographies, have his work cut out. cycling or genning up on the latest thinking in entrepreneurship and social enterprise. But how “Jason really started things rolling,” said Niall, does he see things panning out after his year as Securing the right job has never been more “and I want to continue that momentum and build ‘first citizen’? critical for graduates. Ian Moore, Head of Alumni on his firm foundations. The Students’ Union can Relations and Annual Giving, suggests that an justifiably aspire to being the best in UK and if “I am still keeping my options open, but would alumni mentor can be a crucial stepping stone to our endorsements by third parties, such as the perhaps like to join a business development career success. National Student Survey, continue and we can consultancy. Longer term, I would quite like to run show that we have made a real difference to my own business,” Niall added confidently. According to many leading companies, Queen’s current students, then being No 1 is an achievable students are among the most employable entering aim.” Niall McShane describes himself as personable, the national graduate job market. However, dedicated and committed and he is clearly all 93% of 2011-12 opportunities in Northern Ireland are the most The last six years have seen a huge transformation three. With these important attributes he is very competitive in the UK with only 25% of graduate in the Students’ Union, starting with a major likely to achieve everything he sets out in his time graduates were employers offering posts here compared with 84% refurbishment of the University Road building in in office and in the years afterwards. in work or study in London and roughly 50% in all other regions. 2007 which brought a dull 1960s construction six months after And to make matters more difficult, a huge 33% bang up-to-date both internally and in its If you would like to help the Enterprise Unit or graduation of all graduate jobs go to individuals who have appearance. The Union is still as important as ever, visit the Students’ Union building, Meaghan Lyons already worked for that employer. giving advice, offering representation, providing can connect you with Niall - email: innovative initiatives and programmes for over [email protected] or telephone To boost employability, a new Alumni Career 20,000 students and encouraging involvement and +44 (0) 28 9097 3135. Mentoring Scheme was launched at the University engagement.

more than Investment banks are believed to offer the highest graduate starting salaries (over £45k/annum), but 8,000 students even the average graduate salary in the UK is now reported to be £29,000* - a figure that might impress are members many older graduates. There has been no increase in the average salary, however, for the last four years of a club or despite graduates leaving university facing rising living costs and with increased levels of student debt. society *High Fliers Research Limited (2013) - The Graduate Market in 2013 24 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 25

Niall Watters, BSc International Business with Spanish John Murtagh, BSc Business Administration 1995, 2013; Student Mentee 2013. Global Head of Operations (FQS Capital Partners LLP); Alumni Mentor 2012 and 2013. “I finished studying at Queen’s this year and recently started a new job as a Revenue Analyst in Amadeus IT Group SA in Madrid, Spain “We all recall as students that we thought we knew it all. It was only which is a bit of a leap for a boy from Culloville in Co Armagh. But when we were about to graduate that we realised how little we really I think my whole experience in the mentoring scheme has been knew about the big, bad world we were about to enter. fantastic. It gave me the confidence to get this job and I have really learned a lot. “From working in firms where mentoring is part of the culture, I have learnt how beneficial a mentor can be. It can often be the smallest “My mentor, John Murtagh, has been absolutely brilliant and has of life lessons that can make the biggest of differences and I’m sure done so much to provide me with the best information, whether it be most of the alumni reading this will think ‘if I had someone help me about courses, graduate schemes or even newspaper articles that he when I was graduating then I would have done things differently’. felt would be of benefit to me. “A good mentor offers simple, but effective advice suggesting avenues that the graduating student “John has opened my eyes and has not only encouraged me, but has also inspired me to keep hasn’t thought of; he or she not only guides, but broadens horizons. striving to achieve the best that I possibly can. For a man with such a busy schedule to take the time to get in contact with me in the way that he has, I am truly grateful. “When the University introduced the scheme I was keen to be involved. It has certainly been an excellent experience and I would recommend it to other Queen’s alumni. The students I have “This is a brilliant programme, very beneficial. I am delighted I took part in it and would advise any mentored have been keen to learn and acted upon the advice that I was able to offer them and it is other student offered the opportunity to participate to grab the chance with both hands.” so rewarding to work with them when they have such enthusiasm and drive to succeed.”

in 2011 to provide students with opportunities to mentoring process, matched mentors and mentees It was a very enjoyable Alumni mentors from an amazing variety of engage with inspiring alumni who have used their engage in a series of four positive and constructive industries have already participated from all Queen’s degree as a platform to success. Students conversations about the student’s career and experience. I was proud to corners of the globe including Northern Ireland, can use participation in the initiative as part of their employability enhancement plans. While time continue my links with the London, New York and Asia. In fact, the levels of evidence towards a Degree Plus award. commitment from the alumni mentors is negligible, alumni experience, achievement and expertise the impact on their mentees is potentially University and delighted to share have surpassed the expectations of participating In brief, a mentor is someone with first-hand immeasurable. students. experience of the world of work who serves as my own career experiences. a trusted confidante and guide over a period of Reflecting on my own practice time. For those being mentored (often referred The experience was really useful. Could you help? to as mentees) the benefits are obvious – expert We discussed the skills that I was as useful for me as for the advice which helps them get ahead in their career. mentee. If you are interested in supporting this, or other For the mentor it is a way of giving something already had but didn’t realise. career initiatives to help students, please contact back (in this case to Queen’s) but they may also The mentor helped me to pull (Brian McGilloway, School Teacher and Alumni Meaghan Lyons (email: [email protected] or tel: get involved to develop their skills as a manager or Mentor, 2012) +44 (0) 28 9097 3135) and ensure we have your business leader. So a true mentoring relationship achievements and professional latest employment information by updating your works in both directions – the mentor learns new qualities out of part-time work Students have been amazed by the personalised personal update form* on the alumni website ideas from his/her mentee just as the student support and guidance given to them by alumni www.daro.qub.ac.uk/feedback receives timeless wisdom from those who have and group projects. I learnt how working in the specific career they aspire to. gone before them – much like Daniel and Miyagi in to ‘sell my stuff’! We endeavour to provide students with the best the Karate Kid movies of the 1980s. mentor to suit their aspirations, so the more I am going to New York this offers of help we receive from alumni (Student Mentee, 2012) The Higher Education Statistics Agency has summer and will meet my (and the more we know about your career achievements) the demonstrated through career destination surveys It is already common for alumni who are high mentor, while I am in town. She better the support we can that those who study Humanities courses often achievers to return to Queen’s to share their provide students. face the greatest challenges in securing graduate experiences and motivations with current is going to introduce me to her level employment. The Queen’s mentoring undergraduates. Events, including guest *NB You will need initiative therefore targets (though not exclusively) speakerships, career alumni information sessions contacts and they might also to be logged onto those students in Arts, Humanities and Social and fast-track networking evenings are all help me. It is incredible when I the alumni website Sciences who are open to considering some of opportunities for students to learn and graduates 25,000 people to fill in the form the wider career options available to them in areas to ‘give something back’. think about it and what could on LinkedIn such as management, consultancy or other ‘any so if you have not cite Queen’s in potentially come from this! already registered discipline’ opportunities. Mentoring, however, now offers alumni (usually at https://daro.qub. their profiles those five to 20 years into their career) the chance (Tony Houston, Student Mentee, 2012) ac.uk/login, please Interested students and alumni make a formal to interact personally with a specific student and do so first. application to the scheme and are then provided help plan their future success. with training before being ‘matched’. During the 26 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 27

A token of gratitude stay associated with Queen’s and to pay back in some way for her indebtedness to the University. Volunteering - Giving Dr Marion Gibson’s volunteer history spans back to the In May 2013, Dr Gibson was elected President early 1960s, when her of the Irish Federation of University Women for a late husband, a vicar, was term of three years. She had previously served on time and talent the Queen’s Graduates’ Association committee for appointed to a busy parish in East Belfast. Recently eight years. married and a new mother, Alumni Officer, Meaghan Lyons explores all Dr Clive Black, one of the UK’s top five she volunteered her time Volunteering with QWG has also led to Dr Gibson the ways graduates can get involved. She stockbroking analysts in food and drug retailing, Dr Marion and experience gained as a travelling extensively to attend International Gibson Federation Conferences throughout Ireland, celebrates award winner Dr Clive Black, and has won the inaugural Graduate Volunteer of the student nurse in many church Year Award. and community roles. Her Europe, and Australia. Her most recent trip was talks to long-time Queen’s volunteer, Dr husband’s untimely death to Istanbul in August 2013 to represent the Marion Gibson and to the most recent recruit Dr Black graduated in 1985 with a BSSc in Human from cancer in 1975 forced Marion to restructure Irish Federation amongst the 500 international on the Queen’s Graduates’ Association Geography and in 1991 with a PhD. He is an active her life as a one parent family and, in turn, to delegates. Committee, Feargus McCauley, to find out member of Queen’s City Leadership Group which return to her studies. what motivated them to become involved. organises and funds internships for top Queen’s “I like challenges and enjoy working with people students in leading London city firms and in “I had no professional qualifications but had by using my training and experience in a volunteer Graduate Volunteer of the Year Liverpool and Edinburgh where Clive’s company, acquired certificates in Child Playgroup work as a capacity, even though this desire has taken me Shore Capital Stockbrokers, has offices. means of enhancing my role in the Parish amongst into many difficult situations at home and abroad,” young mothers,” said Dr Gibson. “Later a post said Dr Gibson. “I give of my time as a volunteer In March, Dr Black was instrumental in securing as a playgroup assistant working with vulnerable as a token of gratitude to all who have helped the participation of Tesco CEO Philip Clarke at children who had a range of disabilities and who me in the past and who continue to support and the opening of the University’s £33m Institute of were socially disadvantaged added to my practical encourage me.” Global Food Security. He is also a strong supporter experience of supporting people who had been of Queen’s Chief Executives’ Club – the University’s traumatised, made me determined to become a In the service of others direct link with local captains of industry – where professional social worker.” he was a keynote speaker last November. Feargus McCauley, BSc Dr Gibson obtained her Master’s in 1989, after a Business Administration Speaking at the Awards, Norma Sinte, Director of gruelling regime of studying in the evening while 1996, is a Senior Development and Alumni Relations, said: employed full-time. She vowed never to study Manager at Allstate in again, but soon jumped back in for more. “My Belfast. Though not “I am delighted that Clive’s commitment son provided the challenge I needed to do my actively engaged as to Queen’s has been acknowledged. Doctorate. He said to me, ‘Maybe you should a volunteer until April keep going as at your age, your brain might seize of this year he was For his active and direct support of up!’” added Marion. Her research focused on the elected Vice President current students and for helping to put provision of psychological support to those who Feargus of the QGA at its most McCauley Queen’s - and the Northern Ireland agri- respond to the needs of people in the aftermath of recent AGM. Dr Clive Black with food sector - on the map, he is a worthy traumatic incidents. Norma Sinte For Feargus, his recipient of this Award.” Marion first joined the Queen’s Women Graduates road to the Vice (QWG) in 1989, signing up because she wanted to Presidency started at

As graduates of Queen’s you have experienced first-hand the transformative nature of a first class There are many ways to volunteer from mentoring a student to offering a venue for an event. Whatever education. Graduation in itself need not be the end of your connections with your Alma Mater; on the you choose, giving something back will make a huge difference and a big impression. contrary there are many ways to stay involved and to make a real impact. For example, the University is inviting its alumni to share their knowledge and skills to help preserve the quality of that education for For further information on Queen’s volunteering programme, contact Alumni Officer Meaghan Lyons future generations. (email: [email protected] or tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 3135). Provide a student internship Talk to prospective students Offer a venue/host an event Submit your profile To find out more about hosting an intern in Queen’s recruitment team needs your presence at We are always on the lookout for interesting Inspire the next generation of Queen’s graduates London, Dublin or New York contact Rachael fairs around the world to help inform prospective venues that alumni might enjoy visiting, so if you by emailing your career profile for our website to Sands (email: [email protected] or tel: +44 (0) 28 students about life in Belfast. Contact Meaghan are able to offer somewhere (in Belfast or around [email protected]. 9097 3233). Lyons to indicate your interest (email: m.lyons@ the world) please let us know at [email protected] qub.ac.uk or tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 3135). Organise a reunion Mentor a student Write for the alumni magazine The Development Office offers support to You can offer help and advice to a student Speak at an event If you have a story to tell, tell us and we’ll tell the volunteers organising class reunions by providing considering working in your profession. For Speakers are required for events both on-campus world! Gerry Power, editor of The Graduate, would mailing lists and guidance on venues. Contact more information contact Meaghan Lyons (email: and wherever we have chapters. Contact Meaghan love to hear from you (email: [email protected] or Adele Ward (email: [email protected] or tel: [email protected] or tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 3135). Lyons (email: [email protected] or tel: +44 (0) 28 tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 5321). +44 (0) 28 9097 5289) if you are thinking about a 9097 3135) for more information. reunion. 28 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 29

a dinner which recognised London 2012 Olympic “Getting elected as Vice President of the QGA was Gamesmakers. “It all began at last year’s Charter a very humbling experience,” Feargus continued. Day Dinner,” said Feargus. “I got into conversation “It’s already introduced me to a great many people with several members of the QGA committee and with a diverse range of skills, interests and life as I listened to them speak with such pride and experiences, all of which are very enriching. And excitement, I decided it was time to get directly with the contacts you make,” he added, “you’ll involved.” always have someone to call on for a chat no matter what challenges life throws at you!” “What motivates me most is helping others to realise their potential and to do that as part of a As veterans of volunteering will attest to, giving great team,” he said. something back is not just a one-way street. For most there are many personal gains to be made Hitting the ground running, Feargus has already and Feargus, even in just a few months, is already been proactively involved in developing the feeling the benefits of his involvement. Association’s programme. “I feel a renewed sense of energy and fulfilment, “There has been a frenzy of activity over the last which has carried over into my working life and has few weeks as we map out our strategy and events often provided new perspectives on old situations. for the next couple of years. I’m very excited at So volunteering for Queen’s really does pay off!” what is being planned and really look forward to being able to promote the University, whilst “Volunteering allows you to play a continuing role Convocation maintaining many of the great traditions the QGA in the development of the University. The best has built since its inception.” thing about it is that there are so many different ways to volunteer – there really is something for Feargus brings 15 years of experience in the local everyone. For me personally it’s great to have a Lecture IT sector to the QGA table, having held a number continuing involvement with an institution that of technical and managerial roles. In an industry provided me with some of the most fulfilling and where tight deadlines and quickly changing enjoyable years of my life,” he concluded. circumstances mean always having to have a ‘Plan Thursday, 21 November 2013 B’, adaptability is a prerequisite. And it’s a skill Conclusion at 7pm in the Canada Room/Council Chamber Feargus hopes he will bring to his role as VP. Feargus McCauley and Dr Marion Gibson are just “I think that flexibility in both approach and two of hundreds of alumni already engaged with understanding often leads to a positive result,” Queen’s in a voluntary capacity around the world. Speaker: Professor Stephen Smartt said Feargus. “This is definitely a skill which can be Whatever your talents, and whatever time you put to many uses outside of the day job. I’d also can give, there are countless opportunities to get like to think that I have developed finely tuned involved and to make a real difference. Giving Lecture title: people skills, enabling me to encourage and to get back is a ‘win win’ for everyone involved with real the best out of people – something which is very benefits for volunteers and the University alike. The origin of life in the centre of stars important in a committee situation, where you’re Remember, you could be the next Clive Black and always looking for ideas and for those with the it might just be fun too! Professor Stephen Smartt is the Director of the Astrophysics Research Centre in the School of Maths dedication and commitment to make those ideas a and Physics at Queen’s. He has worked at the Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes and held a Fellowship reality,” he added. at Cambridge. Professor Smartt’s research is into supernovae and the deaths of massive stars using the Hubble Space Telescope and some of the largest ground-based telescopes in the world.

Show your support, get connected today. Notice of Annual Meeting of Convocation

Find out more at daro.qub.ac.uk/associations The Convocation Lecture will be followed by the Annual Meeting of Convocation.

The Agenda for the Annual Meeting and the forms to submit a motion to the Annual Meeting are Queen’s Alumni Associations available on the Convocation website www.daro.qub.ac.uk/convocation and from the Clerk. All graduates of Queen’s University Belfast are welcome to attend. GET CONNECTED Please contact the Clerk of Convocation to indicate your intention to attend: Dr Heather Anderson, Clerk of Convocation, c/o School of Pharmacy, Joining entitles you to a growing list of benefits, including access to the alumni network Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL through national and regional alumni chapters and a calendar of social events. Email: [email protected] 30 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 31

and materials held by public agencies relating the disaster and I revealed precisely how those in to the context, circumstances, aftermath and authority sought to shift responsibility by alleging investigation of the disaster. I drafted the drunkenness and violence. Hillsborough: Hillsborough Family Support Group’s proposal, Hillsborough: Truth Recovery, Acknowledgement The Outcomes and Resolution. In January 2010, the Home The Prime Minister responded immediately from a The Truth Secretary appointed the Hillsborough Independent packed House of Commons apologising on behalf Panel chaired by the Bishop of Liverpool. Its key of the Government and nation for the ‘double objective was to demonstrate through research, injustice’ of Hillsborough – the disaster itself and how the disclosed material added to ‘public the failures in its investigation. The Panel’s research understanding’. had produced the ‘truth’, he stated, and ‘justice’ should follow. I was appointed to the Panel and led the research Phil Scraton is Professor of Criminology in the stadium under police supervision. Yet the aged team at Queen’s University. We were supported Within months a criminal investigation was Institute of Criminology and Criminal Justice, turnstiles malfunctioned. Crowd management by by specialist archivists at Sheffield City Archive established to consider potential prosecutions. in the School of Law at Queen’s. In 2010 he the police and stewards combined complacency and the National Archives. I worked closely with New legislation was fast-tracked enabling it to was appointed by the UK Home Secretary to with incompetence. A crush at the turnstiles was the Panel’s health specialist, Dr Bill Kirkup, on progress and the Independent Police Complaints the Hillsborough Independent Panel. Professor relieved by opening an exit gate to admit fans into the emergency response, medical treatment and Commission embarked on an unprecedented Scraton led the Queen’s-based research for the the stadium. pathology research. The Panel acquired disclosure investigation into police conduct focusing on 2,000 Panel, and was the primary author of its 395 of unredacted documents from 85 contributing police officers. In the High Court, the Attorney page report on the 1989 disaster that claimed They walked unregulated down a 1 in 6 gradient organisations and negotiated access to all relevant General secured the quashing of the accidental the lives of 96 men, women and children. Writing tunnel feeding two central pens and were unaware Cabinet and Government documents. death verdicts and new inquests were ordered. exclusively for The Graduate, Phil Scraton outlines that both pens, fenced to the side and front, They begin in March 2014. his role in the widely acclaimed Report, one year were already full. There was no way back and the The Report after its publication. compression was vice-like. As the match kicked-off The Report’s 153 key findings established: the In the subsequent House of Commons debate people went down underfoot, a barrier collapsed foreseeable, dangerous condition of the stadium; on the Report Andy Burnham stated that the Early on 12 September 2012, I arrived at the leaving a tangled mass of bodies. the primary structural causes of the disaster; the Queen’s-based research had contributed ‘a huge Anglican Cathedral in my home city of Liverpool. failures in policing and emergency response; service not just to the Hillsborough families but to It was quiet, save for a few early rising journalists Police officers on the perimeter track failed to the flawed pathology and medical evidence; this country’. He anticipated the unique research preparing for the arrival of families whose loved respond and those at a distance misread the incomplete criminal investigations; the review approach ‘with the emphasis on disclosure, not ones had died at Hillsborough Stadium on 15 struggle for life as crowd disorder. Bodies were and alteration of police and ambulance service adversarial argument’, had pioneered ‘a model for April 1989. In the Well of the Cathedral the scene dragged through the two narrow perimeter fence statements; the insufficiency of the inquests; and, resolving other contested issues arising from our was set for the presentation of the findings of the gates and laid on the pitch. Fans tore down the purposeful manipulation of the media by past’. Hillsborough Independent Panel’s Report first to advertising hoardings as makeshift stretchers. Only senior police officers. the families and then to the media. 14 of the 96 who died were taken to hospital. Professor Scraton was awarded the inaugural Presenting the detailed findings in the Cathedral Vice-Chancellor’s Impact Prize in December 2012 I thumbed through the 395 pages of the Report The Research I confirmed that from the documentary analysis and has recently been short-listed for the national for the first time. A few weeks earlier its contents The causes and circumstances of the tragedy it was clear that fans played no part in causing THES ‘Research Project of the Year’ Award. were on my laptop, shared only between Panel immediately were contested. I was commissioned members, the research team and those providing to conduct primary and documentary research essential technical support for its production. Now into all aspects of the disaster. The research team the hard copies were awaiting distribution to the attended all proceedings, conducted documentary families first. analysis and interviewed those directly involved. It led to three comprehensive reports published As the families and survivors arrived the in 1990, 1995 and 1997 and my widely-acclaimed atmosphere was solemn, expectant yet nervous. text Hillsborough: The Truth. For 23 years they had campaigned relentlessly to access the ‘truth’ of the disaster, its context and The initial research exposed serious flaws in the the abject failures of the inquiry and investigation inquiries and investigations including: review and that followed. Ninety-six men, women and children alteration of police statements; compromised were killed at Hillsborough, but many more died processes of investigation; insufficient analysis prematurely as a consequence of their suffering – of inherent dangers and foreseeable risk; both physical and psychological. inadequacies in the coronial process; disputable medical and pathological evidence regarding The Tragedy the circumstances of the deaths. At each stage, Liverpool v Nottingham Forest was an FA Cup my research with the bereaved and survivors semi-final attended by over 50,000 people. Owned established their profound dissatisfaction with the by Sheffield Wednesday FC, Hillsborough was a inquiries, investigations and inquests. neutral venue hired by the Football Association, The Hillsborough Independent Panel Report can be read at: licensed by Sheffield City Council and policed by At the 20th Anniversary Memorial Service, hillsborough.independent.gov.uk/report/ the South Yorkshire Constabulary. Fans arrived, Culture Minister Andy Burnham committed the were searched, briefed and escorted to the Government to seeking release of all documents ‘Hillsborough: The Truth’ (3rd edn) is published by Mainstream. 32 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 33

– 13 pharmacies and two Cara Home stores – with hold back just because of what others might say. a combined turnover of around €25m and plans Statistics show that it takes longer for women than for future expansion. The latest store, in Galway, men to prove themselves in the corporate world, opened in September. but I think that will change.”

Under her direction the group has won numerous Ramona attributes her success to hard work, awards and was a ‘Deloitte Best Managed determination and rejecting rejection, and sees Company’ in 2012 - a title which Ramona plans self-belief as critical, not just for women. Success, to hold on to in 2013 and 2014 with a view to she says, starts in the head with the belief that achieving the Gold Standard in 2015. Cara has also whatever you are doing, you can do it. ‘Dream it, been a finalist in a number of Irish business awards create it, do it, be it’ – often attributed to another and the company’s Co Cavan pharmacy won the of her business role models, TV mogul Oprah ‘Retail Store of the Year 2012’ in the recent Cavan Winfrey – is a mantra she lives by. She believes too Des Moore, First Trust Tourism Awards. that rejection is an integral part of business. Bank (left), Ramona, Alex and Canice Nicholas with “You have to accept knocks in business. Professor Sir Peter Gregson, “I cannot say enough Understand that whatever has happened, President and Vice-Chancellor about my time at happened for a reason, and there’s always something better coming your way. It can be Queen’s - it was difficult to have self-confidence when you are starting out, but one small success leads to without doubt the another and everything builds on itself. If you are the secret of best of my life” giving your business 100%, then you must believe you can do it.”

As Ramona points out, being a success in business As a result of her appearance on ‘The Secret my success is not just about having a good idea. A proper Millionaire’ Ramona was invited to become a business strategy and a realisation, backed by dragon on ‘Dragons’ Den’ on RTÉ. Over the 10 research, that there is a gap in the market, are vital. episodes in Series 5, she invested almost €160,000 Integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic not just for budding entrepreneurs, but for young “Ideas can be very loose, but are used every day of her own money in projects as diverse as a trolley are some of the secrets behind the success of women and science graduates alike. in terms of innovation when it comes to running bags initiative, a feminine products company entrepreneur and television ‘Dragon’ Ramona a business, so it’s more about the core business trading as Ready Girls, and a magazine targeted at Nicholas. Talking exclusively to Gerry Power, “I would like to see myself as someone who is a concept than an idea at the start. A plan with students. editor of The Graduate, the 1998 BSc alumna, good leader – fair, approachable and motivational projections, cost analysis, and marketing ideas are who cites Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg and Net-a- – someone whose strong work ethic inspires my paramount before going to ask for funding.” That publication, Walton Magazine (named after Porter founder, Natalie Massenet among her role team members to push themselves to be the best Irish noble prize-winning scientist Ernest Walton), models, talks about self-belief, what motivates her they can.” And Ramona acknowledges that Queen’s also is targeted at those taking and teaching STEM as a boss, and what she sees as most important played an important part in her success. subjects – science, technology, engineering and for those considering a life in business. Ramona set up the Cara Pharmacy Group in 2002 maths. with husband Canice. The name combines the first “I cannot say enough about my time at Queen’s. “I knew from a very early age that It was without doubt the best of my life. Our class Ramona has long been an advocate of STEM and I wanted to become a pharmacist “I knew from a very early was small - fewer than 60 - so we all knew each believes this subject range holds out the best and have my own shop. It’s not other, and our lecturers, really well,” she said. employment prospects for today’s teenagers. about the money element - well age that I wanted to become Speaking at an Enterprise and Innovation Week obviously I always wanted to be “We had so much fun yet we also knew how event in Sligo in March, she outlined her belief that financially secure - but I knew I a pharmacist and have my serious our education was. Queen’s is recognised science, technology, engineering and maths were wanted to be my own boss, and as one of the world’s leading universities and the the most relevant subjects in the current economic help bring others on to be the best own shop. It’s not about the skills I learned there have stood to me throughout climate and encouraged those present not to be that they could be.” money...I knew I wanted to be my life. Plus the friends I made at Queen’s – who put off by what others say or think when deciding were part of my world during and after University – on a career path. The 2013 First Trust Bank Queen’s my own boss.” are now lifelong friends.” Graduate of the Year, Ramona “The future of Nicholas (nee Wylie) lives in Ramona suggests that you have to work every hour employment is in Bundoran in Co Donegal, but - to put your heart and soul into it - if you want technology and grew up in the Tyrone village of Ardboe. Now two letters of the couple’s forenames and is also your business to become a success. And while she science, and I suppose a familiar face on Irish television she is the only the Irish for ‘friend’. Together with son Alex, the says that women often find it harder to break into if I was being asked for female panellist on RTÉ’s ‘Dragons’ Den’ - and the couple live a short distance from the Cara central Queen’s the world of business, Ramona suggests instead advice, these would be research has youngest to date – and was the first Irish female warehouse in Ballyshannon from where Ramona that women need to ‘release the fear’ and do what the subjects I would entrepreneur on ‘The Secret Millionaire’ on RTÉ, and Canice run the chain which now employs over ‘spun out’ 50 they have always dreamt of doing. recommend. Digital companies, which also aired last year on Channel 4. As a highly 150 people. is going to play such successful business woman and co-owner (along creating “Running a business is certainly more difficult a part of the future 1,000+ jobs with husband Canice, also a Queen’s graduate) The group has enjoyed extensive expansion and for women, but I feel women should have more generation,” she said. of Cara Pharmacy, Ramona is a strong role model now comprises 15 businesses across six counties self-belief and confidence in themselves, and not 34 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 35

Susan Doris-Obando, LLB 1997 – “It was with “Once at Queen’s our hopes were to be realised great sadness that I learned of the death of on countless occasions – presentation of the my time at Seamus Heaney, an immeasurable talent, who Beowulf papers, unveiling his portrait, Festival, generously shared his time by speaking at the Charter Day Dinner, opening the McClay Library, QUAL Annual Dinner at Middle Temple Hall, the Centenary Stanza – and many more. But like London, in November 2002 (during the Presidency everyone else, it was not the meeting but the queen’s of Dr Olive Robinson). His presence was greatly getting to know Seamus and Marie as friends that appreciated and speech much enjoyed. The event touched our lives so profoundly. In this issue of My Time at Queen’s was packed to capacity.” graduates and former staff of the University “The world is the richer from Seamus’ words. Kevin Langley, PhD Physical Chemistry, 1970 – Those of us lucky enough to know him will never share their recollections of Seamus Heaney. “It was a privilege to be at Queen’s in 1967 and forget his charisma, his humour, his warmth and breathe the same air as Seamus. Once when I was his love for everything around him – his family, his Patrick Hicks, MA 1995 – “I met Seamus Heaney at a debate in the Students’ Union he sat down friends, his Ireland. We trust that a touch of that a few times while I was a student there and he left beside me and said “Hello Kevin how are you?”. humanity which poured from Seamus’ being will a deep imprint on my creative life. I know there I have no idea how he knew me. I was not even rub off on each of us.” are many, many, writers out there who feel the in the same faculty. Of course I knew who he was same way. I’m proud to say I went to the same because my friends who took English thought he Thank you to those who contributed to My Time institution that he did.” was a god.” at Queen’s. More recollections are available on our website and you can submit your own at Edward Cartin, BSc Economics, Chief Executive Elizabeth Doherty, (nee McNulty) BA 1963 – “I www.daro.qub.ac.uk/time Taking a particular interest in online retailing and Qubis Ltd, 1985-2004 – “Some of the imagery recall Seamus was President of the CSS, based in the role of social media in promoting modern day from Seamus Heaney’s early poems resonates with the QUB Catholic Chaplaincy, in 1959/60. Students *NB You will need to be logged onto the alumni business, Ramona’s expertise encompasses the fast me; similar background from a farm in Co Derry, were attracted by tea and biscuits for tuppence. website to fill in the form so if you have not moving consumer goods sector, luxury and high- then from the scarp of St Columb’s to the fine already registered at end retail, home and giftware, and many services lawns of Queen’s. including healthcare, skincare…and, of course, “I graduated in English in 1963. The English https://daro.qub.ac.uk/feedback department was small. My boyfriend (now pharmacy. She herself is also passionate about “When I met him in 1975 he seemed content to husband) was also a St. Columb’s past-pupil. marketing, consumer trends, event management, be known as a poet but still cautious. strategic planning, and much more. Seamus’s then girlfriend and I shared a flat. I remember him as charming, warm, articulate and “In ‘The Ministry of Fear’, a quite biographical hugely intelligent. And if she wasn’t in the FMCG sector where would poem, the quotation For Alma Mater, by Seamus Heaney she see herself? “In Dublin, Seamus was one of four speakers ‘Those hobnailed boots from beyond the His fresher’s face, his fresh-stamped student card, representing Queen’s Colleges in the former Irish “There are a number of businesses that I think I mountain House of Lords in 1995. We were privileged to The glue not set, the course not set: I stare. would love to get involved in. I am still very retail Were walking, by God, all over the fine have him, a Nobel Laureate, as guest of honour at Pro tanto quid? Yet what can he afford? driven and I think Cara Home has certainly brought Lawns of elocution’ a new element to the company. I’d like to think the 1996 QUAD dinner.” Under the Great Hall’s portraits, it’s still hard that I could turn my hand to a number of different refers, I believe to his coming up to Queen’s. For Heather Penden (nee Redmann), Class of At this stage not to wonder how he’ll fare, things - I enjoy coaching, and business coaching is me the image was hard to resist.” something I’d like to do on a one-to-one basis in 2001/2002, New Orleans – “When attending This fresher with his fresh-stamped student card. the future.” Queen’s in 2001, I was first introduced to Seamus Heaney’s work and consider him an inspiration. Then Great Hall turned exam hall where he entered. Although I am living now in Rhode Island, USA, I Passionate about advancing the cause of young First Arts. First Honours. Finals. For each year do hope one day to return to Belfast and study at women in business, Ramona is clearly an innovator Pro tanto quid? For now he can afford. and a champion of entrepreneurial spirit. At 35 his namesake Poetry Centre, even if just informally. she has already made a substantial contribution to the community and to business, not just as an “I am sympathetic for the University community’s “Re-enter,” said the interviewing board, employer and an investor in new business, but loss and I thank Queen’s for the introduction to Mr “Take up your notes and be a lecturer as a philanthropist and in a voluntary capacity at Heaney. Both his work and Queen’s hold a place And cancelled henceforth be your student card.” Queen’s. in my soul of deep thoughtfulness and spiritual reverence.” He re-enters. He exits. His reward A Sabine farm and freehold in Glanmore. Professor Sir Peter Gregson, President and Queen’s University Management School runs a Pro tanto quid? O all he can afford. number of courses and initiatives for those in Vice-Chancellor 2004-13 – “Rachael and I well business. Go to www.qub.ac.uk/mgt for more. recall, with awe and excitement, our move to Queen’s in 2004. Do you think we will meet Now course is set and face set by the word. What then? What’s this? Honoris causa? Doctor? Nominations for Graduate of the Year will open in Seamus Heaney? – just one of our many questions! March 2014. We welcome personal applications Like the rest of the world we admired him greatly Whose was that fresh face on your student card? or those made on behalf of other alumni you feel as a poet – the accessibility of his words and his Pro tanto quid? O all you can afford. have made a difference. lyrical metre. We knew of his close association with Queen’s, but we knew too that he now lived (Presented to the University on the occasion of in Dublin and was in hot demand by universities, the launch of the Campaign for Queen’s in 2001) publishers and audiences around the globe. 36 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 37 In association with:

In addition to his studies Mark Secondary School in Northern nominations made by pupils, has commenced as the assistant Ireland in the 2013 Pearson past and present, parents and CLASS NOTES minister at Kirkpatrick Memorial Teaching Awards. colleagues. She will join fellow Church in Belfast. winners at the UK final of the Dr McHugh has been involved Teaching Awards on 20th Thanks to everyone who took the time to contribute to our Class Notes section. Unfortunately we James McAteer, MSc Physics in the development of Slemish October, filmed in London and are limited by the space available so apologies if your entry has not been included. However, all class and Astro-Physics, 2000, PhD College since its inception broadcast by the BBC. notes are posted on our website: www.daro.qub.ac.uk/classnotes Astrophysics and Planetary and opening in 1996, and Science, 2004, who is an is a passionate advocate for 1970s assistant astronomy professor integrated education. so that the project has a lasting The Graduate Daniel said: ‘I am 2000s in the solar research group at Deirdre Mageean, BSSc benefit. so very grateful for my time at New Mexico State University, Las The Pearson Teaching Awards Social Studies 1975, has been Queen’s, for how it has formed Bregeen Campbell, BSc Cruces, New Mexico, has won were established by Lord appointed provost and senior Recently awarded a Higginson and shaped me as an academic Business Information a prestigious National Science Puttnam CBE in 1998 and are vice president for academic Leadership Award (worth and for the way it prepared Technology 2012, was part Foundation CAREER Award. managed by the Teaching affairs at Cleveland State £1,000) from Queen’s, Clare me to move both on to Oxford of a cohort on the prestigious He will receive $750,000 over Awards Trust, an independent University (CSU). The role, and her colleagues have a for my DPhil and now into an US-NI Mentorship programme the next five years to study how charity. The Trust’s mission which she took up at the start £10,000 fundraising target! To academic faculty position.’ which got together in New energy is stored and released on is to celebrate excellence in of July, will see her serve as find out more contact Clare York this year to attend the the sun. education. The Teaching Awards CSU’s chief academic officer ([email protected]) or Martin Reilly, BA Modern American Ireland Funds Young are sponsored by Pearson and chief operating officer. Brendan (bkettle01@qub. History, 2000, became Mayor Leaders event. The occasion He told The Graduate: “As both International. Professor Mageean was formerly ac.uk), visit www.facebook. of Derry in June 2013. An SDLP honoured actor Chris O’Dowd an undergraduate and PhD dean-in-residence at the com/TanzaniAID, or go to www. Waterside councillor since 2005, with the Irish Spirit Award and graduate at Queen’s, I have a Council of Graduate Schools gofundme.com/tanzaniaid to he is originally from Roslea, Co Peter Ryan, Deputy Irish Consul lot to thank the University for, in in Washington, DC and Vice make a donation. Fermanagh. Martin previously General to New York with the particular Professors Keenan and Chancellor at East Carolina sat on the board of the Patient Community Service Award. Mathioudakis for all their help University. Fiona Bennington, MEng and Client Council and the with my career, and in being Mechanical Engineering, 2011 board of directors of the Derry Bregeen, on placement with The awarded this grant.” Professor Mageean’s research is creative Design Engineer at Visitor and Convention Bureau. Coca Cola Company in Atlanta, has focused on historical Fast Engineering Ltd. In her role, was selected from more than 1990s patterns of migration, she has developed a product His term of office sees Mayor 160 applicants to participate in population-environment – FASTAP – which has been Reilly representing the citizens the programme, which is now John Rogers, Medicine 1997, interactions and the policy nominated for three awards. of Derry/Londonderry at the in its fourth year. Established in was part of the QUB Alumni Tom Christie, BSc (Chemical implications of demographic height of the UK City of Culture 2010 by the former economic team which won the Belfast Engineering) 1981, has change. FASTAP is the world’s first celebrations. envoy to Northern Ireland Marathon relay in May, repeating been named NEA Area 1 minute emergency water Declan Kelly (an honorary their win of 2011. The team was Implementation Director for John Copelton, MSc Pure and distribution system, enabling Aid graduate of Queen’s) it is composed of former Queen’s Europe, Middle East and Africa Applied Physics 1971, has Relief Agencies to deliver water supported by the American Athletics Club and Harriers (EMEA) and will be responsible retired from Queen’s but has to disaster affected communities Ireland Fund and Northern members: Joe McAllister for in-region requirements been busy creating an online more efficiently and hygienically. Ireland Science Park CONNECT (PCGE 2007), now a teacher gathering, communication, magazine for the active retired. The heart of the system is a programme. at St Malachy’s; John Rogers training, data readiness, Visit www.exploringretirement. new design of tap stand based (Medicine 1997), a Consultant user acceptance testing and co.uk for articles on staying on a tripod concept which is in Sport and Exercise Medicine implementation. Within the mentally and physically active assembled and factory tested and team doctor to the Great global NEA team, Christie and helpful tips and advice. before despatch. Britain Endurance squad, Paul continues to have accountability Pollock (Medicine 2010), a for the Order to Cash and 1960s The device won the Irish Times doctor in Belfast City Hospital, Supply Chain Planning teams, Innovation Award in March Noel Pollock (Medicine 2002), a and Sadara integration. Christie Dr Geraldine Carville OBE; (coincidentally on World Consultant in Sport and Exercise relocated to Horgen, Switzerland MA 1969, is an eminent Water Day) and picked up a Medicine and team doctor early in 2013. historical geographer and a Community Excellence Award for the Great Britain Athletics Justice of the Peace. She was from Antrim Council in June Clare Scullion, MSc (Physics) team, Andrew Dunwoody Aoibhinn O’Kane, (nee awarded an OBE in the 2013 2013. It was also nominated for 2012, and Brendan Kettle, MSc (Environmental Biology 1999; Mulhern) BEd 1980, from St New Year’s Honours List for Index Design Award, said to be Mark McMaw, BSc (Applied Maths and Physics) Environmental Engineering Patrick’s College in Maghera international achievement in the biggest and most important Environmental Planning, 2011 are part of a group of 2000) a Senior Environmental (where she has worked for her field of academic research design award in the world. 2000 returned to Queen’s in physics PhD students from Engineer, Arup in London. 33 years) has won The Award and commitment to community 2009 to study theology. He Queen’s who will be travelling for Teacher of the Year in a service. The Honour was Daniel Ostendorff, MA Modern graduated with a Master of to a school in Moshi, Tanzania to 1980s Secondary School in Northern awarded at an investiture in History 2009 has recently Divinity (MDiv) in 2011 and is install solar panels to help power Ireland in the 2013 Pearson March 2013 at Buckingham taken up the post of Assistant presently completing ministerial the school library. The group Paul McHugh, BSc 1984, of Teaching Awards. Palace. Professor of History & Political training for the Presbyterian will spend time with teachers in Slemish College in Ballymena Science at LeTourneau University Church in Ireland at Union St Amadeus Secondary school has won The Award for Aoibhinn was shortlisted from a After graduating from Queen’s in Longview, Texas. Speaking to Theological College, Belfast. and donate educational material Headteacher of the Year in a record number of over 24,000 with a BSc (Hons) Geraldine 38 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 39 In association with:

chose teaching as a profession. and community life beyond the Dr Muhammad Akram Khattak, Laboratories which have Harry replied, ‘Yes, Professor, Whitla Professor, Dean of She took up a post in St university. This is where HOST PhD Inorganic Chemistry 1965, subsequently become the possibly because you’re boring!’ Medicine, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Michael’s Grammar School and steps in – linking students with spent most of his career in the Centre for Vision and Vascular Needless to say the honours and Acting-Vice-Chancellor at was later appointed as a vice- volunteer hosts who offer one- Pakistan Council of Scientific Science. degree Harry sought was not Queen’s. principal. She continued with off invitations. and Industrial Research (PCSIR), forthcoming!” part-time studies obtaining a BA retiring as Chief Scientific Mike Gordon, BSc (Electrical Most of Professor Shanks’ and an MA. “We have been hosts for about Officer in 1995 with more than Engineering) 1958, MSc Marshall Eakin, MB BCh BAO professional and scientific work eight years now and really 70 research papers and patents (Electronics) 1961 described his 1956, entered Queen’s in was spent on the discovery and Since 1970, Dr Carville has enjoy it. We have met lots of published in National and return to the University this year October 1949 and was president description of beta blocking published 14 books and over 20 interesting young people from International Scientific Journals. for the Golden Reunion as ‘an of the Students’ Union in 1956, drugs which earned him an research journal articles, and has all over the world, including Sri extraordinary experience!’ the year of his graduation. international reputation. His given lectures and broadcasts Lanka, Singapore and Taiwan, In recognition of his services research was primarily carried throughout Europe and the USA. many of whom are still in touch and scientific achievements “Firstly, I met again with David Dr Eakin was a GP for 25 out at Queen’s, where the In 1989, Pope John Paul XXIII with us. We learn as much from he was awarded the ‘Tamghai 0’Dowd, known at University in years, following which he was Department of Therapeutics and awarded her the Bene Merenti them about their countries as Imtiaz’ (Medal of Excellence/ the fifties as ‘Diarmid’, but now Medical Advisor at the Central Pharmacology was recognised Medal and Diploma for her work they do from us. HOST is a great Honour) – a national Presidential resident just up the road from Services Agency in Adelaide worldwide for its research on on Irish Monasticism. In 2011, way of extending knowledge Award – in 1992, for averting a me in Sydney, in Brisbane. David Street, Belfast. In 1990 he was beta blocking drugs. the University of Wales, Swansea and understanding of different major catastrophe by diffusion was followed by James Dick who the medical advisor for GPs at awarded Dr Carville a Senior cultures and making friends.” of incidentally formed explosive attended Ballymena Academy the Northern Health and Social Robin was the first person to Doctor of Letters in recognition material in Adamjee Chemical with me. And, out of the blue, Services Board based at County administer beta blocking drugs of her research and literature. HOST UK promotes friendship Works at Nowshera – one of the up popped Dr Denis Hopkins, Hall, Ballymena; he retired in to man, was the co-discoverer and understanding by arranging cities of Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa also from Ballymena, a friend 1998. of propranolol - the most widely She is currently working on for international students to province of Pakistan. of my brother Harry, who also used beta blocking drug for another book, for the centenary spend a day, a weekend or graduated from Queen’s in the An honorary life member of the the last 50 years, and the first of The Knights of Saint Christmas (normally three nights) Currently working as a Visiting late fifties. British Medical Association his person to discover the selective Columbanus. in a UK home. Every invitation Professor at Abasyn University, outside interests include angling beta blocking drugs which are is a one-off, there is no ongoing Dr Khattak told The Graduate he “Denis’ father was our family for trout and salmon, golfing, now the basis of treatment of commitment to the student suspects he was the first student doctor in Ballymena. A and gardening, in that order. many diseases. unless that is something which at Queen’s from the Khyber wonderful man with all the both parties want. Pass! empathetic attributes sought Marshall was widowed in He has received five degrees in the modern doctor, with January of this year after 53 from Queen’s including an Since it was set up over 75,000 1950s the possible exception of his years marriage, when his wife honorary Doctor of Laws and students have enjoyed ‘local’ UK chain-smoking! My brother Mavis who was a Royal Victoria was elected a member of the hospitality, and many describe Desmond Archer, MB BCh had attracted a little adverse Hospital SRN (1957) died. Royal Irish Academy - a rare their HOST visit as one of the BAO 1959, Emeritus Professor attention when in response to honour for a Doctor of Medicine. most valuable experiences they of Ophthalmology at Queen’s, an accusation from the Professor Robert (Robin) Gray Shanks, He was also honoured by Her had while studying here. was presented with the of Economics, Professor Isles - BSc Physiology 1955, MB BCh Majesty the Queen when she ‘Lifetime achievement award whose origins were in the Apple BAO 1958, MD 1963, DSc conferred on him the CBE in More invitations are always for outstanding contribution to Isle of Tasmania (same surface 1969, LLD 1999, has had an recognition of his work on beta needed, whether in Northern Ophthalmology’ by Moorefield area as Ireland but one tenth exceptional career in the world blockers. Ireland or anywhere in the UK. Alumni Association in January of the population!) to the effect of medicine having held the Derek Cottney, BSc Mechanical If you would like to give this a 2012. This is only the second ‘Gordon - you’re sleeping!’ posts of Lecturer, Professor, Engineering 1968, is currently try, please see www.hostuk.org Lifetime Achievement Award employed by Bombardier and is or contact Betty Flanagan - the presented by the worldwide living in East Belfast. Voluntary Regional Organiser for Moorefield Alumni. HOST in Northern Ireland Betty Calling all Young Scientists! Kathleen Webb, BSc Flanagan - [email protected]. Professor Archer was the (Pharmacy) 1967, is actively inaugural Sir Charles Blackmore The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition will involved with HOST, a national Chair in Ophthalmology at celebrate its 50th birthday in January 2014. In preparation charity which links international Queen’s, holding the position for the celebration, BT is calling on all past entrants, visitors, students at universities in the UK from 1972-2001. teachers, judges, partners and supporters to connect with the with British residents who invite exhibition again and send their Happy Birthday messages and students to their homes. His clinical and research teams memories via a virtual birthday card, Facebook and Twitter. at the University Department Queen’s has recently joined of Ophthalmology pioneered The birthday card is accompanied by a new digital archive HOST and Kathleen is keen the use of radiational created by BT, which displays unique material and iconic to ask alumni if they might therapy for age-related moments of the last 49 years of the exhibition. In addition, volunteer as hosts. macular degeneration (AMD) the archive also includes indexed exhibition guides, forming complicated by abnormal a searchable database of students that competed in the “However much they enjoy their subretinal vessels. He initiated programme. studies in the UK, international Kathleen Webb and An Chi a highly regarded training students often feel the loss of Chen from Taiwan, a PhD programme and developed The archive is available at www.btyoungscientist.com/archive and BT is calling on Queen’s alumni to share meaningful contact with family student at Leeds University. the University’s Eye Research their memories by going to www.facebook.com/btyste, or use #btyste50 on Twitter to send birthday wishes. 40 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 41

It is with sadness that we bring you obituaries and appreciations of some of New Books OBITuaries those graduates who are no longer with us.

For, by and about Queen’s Graduates Dr Ralph Maurice Hampstead Malone, MB, BCh, Ivan Connor, died on 29 October 2012 BAO, died on 13 May 2012 Former President and Secretary of the Queen’s Irvine Grey, Collector of Names, will appear daily issues we face, bringing Obstetrician and Gynaecologist University Association, London Bachelor of with Schaffner Press in early together modern thinking as well Theology 2015. as ancient philosophies. Born in 1924 and raised in St. Kitts, British West Arnold (Ivan) Connor, born in New Jersey, USA 2008, Master Indies, Ralph Malone received his BSc from Sir on 13 July 1931, was raised in Belfast where the of Philosophy Nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Deirdre Cartmill, George Williams College, Montreal and later family returned just before WWII. He obtained a 2012 has Patrick was recently a finalist for BEng Electrical graduated in Medicine from Queen’s University BSc (Econ) from Queen’s in 1958 before a career written Two the High Plains Book Award, the Engineering Belfast. He returned to Barbados to practice in local government, including Director of Social by Two – the Dzanc Short Story Collection 1989, MA Obstetrics and Gynaecology and married in Services in the London Borough of Barking, Shape of a Competition, and the Gival Press Creative Writing Toronto in 1969. The couple moved to Canada beckoned. On retirement he moved with wife Shapeless Novel Award. His work with 2002 will be with their two young daughters in 1974, then Dorothy to Westgate-on-Sea, Kent. Movement, PBS’s “Over South Dakota” was publishing her relocated to Niagara-on-the-Lake in 1999. which has emerged as a result nominated for an Emmy. He has second collection Ivan was a stalwart Council Member of the Queen’s of academic research into won the Glimmer Train Fiction of poetry The Return of the Ralph was an advocate for the Family Planning University Association, London for 50 years and a religious movement that Award and is the recipient of Buffalo this autumn. Association, working with the organization for deeply committed to Queen’s. He was Honorary had its beginnings in 1897 in a number of grants, including many years. He enjoyed flying light aircraft and Secretary for over 20 years, became President in Nenagh, County Tipperary. Irvine individual artist awards from the Deirdre spent a year affiliated instructing student pilots in his spare time and the late 1990s, and later served with distinction as undertook detailed investigation Bush Foundation and the South with the Seamus Heaney Centre will be fondly remembered for his compassionate Vice President. and research into a movement Dakota Arts Council. for Poetry. She has received a attitude, kindness, sense of humour, love of that refuses to take a name, number of Literature Awards travelling, painting, photography, fishing and Dr Robin Harland OBE, died on 17 November examining and analysing its He is currently Writer-in- from the Arts Council, has patron supporter of The Arts and heritage 2012 history, sociology and theology Residence at Augustana College been shortlisted for a Hennessy museums. He is survived by his wife (Dr. Elizabeth Senior Medical Officer at Queen’s University, and the claims that they are the in Sioux Falls, South Dakota as Literary Award and was a finalist Oliver-Malone), children (Ann Louise and Sharon), 1970 – 1991 and Honorary Graduate sole guardians of the gospel and well as a faculty member at Sierra in the Scottish International their partners, and his four grandchildren. that their preachers are in direct Nevada College. Visit www. Open Poetry Competition. Robert Wallace (Robin) Harland was a huge figure succession from the apostles patrickhicks.org for more details. Charles (Charlie) Gibson Lowry, MB, BCh, BAO in Queen’s student medicine and sport for over ordained by Jesus Christ. Deirdre’s poems have appeared died on 1 June 2012 20 years. Born in1926, he studied medicine at Pete Hamill, in The Blackbird’s Nest (Blackstaff Outstanding family doctor Queen’s and graduated in 1948. The book is available from BSc Physics and Press), and have been widely www.irvinegrey.com Astrophysics, 1998 published in magazines and Charlie Lowry was born in Limavady and, Following periods in Durham and then the Royal is a consultant, journals including Metre, Poetry graduated from Queen’s in 1944. At University he Maternity Hospital Belfast (where he met his future Patrick Hicks, facilitator and Ireland, and The Sunday Tribune. was active in rugby (where he captained the ‘A’ wife May) and military service as RMO to the Royal MA (Irish coach with an She has also written for film, team) and tennis, earning his colours (Half Blue) Tank Regiment in Germany he returned to Queen’s Writing) international television and radio. in the latter. After qualifying he spent 18 months as Senior Medical Officer in 1970. 1995, is now background in at Templemore Avenue Children’s Hospital with a a professional leadership and Roisin McCrink, view to specialising in paediatrics but decided on At Queen’s Robin established an injuries clinic writer in the organisational BA English and general practice. for the University sports clubs and was so closely United States. development. He Philosophy, linked to sport that he was subsequently elected His first novel The is author of the book, Embodied 2012 is In 1950 he married Patricia (Paddy) Agnew President of the Rugby Club and as a Life Member Commandant Leadership: the Somatic currently and together they had three children Rob, Jan of the Gaelic Football Club. He was selected of Lubizec is to Approach to Developing Your studying for and Mark. He took a great interest in the local as Medical Officer to the Northern Ireland be published Leadership. an MA in Arts community being a committee member of the Commonwealth Games Council and attended five by Steerforth/Random House in Management Bellaghy Development Association and a keen successive games between 1978 and 1994. His March 2014. The book sets out to show how at Queen’s. member of the Bellaghy Historical Society. It was contribution to sports medicine was recognised by many of our current popular Having through his persistence that Bellaghy Bawn was the award of an OBE in 2009. The novel is set in the death perceptions about leadership launched her preserved by the Historic Monuments Department camps at Auschwitz, Treblinka, don’t necessarily help. What we first book, The of the DOE. Retiring in 1991 Robin retained links with Queen’s Belzec, and Sobibor. now know from neuroscience, Fight for Silence in April 2012, serving on Senate between 1992 and 2001. He biology, philosophy and years Roisin published her second Charlie was an example of a life well lived, an received an honorary doctorate from Queen’s Aside from having his first novel of research, shows how working book in November 2012, Moon- outstanding family doctor who put his patients in 2002. He is survived by his four sons Wallace, accepted for publication Patrick through and with the physical Angel: Ink, Old Parchment and first, thoughtful, kind and possessed a wonderful Paddy, David and Simon. has also had his sixth poetry body can develop leadership Pink Blossom, which is the first in dry sense of humour. He enjoyed the love and collection, Adoptable, picked up potential further. It is a practical a new trilogy. support of his wife of 61 years and his children. (A full obituary by Michael Cullen can be found at for publication by Salmon Poetry and progressive take on www.fsem.co.uk/) (Ireland) in late 2014 and his first leadership that is highly relevant (Obituary by Brian Lowry, cousin). collection of short stories, The to how we work today and the 42 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 43

Richard James Mowbray Elliott, died on 8 grammar school in Newry he graduated from here to celebrate today might be described, December 2012 Queen’s where he studied music, psychology, ‘brazen’ is hardly a word that comes to mind. Pioneering broadcaster and community activist literature and anthropology, in 1969. Anything that smacks of ostentation would be quite inappropriate. As would anything that Mowbray (‘Mo’) was born in Kilkenny in 1919. Gerard Murphy made several films, including smacks of meanness of spirit. A word that might The family moved to Bangor, Co. Down, where Waterworld (1995) and Batman Begins (2005), and come to mind is ‘bounteous’. And, while I’m in the his friendship with the girl next door turned into appeared in many television productions, notably realm of the B’s, maybe even ‘bouncy’. romance. They married in 1948, and were together in Vanity Fair (1998) and in the BBC’s Spooks. for 62 years. But it as a stage performer that he will be best This last may seem a bit strange, but I have a remembered with the Glasgow Citizens Theatre distinct memory of playing football with Seamus, Mowbray read Electrical Engineering at Queen’s and the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Michael and Christopher somewhere in or around and on graduating he lectured at the University Royal Exchange in Manchester. Glanmore. When I say ‘football’, I need to be clear, in communications before joining the BBC as an particularly when this might well have been back engineer where he remained until 1979 when he Opening the new Barbican theatre as Prince Hal in in an era when soccer was perceived as a foreign reached mandatory retirement age. Henry V, Parts I and 2 in 1982, he appeared in the game. Let’s put it like this. This was not a game first RSC season at the Swan Theatre, Stratford- in which Seamus’s talent for heading the ball was Mowbray then started to play important roles upon-Avon, four years later. He played alongside Eulogy for ever called on. It was Gaelic football, and I have in many voluntary organisations, serving the many notables of the British theatre including to tell you that I speak as someone who’s been community both locally in East Belfast and Dame Judi Dench, Glenda Jackson, Joss Ackland Seamus Heaney shoulder-charged by Seamus Heaney. He bounced nationally. He is survived by his seven children – and Sir Patrick Stewart. He is survived by his sister me off like snow off a plough. He rebuffed me. sons Michael, Christopher, Tony, Paul, Timothy Deirdre and his brother Brian. Benignly, though, ‘benign’ is another word that and Simon, and daughter Gillian – and 11 When I arrived yesterday morning at Belfast comes to mind. grandchildren. Additional and longer versions of obituaries can International Airport I offered the border official be found on the alumni website – www.daro.qub. my US Passport. He asked me about what I did in Actually, ‘benign’ is somewhat inadequate. ‘Big- (A full obituary by Michael Elliott can be viewed on ac.uk/news – by following the links to obituaries. the US. I was a teacher. I taught poetry. He looked hearted’ is coming closer. On the subject of the the alumni website) If you would like to submit an obituary for online at me and said, “You must be devastated this heart, when Seamus was fitted with a monitored publication please contact the [email protected]. morning, then.” electronic device a few years ago he took an William George Henry Quigley, died on 3 March almost unseemly delight in announcing ‘Blessed 2013 Among other graduates and former staff who are Something about the frankness of this response, are the pacemakers’. Seamus’s big-hearted Civil Servant, Director and Honorary Graduate no longer with us are the following: its unvarnished aspect, reminded me of a phone celebrity attracted other celebrities, of course. call I made to the Heaney household one night Movers and shakers always attract movers and Sir George Quigley graduated with a first-class years ago. Maybe 30 years, now. The phone was shakers. Was it a young Michael (or a young honours degree (BA History, 1951) and a PhD in dr Edith Newman Devlin MBE, Honorary answered by one of the boys. Michael, I’m pretty Christopher, perhaps?), who was introduced to a history in 1955. After a distinguished career in the Graduate, died on 2 July 2012 sure. He was a teenager at the time. Having known couple of dinner guests and inquired of each of civil service he became Chairman of Ulster Bank, him since he was a kid I was glad to have a chance them in turn, “What is it you’re famous for?” To (a subsidiary of Nat West, later Royal Bank of dr Maeve Binchy, Honorary Graduate, died to have a chat and hear what he was up to. After return to Seamus’s capacity to act con brio, I don’t Scotland), served for 10 years as a non-executive on 30 July 2012 a while, Michael ventured, “I suppose you’ll want think I’ve ever seen another human being, with the director on the main board of Nat West and retired to speak to head-the-ball?” Not being a parent possible exception of Usain Bolt, move with such in 2002 as Chairman of the Royal Bank of Scotland mr Raymond Skilling, Graduate and at the time, I was a little taken aback by the speed and accuracy as did Seamus when he heard Pension Fund. Founder Member of the Foundation Board, familiarity, perhaps even the over-familiarity, of this the then toddler Catherine-Ann cry out in distress died on 10 October 2012 nomenclature. Even if Michael didn’t call Seamus after falling in the yard. He positively sprinted, His roles in public life in Northern Ireland included “head-the-ball” to his face (which I’m pretty sure swept her up in his arms, brought her to a safe chairmanship of the NI Economic Council and The dr Lim Keng Yaik, Graduate and Honorary he didn’t), I realise now that it was a very telling place. Royal Group of Hospitals. He was president of Graduate, died on 22 December 2012 moment. It was a moment that suggested a the Economic and Social Research Institute and wonderfully relaxed attitude between father and It was Seamus Heaney’s unparalleled capacity of the International Trade Institute of Ireland. Sir George Oswald (Ossie) McKee, Former teenage son, one I now see as highly difficult to to sweep all of us up in his arms that we’re George served as a director of Short Brothers (now president of West Coast USA graduate establish and maintain. honoring today. Though Seamus helped all of us Bombardier Aerospace), joining the company in association, died on 13 January 2013 develop our imaginative powers we may still only 1989 and becoming chairman in 1999. The Seamus Heaney who was renowned the imperfectly imagine what Marie is going through. dr Margaret Irish (nee Morrow) MB, BCh, world over was never a man who took himself She above all recognises that other great attribute He received honorary degrees from Queen’s (LLD baO 1961, died on 19 February 2013 too seriously, certainly not with his family and of Seamus Heaney. I’m thinking of his beauty. 1996), the University of Ulster and The Open friends. That was all of us, of course. He had, Today we mourn with Marie and the children, University and in 2007 he was elected a member of Sir Philip Foreman, Member of Senate 1993- after all, an unparalleled ability to make each as well as the extended families, the nation, the the Royal Irish Academy. Sir George is survived by 2001, and Honorary Graduate, died on 23 of us feel connected not only to him but to one wide world. We remember the beauty of Seamus his wife, Lady Moyra. February 2013 another. We’ve all spent many years thinking Heaney – as a bard and, today, in his being. about his poetry. We’ll all spend many more years Eamon Gerard Murphy, actor, died on 26 jean Cochrane, QWG member, died on 25 thinking about it. It’s the person rather than the Reproduced with the kind permission of Seamus August 2013 march 2013 poet I’m focusing on today. The person who did Heaney’s friend and fellow poet, Paul Muldoon. Star of Batman Begins and Spooks everything con brio, ‘with vigour’. This was, after Paul is also a Queen’s graduate and former Raymond Flannery, Graduate and Honorary all, the Seamus Heaney who repurposed Yeats’s Oxford Professor of Poetry. He paid this tribute at Born in Newry on 14 October 1948, Gerard Graduate, died on 2 May 2013 description of a bronze chariot in his poem Who the Nobel Prize winner’s funeral in Dublin. Murphy had an illustrious career on stage and in Goes With Fergus? and referred to his BMW as a film. Educated at the Abbey Christian Brothers’ ‘brazen car’. However the Seamus Heaney we’re 44 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 45

Des Clarke, in memory of his wife Angela Professor James Dunwoody, deceased, - The To Cancer Research and Engineering Dunwoody Scholarships writing To support students of Engineering, Mathematics or Physical Science. future stories

As a psychology graduate Catherine Lynas, deceased, in memory of her (Queen’s of course!), son, Dr John Ford Lynas I am interested in To support students of Biochemistry understanding human behaviour, and how, in my role as Legacy Officer, I can better comprehend the psychology of legacy giving. Why are some Professor Sir Peter Gregson, President and individuals inspired to Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s with support charities in their Des Clarke at the Heritage Professor Dunwoody (right) will, while others don’t? Is Motor Centre, Warwickshire it that the subject matter is sensitive or is it a lack During his lifetime, I was very fortunate to get of awareness of charitable When Des Clarke, a graduate in Mechanical to know Professor Dunwoody who graduated in legacy gifts? Engineering (BSc 1968), lost his wife to cancer 1957 with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering. He in 2012, he decided to leave a gift to support explained to me his motivation for setting up the Recent research published in Non-profit the work of world-renowned researchers in the Scholarships: and Voluntary Sector Quarterly shows that University’s Centre for Cancer Research and Cell when individuals are asked questions like Biology (CCRCB) working with colleagues in “Initially, I wanted to inspire pupils from my old those above, neuroimaging results suggest Engineering. school to think about a career in Engineering, that bequest contemplation (as contrasted Mathematics or Physical Science. In addition, with current giving) engages ‘visualised Des visited Queen’s for the Golden Reunion in Queen’s played a very large part in my professional autobiography’ regions. June from his home in Australia, and told me: and personal life. As the beneficiary of a “I hope there is an opportunity for the CCRCB Scholarship myself, I understood first-hand the Once prompted, people start to think about and my old faculty to combine their research benefits of helping gifted students who may the way they might be remembered. They ask and innovation skills to develop a simple and not have the resources to support a University themselves - which charity should I support? effective pain management system to alleviate the education, so I wanted to give something back. How best can I help them? What impact might Dr John F Lynas discomfort associated with cancer.” my gift make? And today’s difficult economic climate will In addition, Angela’s name and Des’s act of giving obviously affect the decisions of eligible students I’d like to share three graduate legacy gift will live on in the future. And what’s more, his gift considering going to Queen’s, so I hope that those stories, and to outline how their ‘visualised John Lynas graduated in Biochemistry in 1991 will allow many families living with cancer to live who can, will give a little to help support such autobiography’ led them to give a legacy that and went on to lecture briefly in Biomedical on. individuals”. created a memory which wrote their future Chemistry before his story. untimely death aged just 32. Des, Catherine and James all visualised the like much but often is of huge impact to small Catherine wanted John to be future and planned how they’d like to see the charities) can make a huge impact to a charity and remembered and the family final chapters in their own autobiographies to be much of the difficult contemplation is avoided. name to live on in perpetuity, written. Then they made it happen. And of course, it’s always good to seek the advice and set up a percentage gift of a legal professional, just to keep things right. Susan Wilson in her will to support students For others though, perhaps the gap between Legacy Officer studying Biochemistry. Tel: 028 9097 3162 thinking of charitable legacy giving (or visualised If you could ensure your name, or that of a loved last year legacy autobiography) and actioning those thoughts is one, could live on, would you choose to do so? E: [email protected] Undergraduate students gifts totalling much too wide to contemplate. Or maybe it seems Have you any thoughts on how you would want to beginning their studies next £300,000 supported like a minefield of further questions - how to word be remembered? year will benefit from the gift. research, facilities a gift, how much to give or who to give to? and student For further information on leaving a legacy to hardship My experience tells me that it’s best to keep things Queen’s, contact Susan Wilson on simple. After loved ones have been remembered, +44 (0) 28 9097 3162. a percentage gift (a few percent might not seem 46 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 47

In partnership with local business, local authorities, the University and the GAA, Queen’s is combining sports’ report all four competitions in a Festival of University GAA, attracting top colleges from the island of Ireland and a number from Great Britain. Historic Cup Win Men’s and women’s crews from all over Ireland The Festival will also include a programme of competed for the top honours. Queen’s Men’s events celebrating sport at the University, student Senior eight triumphed over University College achievement, the GAA and Belfast as a host city. Cork in the main 2,000m event winning by 1¼ lengths. Queen’s Ladies lost out to Trinity College To bolster GAA Academy fundraising in what will Dublin by 2½ lengths in their 2,000m final. be an extraordinary year a Telethon Campaign is Women’s Rugby is going from strength to strength planned in late October 2013. This year’s Boat Race was a first for the ‘Lunch with the team now unbeaten for over two years in on the Lagan’ fine dining experience at a new Ulster. The list of achievements includes All Ireland Corporate Enclosure supplied by the impressive On the crest of a League Division 2 Champions, Rosie Stewart ‘Green Room’ at Ramada Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge, and Ulster Cup Champions, CUSAI Intervarsity 7s inspired by the Henley Royal Regatta. Champions and the Abbey Insurance Ulster ladies wave! 10s competition. Ten players were also selected for Ulster and Irish Squads. Queen’s crews performed well at this year’s National Rowing Championships in August with In its 19th year, Queen’s Ladies GAA Club finally two gold medals in the Men’s Novice Coxed 4s Ladies’ Hockey delivered on the huge promise of recent years and the Women’s Novice 8s and a narrow defeat in with an emphatic victory over perennial O’Connor the Senior 8 race. winners Dublin City University (DCU) at Waterford impresses IT in March. Ladies’ Hockey have cemented their position in the top tier of Ulster Hockey emerging into one of Queen’s made it into the final after a dramatic semi the top young sides in Ireland. The First XI placed against reigning champions University College Guests enjoy the sunshine at the fifth in the Ulster Premier League, reached the Cork where a last minute goal by Caitlin Malone Ramada Plaza Boat Race semi-final of the Ulster Shield and were narrowly and a period of extra time saw them eventually defeated by UCD in the final of the Intervarsity winning by one point. Chilean Cup. The Club continue to supply national squads with two players selected for the Irish In the final, televised live on TG4, Queen’s met Intervarsity Squad and four for the Ulster U21s. DCU who were appearing in their fourth final in Keeping score five years. The Belfast side romped home 4-10 Queen’s Hockey has never been healthier. Junior to 1-9 enabling a joyous team captain Sinead Queen’s Sport secured support from the squads continue to impress with the Second XI McCleary to lift the O’Connor cup for the first time University’s Annual Fund towards the cost of an winning Junior League two and the Third XI the To enable Queen’s to compete at the very in the Club’ s history. electronic scoreboard catering for high-profile Junior League earning promotion for the fifth year highest levels of rowing in Ireland and UK rugby, GAA and soccer fixtures at Upper Malone. in a row winning the Minor Cup in the process. The Ladies GAA Club has worked diligently requires substantial annual investment for towards this milestone over the past two years. The scoreboard was installed just prior to the fleet refurbishment and the purchase of boats. Coaching structures, awareness within schools and World Police and Fire Games in early August, with In addition to the commitment made by the team preparation have all been enhanced through many of the main events taking place at Queen’s. University, Queen’s Rowing Alumni continue the Sean O’Neill GAA Academy. It is fully digital and can display scores across all to support the Head Coach and recently of the three main codes along with sponsor and contributed over £5,000 towards refurbishing Thanks also to the Managing and Coaching staff venue notifications. Club 8s and Singles and a further £3,500 to cover of James Daly, Barry Flynn, Aidan Lennon and Leo accommodation costs for the 2013 National Duffy and to sponsors McAleer & Teague, Queen’s Rowing squad. Annual Fund, Centra (Stranmillis), Pizza Hut Delivery (Ormeau Rd) for additional support. GAA 2014 Festival 10,000+ school Rugby on form children use The University’s GAA Clubs have secured the Queen’s Sport right to host the Ashbourne, Sigerson, Fitzgibbon Boat Race 2013 It has been another successful year for the Queen’s facilities each and O’Connor Cups - an ambitious and unique year initiative never before undertaken by any university Men’s and Women’s Rugby teams. The men had In the largest ever Boat Race, 20 crews took to the in the same academic year. 10 players linked with Ulster Under 19s and 20s River Lagan in June for the Ramada Plaza Belfast and 4 with the Ulster Ravens, while Iain Henderson University Boat Race 2013. The event proved a The marquee events for camogie, football, hurling was involved with both the senior Ulster and Irish major success with spectators and competitors and ladies football respectively will be staged at squad. The First XV maintained their status in a For more information on donating to Queen’s alike enjoying an exciting day and making the Queen’s over five weeks in February/March 2014. very competitive Ulster Bank All Ireland League sport contact Natasha Sharma on +44 (0) 28 9097 most of the early summer sunshine. Division 2A and were victorious in the CUSAI 3928 or e-mail [email protected]. Catch Intervarsity 7s competition. up on sport at www.qub.ac.uk/sport 48 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 49

Special Advisor to President William J. Clinton on Camp Bastion reunion Ireland, Senator Mitchell was joined by friends and Coming back, family members for the occasion which was jointly Four Queen’s graduates over 2,300 hosted by the Consul General and by Sir David held a unique medical alumni Fell, Pro-Chancellor of Queen’s and Chair of the reunion in February in attended University’s Senate. Camp Bastion, the main catching up! events in British military base in 2012-2013 Afghanistan. Alumni events and reunions are very special times for graduates, giving thousands each year the chance to come back to campus The medics are all part and reconnect with old friends, to learn something new, catch up of 204 (NI) Field Hospital on the latest news from Queen’s, or simply to have a bit of fun with former acquaintances. (V), a unit currently Each event is an opportunity to continue your connections with your alma mater after you running what is reputed to be one of the busiest graduate; each reunion is a unique occasion to meet up with old friends and to see how the and best trauma units in campus has changed. the world. And whether you are a recent alumni wishing to attend a careers event, public lecture or are Using social media returning from overseas for a significant class reunion, your University always looks forward to welcoming you back! RM Jones Lecture QFT was the venue for over 40 students and recent graduates in April to hear the latest tips The first of this year’s two RM Jones Lectures took on using social media from industry experts – and place last November at the University’s Riddel Queen’s graduates - Phil Watson (LinkedIn) and EVENT highlights Hall campus. His Excellency Kamalesh Sharma, Tracy Dempsey (Soul Ambition). The facilitator Chancellor of Queen’s was the keynote speaker for the evening was another graduate, Dawn in a panel discussion which focused on the Baird of Sensei, who has worked extensively with Ladies Hockey 50-year reunion Library - appropriate as three of the group are internationalisation of Northern Ireland’s economy. small businesses and individuals to help them retired Librarians - finishing with dinner at the communicate better online. Hippodrome Restaurant in the Grand Opera House The lectures are funded by a bequest received by followed by ‘The Mouse Trap’. the University in 1972 from the estate of Dr Robert Among key tips shared on the night were: don’t Miller Jones, former Principal of Royal Belfast cut and paste your CV onto an online platform like The next day saw a visit to the Titanic Exhibition and Academical Institution (Inst), a graduate, Honorary LinkedIn; always use a professional profile photo an afternoon hop-on/hop-off bus tour of Belfast, Graduate and Senator of Queen’s. and get recommended by people you’ve helped. rounding off two days of fun and enjoyment. Live tweets from the event were shared by staff The following day, William Crawley again member Helen Dixon. chaired proceedings when an audience primarily Success in the city composed of pupils from local schools were Then present to hear from the University’s Chancellor New York Business Observation Almost 40 current law undergraduates enjoyed and to discuss matters with a panel of students. a unique opportunity to hear from a number of Programme successful Queen’s Law alumni based in London Queen’s and Belfast on how to get ahead in the legal world. Speed mentoring The US Consul General in Belfast hosted a pre- Ladies Hockey departure reception in May at Danesfort for seven First XI of The expert panel, chaired by Dr David Capper Ten Queen’s alumni and 30 current humanities Queen’s undergrads travelling to the US over the 1962/63 held from the School of Law included Michael Doran students attended the inaugural ‘Speed mentoring’ summer. a 50-year (partner in White & Case, London), Therese event held in the Great Hall in February. reunion last Now McCarthy (Corporate Solicitor at CMS Cameron The students were the first group to undertake October. McKenna, London), Paul Tweed (Belfast-based Alumni from a variety of fields, including a two-week placement with leading financial Starting with Media and Dispute Resolution lawyer, Johnsons) journalism, marketing and supply chain firms in New York as part of the University’s City a champagne and Declan McKeever (Vice President and management, each shared valuable experience Scholarship Business Observation Programme, reception then lunch, memorabilia was shared Associate General Counsel in JP Morgan, London). and insight with students from across a range of aimed at giving those interested in pursuing a and the years fell away to reveal a strong sense of subject disciplines. career in global finance a unique insight into the camaraderie. After the panel discussion both students and running of multi-national Wall Street firms. alumni participated in a lively Q&A session which Generously supported by the Queen’s Graduates’ The First XI won the Inter-varsity Chilean Cup and was then followed by a networking opportunity. Association - the evening was a huge success with Engineers gather were runners-up in the Ulster Shield. On the team both mentors and ‘mentees’, proving that there were several former Ulster Schoolgirls, a number was an appetite for events that connect current Civil, Aeronautical, Mechanical and Electrical who would go on to serve on Ulster and British George Mitchell unveiled and past generations of alumni in a structured, Engineering alumni who graduated between 1962 teams and two internationals. speedy – and fun – format. A portrait of Senator George J Mitchell, Chancellor and 1964 took part in a Golden Reunion dinner in of Queen’s from 1999 to 2009, unveiled at an the Great Hall at Queen’s in June. After a visit to Cherryvale Playing Fields the The next Speed Mentoring evening is being event at the official residence of the British Consul group was shown around the Queen’s Sports planned for February 2014. Complex at Upper Malone. A tour of the McClay General, Mr Danny Lopez last October. The former 50 The Graduate 2013 The Graduate 2013 51

While a number travelled from New Zealand, those attending the event – part of The Gathering ALUMNI BENEFITS Australia and Canada the majority of attendees 2013 - were 30 medics from the Class of 1963 and were from Northern Ireland, though several also 60 former residents celebrating the centenary of We meet many graduates each year. One thing we often hear is ‘I never knew you did that!’ So made the journey from Scotland and England. Riddel Hall - the erstwhile residence exclusively we dedicate this page to highlight the special advantages available to alumni. for female students, recently reopened as the University’s hub for business. University benefits

• Free support is offered by the University’s Career and Employability Services Team • Access the wealth of printed resources in The McClay Library with discounted graduate membership • Keep informed of all the latest course information and consider further study to enhance your CV • The Lanyon Building could be a wonderful backdrop to celebrate your big occasion. Graduates and those close to the University have the exclusive right to marry here! A guided tour of the main campus included the impressive McClay Library where guests viewed • Get discounts on PEC membership and on further study the CS Lewis Room, almost 50 years after the writer’s death in 1963. Also on the itinerary were After lunch, graduates from as far away as visits to the David Keir and Ashby Buildings. Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA, Ghana, Connections Invitations Germany and Switzerland were given a keynote The following day, a large contingent took the ‘state of the university’ address by Vice-Chancellor, • There are over 140,000 Queen’s alumni. We can • Reunion support is available for anyone train to Derry/Londonderry, the UK City of Culture, Professor Sir Peter Gregson. help you access the power of that network wondering about planning their own special where they walked the new Peace Bridge to the • We can also help you reconnect with old friends reunion event. Guildhall, climbed up onto the historic walls and A highly entertaining Literific debate rounded off a • Join a graduate association locally or • The Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s ventured to St Columb’s Cathedral and the First sparkling afternoon when the house was asked to internationally, benefit from a network of celebrates its 51st year in 2013 we offer special Presbyterian Church. consider the motion ‘The future ain’t what it used connections and a range of social activities discounts for alumni. to be’. On Sunday, almost 40 graduates enjoyed (Report submitted by Professor Adrian Long) a ‘Belfast bap’ for breakfast followed by a tour of Titanic Belfast, while on Monday a guided tour was on offer highlighting the key changes to the main Showing you care Golden reunion 2013 - a Queen’s campus over the last 50 years. sparkling success! • We welcome your help to ensure that Queen’s continues to deliver an exceptional student experience and offers crucial solutions to world problems through its pioneering research Over 150 graduates from the classes of 1957-67 For information on organising Events and • Financial gifts can be made to the Queen’s Annual Fund, to a major campaign project or by leaving a gathered at Riddel Hall in June for the main get- Reunions contact Adele Ward (email: legacy to Queen’s (pp 44-45) together of this year’s Golden Reunion. Among [email protected] or tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 5289) • Volunteering is a valuable way to support Queen’s. Advocacy, career mentoring, providing feedback, organising events, supporting student recruitment or committee leadership are just some of the ways you can give back (pp 23-27) Forthcoming Events the Astrophysics Research Centre in the School of Maths and Physics at Queen’s, will address guests Communications social media All forthcoming events are listed at www.daro.qub. on the topic ‘The origin of life in the centre of stars’. ac.uk/events Here are three examples. • All alumni receive this annual magazine, The • Online social networks are a relatively new Graduate, which delivers the latest news about addition to the communications mix but you will Stephen Smartt’s research interests focus on ‘The origin of life’ - Convocation Lecture the University and the alumni network and find Queen’s alumni groups on supernovae and the deaths of massive stars and highlights the latest alumni opportunities for the last decade he has been searching for the Queen’s LinkedIn groups offer professional progenitors core-collapse supernovae in images • The alumni website offers you the chance to support to over 20,000 pre-registered graduate of galaxies taken before explosion. He has held manage your own personal information online users positions at the Institute of Astronomy at the • We send a regular eGraduate electronic University of Cambridge and the Isaac Newton newsletter to provide additional information Facebook provides social interaction via the Group of Telescopes on La Palma. throughout the year to all those who have recently launched Queen’s University Belfast supplied us with a contactable email address Alumni Office page The Lecture will be followed by the Annual • You can also share your news and views, and not Meeting of Convocation, full details of which can only through the social networks. Personal Twitter gives bite sized updates and be found at - daro.qub.ac.uk/convocation - or from updates can be published in the magazines announcements. Queen’s has a dedicated the Clerk of Convocation ([email protected]). or online in the Class Notes, My time at Queen’s, alumni twitter feed #QUBAlumni and an obituaries and news sections additional institutional feed #QueensUBelfast Charter Day Dinner in the Great Hall 22 November 2013. • You can now access a host of Queen’s videos The 2013 Convocation Lecture will take place online by visiting www.qub.ac.uk/qtv on Thursday 21 November 2013 at 7pm in the Canada Room/Council Chamber. This year’s An exhibition opens in the Naughton Gallery, 27 February 2014 showcasing the work of Architect speaker is Professor Stephen Smartt, Director of Visit www.daro.qub.ac.uk/benefits for more information or call +44 (0) 28 9097 3100 and Queen’s Alumnus Peter Rice. LEAVE A LEGACY

At Queen’s we are leading the fight against vision-related diseases, helping many people retain sight that otherwise would be lost. Philanthropic gifts such as legacies allow us to invest more in developing new ways to treat and prevent vision loss

Professor Usha Chakravarthy Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences

If you would like to speak to someone about leaving a gift Help support the pursuit of in your will, please contact Susan Wilson, Legacy Officer world-class education and life

Development and Alumni Relations Office, Queen’s University, changing research. T: +44 (0) 28 9097 3162 E: [email protected]

www.queensfoundation.com Registered Charity Number: XR22432

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