How we're fighting back in the time of COVID-19 - INSIDE YOUR 2021 EDITION: Introducing The Yoko Ono Lennon Centre Alumni Award winners 2020 Dr ...
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HOPE How we’re fighting back in the time of COVID-19 INSIDE YOUR 2021 EDITION: Introducing The Yoko Ono Lennon Centre Alumni Award winners 2020 Dr Amir Khan
ALUMNI
CONTENTS
04 News
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dame
Janet Beer introduces a round-up
W
elcome to the latest 10 18 of campus news
edition of your annual Joining the fight Introducing the Yoko 14 Paul Curtis
Alumni magazine, The University of Ono Lennon Centre The Liverpudlian artist who has
bringing you the latest news from the Liverpool’s response to The new building is named in made a name for himself with
University and your alumni community. the COVID-19 pandemic recognition of the artist's long- his public murals
2020 was an extraordinary year standing philanthropic support
for us all. We reflect on how the
16 Award winners
Celebrating University of Liverpool
University has led on ground-breaking
alumni and their worldwide impact
research to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and share our plans
to support future growth in the Liverpool City Region. 26 Wellbeing
In this issue, we bring you an interview with GP and TV Student mental health and wellbeing
personality Dr Amir Khan; leading entrepreneur and women’s remains at the forefront of our minds
champion Emma Watkinson shares her success in online
27 Legacies
fashion retail; and there is an update on the exciting plans
How legacies play a vital role
for the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre. We also share a new range in funding our University
of initiatives that will keep our global alumni community
connected online. 28 Class notes
You can read Class Notes from your fellow graduates 08 Find out what your classmates
around the world on page 28, with more featured online The Good have been up to since graduation
at: liverpool.ac.uk/alumni/class-notes. Doctor 32 In memoriam
We would love to hear your feedback on the magazine 24 Full-time GP, TV Including alumni, University
and any ideas for future stories, so please contact us at À La Mode personality and of Liverpool staff and Honorary
alumni@liverpool.ac.uk. You can stay up to date with the How alumna bestselling author: Graduates
Emma Watkinson how does Dr Amir
latest news and events by visiting our web pages and
is revolutionising Khan do it all? 34 Stay connected
following our social media accounts @LivUniAlumni.
fashion Network and continue your
Thank you from all of us in the Development and Alumni
development with our online
Relations team for your continued support.
resources
Caroline Mitchell
Head of Alumni Engagement
P.S. Remember to update your contact details and email
preferences at: alumni.liv.ac.uk/contact/update-details/
or email us via: alumni@liverpool.ac.uk.
Our cover
Artist Paul Curtis created the original artwork,
entitled Strength, Hope and Recovery, for this year’s
cover. The image depicts a nurse kneeling in front
of Paul’s famous Wings mural, acknowledging the
LIVERPOOL CONNECT 22 heroic efforts of NHS staff during the pandemic.
The future is digital Discover more about the University’s response to
Join our exclusive online networking and mentoring platform Discover how the University’s COVID-19 on page 10, and read our interview with
to connect with University of Liverpool students and alumni investment in digital is enabling Paul on page 14. The artwork will be auctioned
OWN THE
around the world. a smarter, fairer and more in Spring 2022 with proceeds going to Alder Hey CANVAS
connected future for our city
Hospital. Find out more here: liverpool.ac.uk/
JOIN NOW: liverpool.aluminate.net
alumni-magazine/news/paul-curtis
DESIGN BY WHITE LIGHT MEDIA
2 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 3
NEWS ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/news
University Professor
GREEN MILE
to Chair CHM
PINKIE PIE The University’s Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed
THE LIMEY (MBChB 1985, PhD 1993) has been appointed by
the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care
CLOCKWORK OR... as Chair of the Commission on Human Medicines
(CHM), which provides independent expert
BLUE VELVET advice to ministers on the safety, quality and
LICENCE TO TEAL efficacy of medicines.
TO TEAL A MOCKINGBIRD
Royal congratulations
for the Class of 2020
His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales joined
students, University staff, alumni and other famous
A message from our the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre,
in recognition of Yoko’s long-
faces to honour the achievements of the Class of
2020 during this year’s online graduation ceremonies.
Vice-Chancellor standing support of the University
and the Liverpool City Region.
WELCOME TO YOUR ALUMNI MAGAZINE
Although we haven’t had the
T
opportunity to be on campus very
o say the last twelve 2020, responded from all corners often to see the construction take
months have been of the globe with donations of shape, work has continued on site
challenging would be support to fund vital research, and I look forward to welcoming
a huge understatement. We have support our students and you to the centre next year.
all had to deal with the devastation provide PPE for our frontline And although we haven’t
this global pandemic has caused workers. These donations been able to deliver our events
in our homes, communities and totalled more than £450,000. programme on campus this year,
societies, but positive things have Thanks to all of you. I am delighted that so many of
also come out of the crisis. Our ability to continue with you have joined our virtual events
As Vice-Chancellor I have our research throughout the audience. We will continue to
been very proud of our students, pandemic was vital and it will deliver many events online as
staff and alumni family for the continue to be so in the coming it has provided a fantastic way
many ways in which they have months and years ahead as our for us to connect with our global
responded to the situation – from society recovers. You can read family. You can read more about
our final year medical students about our response in depth our events and wider digital offer
and nurses who supported on page 10. on page 34.
frontline staff throughout the You will have read in the last To all of our alumni, volunteers,
pandemic, to our researchers issue of Alumni about the donors and supporters – thank Specialist Maths School welcomes
who worked tirelessly in
laboratories trying to understand
campus developments, including
the £22.1m teaching and
you again for your continued
support of your University.
first cohort of students
this devastating disease. Then performance centre. We were The University of Liverpool Maths School – the first school of its kind for 16-19 year olds in the North of
there are our alumni who, when delighted to announce last year Professor Dame Janet Beer DBE England – welcomed its first cohort of students to study an innovative and challenging A level curriculum,
we launched our appeal in March that this will now be known as Vice-Chancellor in an environment where talented young mathematicians can thrive and excel.
4 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 5
NEWS ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/news
Partnership reaches Celebrating 100 years
new milestone of Oceanography at the
This year, the long-standing University of Liverpool
partnership between the
University and Santander Universities UK which The UK’s oldest department of ocean sciences
was established in 2012 and has afforded students marked its 100th anniversary with a series of events
transformational education, employability and including the Inaugural Lecture of the new Professor
enterprise opportunities, will mark its £1m of Oceanography, Claire Mahaffey (PhD 2003).
funding milestone.
New online programme
launched University researchers
Following the announcement last year of the new
build intelligent mobile
partnership with Kaplan Open Learning, students robot scientist
have now begun their studies in a range of online
postgraduate taught Researchers from the University’s Department of
programmes. Among Chemistry and Materials Innovation Factory have
the subjects on offer built a robot scientist that can work 24-7, carrying
are an MSc in Artificial out experiments by itself. The robot scientist, the
Intelligence and MSc in first of its kind, can also make its own decisions
Healthcare Leadership. about which chemistry experiments to perform.
University’s Music
department launches
world’s only Beatles MA University partners with
The new MA in The Beatles: Music Industry and
Cowrie Scholarship
Heritage, which launches in September 2021, Foundation (CSF)
will examine the cultural and creative legacy
of The Beatles. The partnership will fund at least three disadvantaged
Management Black British students in the 2021/22 academic year,
School (ULMS) with the CSF covering maintenance and living costs
and the University covering tuition fees.
New Family Wellbeing awarded AMBA
Centre in Bangalore accreditation
The University is undertaking a study, in The award from the internationally
partnership with the National Institute for regarded Association of MBAs saw
Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) ULMS join a group of globally elite
into Children’s Mental Health and Development management schools carrying the
in Bangalore, India. The study will be conducted triple crown accreditation of EQUIS,
at the new purpose-built Family Wellbeing AACSB and AMBA.
Centre, with an air-conditioning unit funded
by the Eleanor Rathbone Charitable Trust.
6 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 7
DR AMIR KHAN ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/alumni/meet-our-alumni
Following graduation, Dr Amir cut his teeth as a
Every single day, we receive calls from
junior doctor at hospitals across Merseyside, before
people who are struggling; they can’t get hold qualifying as a GP in 2009. In 2018, he was named
of social services, so they ring us, as we’re ‘GP Trainer of the Year’ by the Royal College of
always there to pick up the phone and take General Practitioners for his efforts in coaching
the next generation of GPs since 2011.
care of them
It’s all about access
As an Ambassador for the National Wildlife Trust
It was this tender bedside manner, coupled with his and the Butterfly Conservation Society, Dr Amir is
charming affability, that endeared Dr Amir to the a passionate advocate of the recuperative power of
viewing public when series six of popular fly-on-the- nature. But what these roles are really about, he says,
wall documentary show GPs: Behind Closed Doors hit is democratising access to green spaces.
UK screens in 2018. Since then, Dr Amir has published “Studies show that people without regular access
his Sunday Times bestselling memoir, The Doctor to nature have higher rates of type two diabetes,
Will See You Now, and become a regular, reassuring cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers.
presence on Lorraine and Good Morning Britain. It’s deeply unfair that people from socially deprived
But long before he became a mainstay on breakfast backgrounds, similar to where I grew up, don’t enjoy
television, Dr Amir made his start in the world of care that access. Many of my patients work long hours on
working in a Youth Disabled Unit, aged just 16. low incomes; after the school run and putting food
“Getting to know the patients, I learnt that they on the table, you can understand why the last thing
M
had all lived such full lives; they didn’t want to be on their minds is to take their children to the woods
FULL-TIME GP, TV PERSONALITY y overwhelming feeling was relief.” defined by their ailments. I felt very lucky to talk to – particularly if it takes two buses to get there.”
Speaking to Alumni in the week them, but to help them too. That was the moment This kind of marginalisation, compounded by
AND BESTSELLING AUTHOR: HOW that the first COVID-19 vaccine was that I thought medicine could be the career for me.” funding cuts to social care, means Dr Amir’s practice
DOES DR AMIR KHAN DO IT ALL? administered in the UK, Liverpool Following some “gentle coercion” from his mother frequently deals with patient issues that aren’t
alumnus Dr Amir Khan (MBChB 2004) describes (AKA Mama Khan), Dr Amir elected to study strictly medical.
THE
how the vaccine rollout will be lifesaving – in more medicine at the University of Liverpool: “I had the “Every single day, we receive calls from people
ways than one – for patients at his practice in best time in Liverpool, and made friends for life. who are struggling; they can’t get hold of social
inner-city Bradford. I applied not knowing for sure that medicine was services, so they ring us, as we’re always there
for me but, it turns out, Mama Khan was right; mums to pick up the phone and take care of them. Every
GOOD DOCTOR
tend to be right most of the time! single day.”
“I enjoyed my degree immensely; the Clinical In light of these intense pressures – and with
Skills sessions were the best part for me, as it was another book and several TV projects in the works
so hands-on. I was also the fifth year Class Rep so – will Dr Amir be hanging up his stethoscope any
I was lucky enough to organise the graduation ball time soon?
and our yearbook. “Whatever other projects I’m working on, I’m a GP
“COVID-19 has been devastating for the large South “Being part of the Liverpool Medical Student first and foremost – I’ve no plans of stopping. I can’t
Asian community in West Yorkshire. I’m familiar with Society was amazing too; my housemate was the imagine doing anything else.” ●
consoling bereft families and people with long-term social secretary for two years, which helped! I have
conditions, but not at the frequency I’ve sadly had to great memories of The Raz and nights in the Guild; Dr Amir’s book The Doctor Will See You Now: The
recently. So when the vaccine was announced, I was Double Vision on a Monday and Time Tunnel on a highs and lows of my life as an NHS GP reached #9
on the Sunday Times Bestsellers List.
really, really relieved for my patients.” Saturday. Great memories.”
8 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 9
COVID RESPONSE ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/coronavirus
JOINING information on who was getting sick from COVID-19
to guide government policy.”
● The Centre for Genomic Research at the
University is part of a genome sequencing
THE FIGHT
consortium led by Professor Alistair Darby
Caring and curing alongside Professor Steve Paterson and
Currently, as part of these national studies, significant Professor Julian Hiscox, in which scientists
research is being undertaken at the University: are monitoring changes in the virus nationally
to understand its spread, helping PHE make
● Professor Calum Semple OBE is leading the policy decisions.
ISARIC-4C study – the largest of its kind in the
THE UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL RESPONDS TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC world – alongside Dr Kenneth Baillie at the A community effort
University of Edinburgh and Professor Peter In terms of the University’s wider involvement in the
Openshaw from Imperial College London, city-wide response to the pandemic, academics are
A
gathering data from more than 82,000 continuing their efforts to find solutions to the adverse
t the start of 2020, few amongst us could response to the virus. Now, one year on, the COVID-19 patients to provide real-time effects the pandemic has had on public health, our
have predicted what the next twelve University is again at the centre of the response information about the virus. economy and society.
months would bring. As the pandemic to build a better future for the Liverpool City Region. Professor Louise Kenny (MBChB Hons 1993),
took hold, many of our remarkable ● The AGILE clinical trial platform, capable of Executive-Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of
clinicians and final-year medical students volunteered A sleeping giant testing multiple potential treatments in parallel, Health and Life Sciences and vice-chair of Liverpool
to help fight COVID-19 on the front line. Staff and In actuality, the University’s efforts against COVID-19 is being led by Professor Saye Khoo, Honorary Health Partners, launched Liverpool STOP COVID, a
students got to grips with online teaching and started well before the pandemic began. Since 2014, Consultant Physician in Infectious Diseases at the city-wide initiative aimed at easing the burden of the
learning, while our world-renowned researchers the University has hosted the National Institute for Royal Liverpool University Hospital. The research pandemic locally, nationally and globally. The project
focused on helping to deliver a coordinated Health Research (NIHR), Health Protection Research will help to rapidly identify the most effective also aims to coordinate COVID-19 research across the
Unit (HPRU) in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, in Liverpool City Region and has played a pivotal role in
the breakthrough of clinical trials into the
vaccine (see page 12).
partnership with the University of Oxford,
Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) drugs and, in Professor
and Public Health England (PHE). Previously, the Khoo’s words, “allow us to
HPRU was heavily involved in fighting Ebola. restart society quicker.”
In January 2020, the Unit diverted its efforts into
supporting the activation of ISARIC (the International ● Professor Sally Sheard (BA Hons
Severe Acute Respiratory and emerging infection Geography 1986, PhD 1994) and Dr Nina
Consortium): a ‘sleeping giant’ of a programme Gobat are examining the effect of real-time
which is ready for just such emergencies. Within UK policy decisions on frontline healthcare
days, all 260 acute hospitals in the UK were ready workers and gaining unique insights into
for the first COVID-19 patients. policy formation through collaboration with
The HPRU and Centre for Excellence in Infectious members from the Strategic Advisory Group
Diseases Research (CEIDR) teamed up with local for Emergencies (SAGE).
NHS Trusts and the City Council to coordinate the
regional response. ● CCP CANCER-UK, led by Professor Carlo
Professor Tom Solomon, Chair of Neurological Palmieri and Dr Lance Turtle in collaboration Academics are continuing their efforts
Science and Director of the HPRU, describes the with ISARIC-4C, is assessing the impact of to find solutions to the adverse effects the
mammoth nature of the effort: “This has been a COVID-19 on people living with cancer - both pandemic has had on public health, our
huge task, led from Liverpool but involving hospital the increased risk of complications and the
staff all around the country. It provided key effect of disrupted diagnoses and treatment.
economy and society
10 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 11
COVID RESPONSE ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/coronavirus
As for social care, Dr Clarissa Geibel from the Life after COVID-19 As part of the University’s commitment
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences is leading Since the beginning of the pandemic,
to the climate emergency, Professor
a study into the effects of social services closures The Heseltine Institute for Public
caused by the pandemic, and the impact this is having Policy, Practice and Place, in Anthony Hollander is leading the drive
on the lives of older people, unpaid carers, and those collaboration with the Liverpool to forge an environmentally-conscious
living with dementia. Additionally, the Department of City Region Combined Authority, recovery from COVID-19
Psychology is studying the effects of the COVID-19 has published a series of COVID-19
PHOTOGRAPH: © CHRISTOPHER FURLONG / GETTY IMAGES
pandemic on mental health and wellbeing as part of Policy Briefs. Drawing on expertise
a wider Household study that is being led by Professor within the University and across the
Neil French (PhD Tropical Medicine 2004). Campaign within a week, prioritising vital research, City Region, the series complements and adds value Executive Group, is leading the way towards an
Meanwhile, the Department of Music teamed up student support, and securing PPE. The COVID-19 to the work of civic leaders and policy makers as eco-conscious recovery from COVID-19. The N8
with local magazine Bido Lito! to conduct research Emergency Response Campaign has raised more they respond to the profound challenges arising Research Partnership brings together eight
into the effects of the pandemic on the music industry than £250,000 to date and helped fund life-saving from the pandemic. Its objective is to disseminate universities in the North, along with the Northern
in the Liverpool City Region, sadly concluding there research into the virus. In addition, the Student knowledge, best practices and translational Powerhouse Partnership, to submit a representation
has been a ‘catastrophic impact’. Crisis Support Fund, launched in May, has raised research expertise to mitigate the present health to the 2020 Comprehensive Spending Review.
The campus safety plan was launched at the £200,000 and provided vital support for more crisis and its aftershocks, and to Build Back Better Digitally, the University is responding to the
beginning of this academic year, aiming to slow the than 200 students in financial hardship during the to create a more resilient Liverpool City Region. demands from technology and the post-COVID-19
virus’ spread by ensuring staff and students have a pandemic. It’s estimated that this fundraising total In addition, the Faculty of Science and Engineering’s recovery as outlined in our feature on page 22.
thorough understanding of current guidelines. The of close to half a million pounds has helped leverage Civic Engagement Report, published in November Last summer, as well as the launch of Professor
University also set up a COVID-19 testing centre on an additional £17m in research funding. 2020, outlined how a range of programmes and Tom Solomon’s Scouse Science podcast, the
campus as part of its Campus Shield initiative. PPE for frontline workers has been donated from partnerships will boost regional skills and innovation University launched its Liverpool Responds series
all over the world, with over 211,000 items gathered – and in the longer term, contribute to the recovery, to discuss the city’s post-COVID response, bringing
Raising funds from supporters including Liverpool’s Chinese engage communities and influence public policy. together speakers from across the University and
As we entered the first national lockdown in March community, the Nigerian Alumni Network and firms Professor Anthony Hollander, Pro-Vice-Chancellor from partner organisations such as Liverpool City
last year, the University launched a fundraising including Taylor Wessing LLP. for Research and Impact and chair of the N8 Strategic Council, local football clubs and places of worship. ●
ALL
AS RESOLUTION NEARS, Pharmacology 1989, MBChB ▹ ONGOING STUDIES at the ▹ AT A RECENT Liverpool
LIVERPOOL AND OUR 1991, MD 2001), has recently Centre for Genomic Research Responds event, expert speakers
set out its preliminary findings are analysing new variants of including Director of CEIDR,
UNIVERSITY ARE
IN
to help policymakers. COVID-19, caused by a mutation Professor William Hope, and
PLAYING A PIVOTAL in the spike protein, to help Professors Alistair Darby, Calum
ROLE IN THE FIGHTBACK ▹ PROFESSOR SIR Munir ensure the efficacy of current Semple, Saye Khoo and Sally
AGAINST COVID-19 Pirmohamed, Chair of the and future vaccines. Sheard detailed how Liverpool
TO
CHM, (see page 5) was among is continuing to “punch above its
the panel of expert scientists ▹ DURING THE current vaccination weight” in response to the
who announced the first roll-out, our medical students are pandemic. “We shouldn’t be
▹ NOVEMBER 2020: Liverpool COVID-19 vaccine – the again volunteering on the frontline, afraid of changing the world,”
became the centre of an ambitious Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine – administering vaccines to people said Professor Saye Khoo,
WIN
national pilot to test asymptomatic that was approved for use in across the City. Liverpool’s in conclusion.
people, aiming to reduce or contain the UK by the Medicines and Director of Public Health, Matthew
transmission of the virus. An interim Healthcare products Regulatory Ashton (MPublic Health 2006),
report to evaluate the pilot, led Agency (MHRA) at a Downing recently thanked students for the
by Professor Iain Buchan (BSc Hons Street briefing in December. crucial role they are playing.
12 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 13
PAUL CURTIS ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/alumni/meet-our-alumni
I faced a lot of rejection and was
getting really frustrated. Eventually,
OFF
I just thought, ‘I’ve got to do something
for myself ’
THE
F Above: Paul’s mural A Right Pair of Moody Cows is part of
Wirral Council’s regeneration of New Ferry. Below: Paul with Paul also found time to create a special design for
film director Danny Boyle.
our graduating Class of 2020.
PUMPKIN UP “Transitioning to an entirely new career was tough,”
says Paul, “but it was when I decided to commit to it
WALL
fully that things started to happen for me. I’ll always
remember the first time I told someone I was an artist.
That was a big moment. I don’t think there’s a person
in the world that doesn’t suffer from imposter
syndrome – I do even now!”
F The Hendo mural, which celebrates
Liverpool Football Club's title wins
in 2020 and 1990. Keep out there
For those facing career uncertainty or looking
to embark on something new, Paul offers some
KNOWN FOR HIS EYE-CATCHING bonds on those trips, which really helped with the people could be part of. That’s where the Liver Bird words of wisdom. “There were plenty of times when
group coursework.” Wings came from.” I felt I was never going to get out of that rut. You
MURALS, PAUL CURTIS IS A
After completing his master’s in Aberdeen, Paul Everything changed for Paul when he painted the have to be realistic and accept that you’re starting
LIVERPUDLIAN ARTIST WHO had a successful career as a geologist in the oil wings mural. Suddenly the requests for work started again – try to focus on long-term goals. Some days
HAS CREATED OVER 150 PUBLIC industry for 15 years, but found himself facing to roll in, and he was gaining recognition from higher you might feel you’re never going to get anywhere,
PIECES IN JUST THREE YEARS redundancy in 2014. “I tried for a long time to get places. The wings became the 19th most geotagged but you’ve got to just keep out there.”
back into oil,” he says. “I faced a lot of rejection and location in the UK in 2018, attracting celebrities Paul’s is a story that reminds us that anything
was getting really frustrated by the politics of the including Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. Since then, is possible, that hard work pays off, and that a time
I
industry. Eventually, I just thought, ‘I’ve got to do Paul’s creations have included the Red Rum mural of upheaval can turn out to be the best thing that
f you had asked me five years ago what I’d something for myself.’” in Southport, a 40-metre wide depiction of coud have happened. “It has been an incredible
be doing now, there’s no chance on Earth It was during this hiatus that Paul’s sister asked Liverpool’s landmarks, and a piece that appeared journey. I never know what I might be working on
I’d have guessed it would be this!” him to paint his niece’s bedroom. He took his time, in Danny Boyle’s Beatles-inspired film Yesterday. next – and that’s the most exciting part for me.”
Despite a lifelong interest in art, by the creating a Bambi-inspired woodland scene. “That Paul added: “I recently won Merseyside Artist
age of 15, alumnus Paul Curtis (BSc Hons Geology was my first attempt at a mural – it was a massive of the Year 2020 at the Liverpool City Region
& Physical Geography 2000) had already settled learning curve,” says Paul. “People told me I have Culture and Creativity Awards. The award means
on an ambition of working in the oil industry – which a talent and encouraged me to pursue painting. so much to me – it’s my first formal recognition
he now reckons was subconsciously influenced by I had no idea how to be self-employed, let alone as an artist. It’s amazing to think that four years
watching Dallas with his mum. If at school he had how to be a mural artist!” ago I didn’t think it was possible for me to be a
raised the idea of wanting to become an artist, Paul professional artist. Thanks to everyone that has
F The For All
says the careers advisor would have taken a sharp Spreading his wings Liverpool’s Liver
backed me over the years and all who nominated
intake of breath. After a tough first year, Paul knew he needed to Birds mural was a me – it’s a win for all of us!” ●
Paul decided to live at home during his studies. get his name out there, to create something that tipping point for
Paul’s career Read about Paul's cover design on page 3 and more
“I really enjoyed the course,” he recalls, “particularly would act as a catalyst. “I had the idea to do a
on his artwork at: www.paulcurtisartwork.com
the field work trips we took – we all formed quick piece of street art – something memorable, that
14 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 15
AWARDS ℹ MORE INFO AND 2021 NOMINATIONS: liverpool.ac.uk/alumni/awards
Holly Geography, as well as serving as Warden Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), Award winner Faith Osiobe, the success
Fitzgerald of Salisbury Hall. She also served as Sheng is an advocate for sustainable of the Association is down to a team
(BA Hons Marketing the only woman on the University of development in China. His projects effort, and our winners are receiving
2017) Liverpool Senate. have benefitted thousands of people their awards in recognition of great
One of the Management and he has co-ordinated work with team work.
School’s most active volunteers, Holly is Layla Wright the University’s Geography &
being recognised for her dedication to (BA Hons Politics with Planning Department.
the University. As Marketing Manager Law 2018)
at Helen Pritchard Online, she has Since her graduation, Zoe Moore-
delivered guest lectures to marketing Layla has established Martin
students and helped to develop the herself as one of the country’s leading (LLB Hons 2015)
experiences of current students. young journalists. Her BBC Radio 4 Zoe is a newly qualified
investigation into knife crime, Paid solicitor and in-house Bridget Griffin
Jane Wong to Stab, was shortlisted in the Best legal counsel at the Pinnacle Group. (BA Hons Geography 2018)
(MBA 2010) Journalism category at the 2020 She completed her training contract at Dr Paul Hayward
Jane is an active BBC Radio & Music Awards. DWF, which included a secondment to (MBChB 1977)
member of the Hong the Amazon legal team. In 2019, she Bridget and Paul are both Directors
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2020 Kong Graduate Dr Nicola was named Merseyside Junior Lawyers of Liverpool-based social enterprise
ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS. YOU CAN Association. She is the founder of the Beesley Division’s ‘Star Trainee Solicitor of the Park Palace Ponies, an inner-city
READ THEIR STORIES BELOW Ave Maria Garden Foundation, a charity (BVSc Veterinary Year’. She is being recognised for her riding school. The organisation gives
that promotes social responsibility Science 2009, MSc volunteering work with the Law School. local children access to riding facilities
through flower arranging. Veterinary Parasitology that they wouldn’t normally have.
2009, PhD 2016) Since the project started in 2017,
Dr Jean Quinn Nicola volunteers as the Communications more than 2000 Liverpool children
(MBChB 1970) Officer for the University of Liverpool have benefitted with most of these
Alice Stevens Caroline Wong Jean graduated from Veterinary Alumni Association, a role children living in the local Dingle area.
(BA Hons Combined (LLB Hons 2014) the School of Medicine which has seen her connect and work
Honours 2014) Caroline is one of the fifty years ago. She with thousands of alumni across the NAMED
BELOW
Alice is a solicitor University’s biggest served as a GP for 25 years, becoming world. Her award is in recognition of CLOCKWISE
a Fellow of the Royal College of GPs, her dedication to the Association and FROM TOP
at Broudie Jackson advocates in Hong LEFT
Canter specialising in Civil Liberties Kong. She was an enthusiastic student before returning to teach at the School. the veterinary community as a whole.
and working with bereaved families. ambassador and has continued to be After retirement, she became a
Alice is being recognised for her a dedicated alumna working with the Councillor and Cabinet Member on Sarah Nigerian Alumni
involvement with Liverpool Law School. Hong Kong Graduate Association and Wirral Borough Council, served as a Hammond Association Oliver Press
at student recruitment fairs. Non-Executive Director on the Board (LLB Hons 1992) Joy Duncan (LLB Hons 2013)
Bill Heckle at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, The Deputy Chief (MBA 2010) David Williams
(BA Hons Economics David Barlow and is now Deputy Chair of Trustees at Crown Prosecutor Lola Olaide-Stephen (BA Hons Business Studies 2012)
& Economic MBE Wirral Hospice St Johns. for the West Midlands, Sarah leads (MSc Supply Chain Management 2012) As co-founders of Independent
History 1977) (MBA 1999) over 150 staff in the country’s biggest Okeoghene Ekere Liverpool, David and Oliver have placed
Bill is one of the David is in his fifth Joan Magistrates Court Unit. As regional (MBA 2012) themselves at the centre of Liverpool’s
most important figures in Liverpool’s year as Chair of the Kenworthy lead on violence against women and Queen Elizabeth Okwum cultural and business scenes. They are
tourism industry as owner of the Electrical Standards and Governance Though she is not girls, she is a strong advocate and (MSc Global Human Resources champions of local independent business
famous Cavern Club. He also created Group which oversees Electrical a graduate of the supporter of victims and witnesses. Management 2013) and in 2017 opened the Baltic Market,
the Mathew Street Festival, the Apprenticeships in England. He has University, Joan is Uruemu Esiri Oghen Liverpool’s first street food market. ●
concept for the Hard Days Night also been appointed Chair of the being recognised as an honorary alumna Sheng Ying (MSc Global Human Resources
Hotel and commissioned the Beatles Building Services and Construction for her lifetime of dedication to and (MCivic Design 2006) Management 2012) For all 2020 Alumni Award
statue on Pier Head. In 2020 he was T Level Board. He has spent over ongoing support for the University. As National Officer at The Nigerian Alumni Association is one winners and 2021 nomination
awarded the Citizen of Honour by the 40 years championing young people Joining in 1960, she held lecturing the China Office of the of the most active in the global alumni details see:
positions in the Department of United Nations Human network. Working with last year’s Alumni liverpool.ac.uk/alumni/awards
City of Liverpool. and apprenticeships.
16 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 17
THE YOKO ONO LENNON CENTRE ℹ GET INVOLVED: liverpool.ac.uk/yoko
UNVEILING THE
YOKO ONO
THE NEW TEACHING AND PERFORMANCE SPACE IS
NAMED IN RECOGNITION OF THE ARTIST’S LONGSTANDING
PHILANTHROPIC EFFORTS IN THE CITY AND BEYOND
LENNON
CENTRE W
hen Jaimie Platt completed her Yoko remembers her first trip to Liverpool with
doctoral thesis in Nuclear Physics fondness. “The first time I travelled to Liverpool
last year, she was one of more was in 1967 to do a performance at the Bluecoat.
PUMPKIN UP than 600 students who, over the Liverpool was beautiful to my eyes. It had a kind of
past thirty years, has been a beneficiary poetry, style and vigour that I loved. It was
of a John Lennon Memorial also the first place John took me to
Scholarship. The scholarship was after we got together. He was
established in 1991 by Yoko proud of the city he was born
Ono Lennon (Hon LLD 2001) and grew up in. Liverpool has
in memory of her husband become part of me by years
to support students from of going there, and with this
Merseyside in financial new centre part of me will
need and who raise always be there – for that
awareness of global and I’m very thankful. I think
environmental issues as John is smiling about it too.”
part of their studies.
PH
OT
In August last year, in
Liverpool was beautiful to my eyes.
O:
M
recognition of Yoko’s long-
AT
HE
T
standing philanthropic support, the
W
PL
AC It had a kind of poetry, style and
EK
University announced its new state-of- vigour that I loved
the-art teaching and performance space,
home to the Tung Auditorium, will be named the The Director of Culture Liverpool, Claire McColgan
Yoko Ono Lennon Centre. MBE, acknowledges that Yoko has “embraced
Yoko said: “I am thrilled to be recognised with [the city’s] role in John’s life” and displayed “a love
the naming of the new performance centre at the and affection” for Liverpool that is now being
University of Liverpool. Thank you to the University acknowledged by the naming of the building after her.
and to the people of Liverpool for this wonderful
honour.” As well as bearing her name, the Centre, A cultural icon
which will open later this year, will seek to celebrate A key figure in both the Fluxus and conceptual
the artistic vision and cultural significance of Yoko art movements of the 1960s and 1970s, Yoko’s first
Ono Lennon. performance in Liverpool was the world premiere
As a world-renowned artist, musician and peace of The Fog Machine to a sold-out audience during
activist, Yoko’s name is indelibly woven into the her Music of the Mind concert.
cultural history of the city through her relationship In recent years, Yoko’s notable works have
with John, but also through her continued support included her 2004 exhibition My Mummy Was
and championing of Liverpool and its cultural Beautiful at the Liverpool Biennial, and her 2008
F Yoko Ono’s iconic 1967 performance at
Bluecoat, Music of the Mind, which marked her
heritage, which began soon after she met John unveiling of Sky Ladders in the ruins of St Luke’s,
first visit to Liverpool. Photo: Sheridon Davies Lennon in 1966. the Bombed Out Church.
18 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 19THE YOKO ONO LENNON CENTRE ℹ GET INVOLVED: liverpool.ac.uk/yoko
Yoko has also been instrumental in preserving the my ambition, which is shared with colleagues, is songwriters, electronica and spoken word events. collection of all the wishes – currently totalling over
legacy of her late husband: helping the National Trust to simultaneously operate a public venue which Many performances will involve students, but equally 1 million. They are preserved and continue on in
acquire John’s childhood house on Menlove Avenue; delivers a similar level of customer experience we would look to present high-profile visiting artists connection with the Wishing Well of the IMAGINE
supporting and donating to John’s old primary school to other prestigious concert halls in the region. and local ensembles in a varied programme to attract PEACE TOWER in Iceland.
Dovedale; and supporting the naming of Liverpool “The Tung will deliver a remarkable audience a range of audiences.” To date, the fundraising campaign has raised
John Lennon Airport. Most recently, she collaborated experience for classical chamber music. However, The new space will champion diversity and in doing £2.71m against its £3m target, with £290,000 left to
with the Museum of Liverpool in 2018/19 on the the ingenuity of design means that the acoustics so embrace the legacy of its namesake, as well as raise. As Richard acknowledges: “In my experience,
exhibition Double Fantasy – John & Yoko, for which can be adjusted to accommodate larger groups, becoming an important destination for audiences. it would be impossible to create and sustain this sort
she gave access to her extensive and personal archive. with and without amplification. A well-rounded Richard continues: “What’s great about this building of specialist facility without the incredible generosity
“It’s such a fantastic and bold decision for the programme for me would include traditional and is that it fills a niche in the city’s musical ecology. of supporters. These include our Campaign
University to put Yoko’s name on and dedicate the contemporary classical music, jazz, folk, singer- There are many wonderful and culturally significant Ambassadors – Professor Averil Mansfield CBE,
centre to her,” says University of Liverpool venues in Liverpool with long Dame Patricia Routledge DBE, Dr Joan Rodgers
Lecturer and Beatles expert, Dr Holly histories, but there is nothing CBE, Professor Shirley Thompson OBE, Vanessa
Tessler. “When she and John performed, else in the region of this Reed, Robin Bloxsidge and Nick Riddle – whose
they used their voices to activate political particular size, that will support has been crucial in helping deliver this
F Left: Richard Hartwell, Artistic Director
change and advocate for the causes deliver this experience. project. High specification concert halls are not
for the 400-seat Tung Auditorium.
they believed in, something the Below: the proposed interior layout. I would be looking to just big rooms with seats in them – everything is
University very much encourages in complement rather than designed with the acoustics in mind and this
its students, staff and the University compete with other venues complexity cannot be achieved without the right
community as a whole.” and arts organisations to financial support providing an investment for
present a city-wide offering decades of students, performers and audiences.”
So what will the centre deliver? What’s great about this building is that that benefits students, local
The new Artistic Director for the Tung it fills a niche in the city’s musical ecology… audiences and hopefully A final word from Yoko:
Auditorium, Richard Hartwell, is tasked I would be looking to complement rather people new to the city, too.” “Today, it gives me great pleasure to know that this
with developing the vision and ambitious programme As well as a cultural centre will serve as a new opportunity for countless
for the new space. “This concert hall will be a
than compete with other venues and programme, ideas being future artists and musicians to communicate their
phenomenal addition to the University campus and arts organisations discussed for the Centre work with the local audience in Liverpool, and the
will naturally fulfil a number of roles,” explains Richard. include a peace garden world beyond. I can’t wait to see what exciting new
“With the Paul Brett Lecture Theatre, it will be a space and the installation of a work is on its way.” ●
for teaching and learning, central to the delivery of the Wish Tree – a continuation
Music Department’s programmes. It will also become of an art piece Yoko
Find out more about the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre
a cultural hub for all students on campus as it will established in 1996 and and how you can get involved: liverpool.ac.uk/yoko
host rehearsals, masterclasses and talks. However, which culminated in the
WE’VE SAVED YOU A SEAT…IN THE TUNG AUDITORIUM
PUT YOUR NAME DOWN IN HISTORY
For a minimum gift of £250, your dedication will be engraved on a plaque
Naming a seat is a unique way to mark your time at Liverpool or pay tribute to someone and affixed to a seat in the Auditorium, where it will remain for the lifetime
special. By naming a seat you will be helping support our mission to bring this wonderful of the seat. Gifts can be made in full or in instalments.
new facility to the University and the city.
Located at the heart of the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre, the new state-of-the-art Tung WE’VE SAVED YOU A SEAT…NOW PUT YOUR NAME ON IT
Auditorium will seat 400 with space for a 70-piece orchestra. Find out how you can name a seat: liverpool.ac.uk/yoko/name-a-seat
20 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 21THE DIGITAL CAMPUS ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/digital-innovation/digital-recovery
THE FUTURE
The Materials Innovation Factory (MIF), established Digital is a hot topic. The University
in 2017 by the University in collaboration with Unilever,
provides industry with open access to one of the
is well-configured to welcome external
highest concentrations of materials science robotics, organisations who need help
IS DIGITAL
automation technologies, and data-driven AI and navigating this arena
machine learning. One example of its research is
the development of a cutting-edge intelligent robot
that is improving the efficiency and safety of labs
during the pandemic. The robot can not only work
autonomously on individual experiments, but can
autonomously choose which experiment to carry
out next. In addition to reducing the number of
HOW THE UNIVERSITY’S Professor Simon Maskell is an academic, trained technicians needed, it frees up headspace for
engineer and self-described “native of the digital researchers and supports further breakthroughs.
INVESTMENT IN DIGITAL world.” He’s drawn to developing pragmatic Elsewhere in the city, the University’s Virtual
TECHNOLOGY IS ENABLING solutions to real-world digital problems and Engineering Centre (VEC) provides innovative 2021 will see the opening of the brand new Digital
A SMARTER, FAIRER AND responding to challenges posed by interactions solutions for industry problems by maximising the Innovation Facility (DIF) within the Knowledge
MORE CONNECTED with industry. “Digital is a hot topic,” says Simon. potential of Liverpool’s research and access to the Quarter. The £12.7m investment, co-funded by the
“The University is well-configured to welcome latest technology. It is the UK’s only facility offering Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Local
FUTURE FOR OUR CITY
external organisations who need help navigating multi-disciplinary virtual engineering experts and Growth Fund, will provide a new home for world-
this arena – whether they need support for specific exploratory laboratories, specialising in virtual test and leading academic research dedicated to maximising
T
short-term objectives or want to engage in longer engineering reliability, digital design and manufacture, the potential of emerging technologies. Purpose-built
here has perhaps been no resource more term strategic activities, such as our work to train and autonomous and intelligent systems. The centre’s for collaboration, the DIF will contain state-of-the-art
valuable during the pandemic than digital. the graduates of tomorrow to become future experts work with clients across a broad range of lab spaces, providing new opportunities to assist our
Amidst lockdowns and restrictions, leaders in digital.” industries including aerospace, automotive, energy, industry partners in developing meaningful research
technology has made it possible for transport, FMCG and space to develop and integrate partnerships across multiple academic disciplines
businesses to keep functioning, for students to Fuelling innovation virtual technologies, allowing companies to explore including robotics, AI and data analytics. The DIF
continue learning and for us all to stay connected The University of Liverpool sits at the heart of the city’s new possibilities, maximise quality and safety, reduce is expected to create approximately 400 jobs over
with our family and friends. Knowledge Quarter, an urban regeneration district costs and gain a competitive advantage in increasingly a ten year period and boost the city region economy
Digital will also be key to driving innovation as we dedicated to innovation in science, technology, challenging global markets. by £44.5m. ●
move out of the pandemic. A recent report from the education and health. Our digital expertise spans
University, entitled ‘A blueprint for digitally-driven the sciences and humanities, and is captured in our
recovery from COVID-19’, explores the drivers behind institutional digital research theme, which represents
the increased use of technology in the workplace a critical mass of interdisciplinary collaborations that Our digital innovation network
through a survey of North West business leaders are flourishing in the University. The area is home to Companies can gain a competitive advantage by embedding emerging technologies and new thinking
from a range of sectors. It revealed that 80% of many new facilities that will make the city of Liverpool into their business with the University of Liverpool’s digital innovation capabilities. The University is
companies in the area have increased their investment a hub for world-leading academic research in working to bridge the gap between academia and industry, allowing businesses and entrepreneurs
in digital technology in direct response to COVID-19, emerging technologies and bolster the city’s future, from any sector to benefit from ground-breaking research, world-class facilities and expertise.
and a quarter have made major digitally-led changes with particular developments anticipated as part of For more information, visit: liverpool.ac.uk/digital-innovation
to the way their business operates. the city’s £1.4bn post-COVID recovery plan.
22 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 23EMMA WATKINSON ℹ MORE: liverpool.ac.uk/alumni/meet-our-alumni
●
I’VE ALWAYS BEEN AMBITIOUS, working hard They sold mid-market luxury fashion to everyday
to make the most of every opportunity that has customers, an ethos which I really loved. Whilst
come my way. I was working there, my friend approached me to
I chose to study at the University of Liverpool mainly look at a brand that his friend had recently invested
for its high-calibre English department. Literature in. We talked through all the obstacles this brand
was, and still is, something I’m really passionate would have
about. I absolutely loved being surrounded by When something goes to overcome
people who were just as enthusiastic about literature to succeed; we
as I was, and relished the opportunity to go deeper
wrong, it feels like the realised there
into my favourite subject. It was a bit like being in world is ending because might be an
PUMPKIN UP a book club! you care about it so much. opportunity
Liverpool was a bit of a home-from-home for me to create a
But when it’s going right…
– I lived there until I was 11 when my family relocated platform for
À LA
to Spain, so I already felt connected to the city. not much else comes close brands that
During my studies, I worked on the shop floor in to that feeling! are going
Whistles, which was a brand new clothing store under the
in Liverpool’s new shopping centre. That was when radar. That’s
I first experienced the joy of helping people choose how the idea for SilkFred was born. I quit my job
clothes that make them feel really good. three months later and started the company with my
I also worked in a luxury clothes store in Spain after friend and his sister – and I’ve been here ever since!
graduating, where I gradually worked my way up and
learned about everything that goes into running a A passion project
small business. Towards the end of my time there, I can see now how I have brought all my experiences
I encouraged the owners to bring the business online together in SilkFred: helping customers feel good at
– they agreed to give me a budget to set it up in my Whistles; the start-up culture of my internship; the
own time. It turned out to be a huge success and gave power of great customer service from the luxury
me my first taste of online retail. store in Spain; the ethos of being there for the
THE LIVERPOOL ALUMNA LEADING
everyday woman at My Wardrobe and the struggle
A FASHION INDUSTRY REVOLUTION Dream big faced by smaller brands.
With the thought of pursuing fashion journalism, When you start and then run a business, no two
E
I was lucky enough to spend a year in New York days are the same. There are very high highs and
mma Watkinson (BA Hons English Language & Literature 2008) as an intern at a start-up media site called Guest very low lows. When something goes wrong, it feels
is a powerhouse. After graduating in a tough economy, working of a Guest. It tapped into the trend for Gossip Girl like the world is ending because you care about it
in an array of retail roles and a stint as a journalism intern in culture; I was sent to the most incredible events so much. But when it’s going right… not much else
New York City, Emma gave up her dream job at 24 to start her including New York Fashion Week, and I interviewed comes close to that feeling!
own business. SilkFred.com is an online fashion retailer which provides a incredible people like Donna Karan and Vera Wang. My advice to students or budding entrepreneurs
platform for over 800 independent brands, devoted to helping women find As fantastic as that experience was, it showed me would be this: work hard on things that interest you;
the perfect outfit for every ordinary and extraordinary moment. As an that I’m not that interested in the fashion industry get as much experience and on-the-ground learning
F SilkFred is dedicated
ambassador for Facebook's #SheMeansBusiness campaign and a mentor – which sounds very strange based on what I do as possible; and build a network of mentors around
to the everyday woman
at the London College of Fashion, Emma is dedicated to supporting the – helping them feel now! My real passion lies in selling products and you as early as possible. I truly believe that if you
next generation of female entrepreneurs. Emma’s ambition and work ethic amazing in what they’re helping customers; these are the things that are treat everything as a learning experience, anything
wearing no matter the
can be an inspiration to all. This is her story in her own words... really important to me. can happen. I think if you’re always challenging
occasion
Shortly after that, I got my dream job on the yourself, you work hard enough, and you’re resilient
buying and merchandising team at a London-based enough, you’re going to get there. A bit of luck is
fashion ecommerce company called My Wardrobe. important, too! ●
24 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 25WELLBEING LEGACIES
A
ambassadors, you have inspired lumna and physicist, Dr Margaret Hope
THE POWER
thousands of students and young Alston-Garnjost (PhD Physics 1955) earned
people across the country to talk her Doctorate in Physics at the University
openly about their mental health. of Liverpool in 1955, before securing a position at the
With your enormous social media
following you are transforming OF LEGACIES University of California, Berkeley. There, and in what
was regarded as a pioneering role for women at that
attitudes towards mental health time, she undertook further research and co-authored
and showing the world it’s okay several articles with Dr Luis Alvarez, who later went
not to feel okay.” on to win the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1968.
IT’S OKAY TO Reacting to the Prime Minister’s
announcement, Shantanu said:
When Margaret passed away in 2019 at the age
of 90, it was her wish that students at the University
NOT FEEL OKAY
“It has been the honour of my life of Liverpool should benefit from her estate. The
to have received this award and resulting legacy, bequeathed by Margaret and her
thanks from the Prime Minister. late husband Bertram, made a sizeable contribution
Especially during these times, to the £200,000 raised by our COVID-19 Student
DURING THE PANDEMIC, MENTAL mental health issues have Crisis Support Fund, allowing the University to reach
HEALTH AND WELLBEING HAS BEEN become highly prevalent. I am the most vulnerable students facing financial hardship
AT THE FOREFRONT OF OUR MINDS, overwhelmed by the amount of as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, more
support that this charity has than 200 students have been supported as a result
AND THAT HAS BEEN PARTICULARLY
received from communities and of Margaret and Bertram’s generous gift.
IMPORTANT FOR OUR STUDENTS the government. I would like to
thank my team, without whom
Today, almost a third of the University’s
none of this would have been
fundraised income comes from legacy donations
M
possible and I am truly humbled
edical student receive funding from the National and honoured to be recognised
Shantanu Kundu Lottery Community Fund to for my work. Mental health is We cannot underestimate the impact of legacy
(pictured above) support its outreach work, and important, you are never alone, giving; without it, the University we know today would
received a Points of Light award recognition from The Diana speak up and get help.” not exist. The first recorded gift was in 1891 when the
from Prime Minister Boris Johnson Awards for his services to charity. Shantanu is the 1,496th person original University building, which now houses the
to mark 2020 World Mental Mr Johnson went on to say, to receive the Prime Minister’s UK Victoria Gallery & Museum, was funded by the people
Health Day, as well as a personal “Together with your team of daily Points of Light award, which F Dr Margaret Hope Alston-Garnjost (23 January 1929 – of Liverpool and local philanthropists. Today, almost
letter congratulating him on “the was first launched in April 2014 to 7 February 2019) Photo: Legacy.com a third of the University’s fundraised income comes
fantastic work you have done recognise outstanding individuals from legacy donations.
creating the Be Free Campaign.” making a difference where they Margaret and Bertram were passionate advocates
Shantanu set up the Be Free Especially during these live. Each day, someone in the for education and student opportunities. In addition
Campaign to reduce the stigma times, mental health country is selected to receive to the Crisis Support Fund, funds from their generous
about mental health among young the award to celebrate their legacy will be used to boost the student experience.
issues have become
people. He and his volunteer remarkable achievements, The University is privileged to have been
ambassadors use their social highly prevalent. I am including hundreds of volunteers remembered by Margaret and Bertram. Their passion
media following to promote overwhelmed by the who have been recognised for for education will leave a lasting impact upon the
mental wellbeing, and have held amount of support that how they have served their students who have benefited from the opportunities
street campaigns and workshops communities through the offered through their legacy. ●
in schools and universities for this charity has received coronavirus pandemic. ●
6,000 young people in the North
If Margaret’s story has inspired you to find out more
West and Midlands. Shantanu’s F The Victoria Gallery & Museum is testament to how the about legacy giving please visit: liverpool.ac.uk/
award follows success from earlier Find out more about how the University is supporting student wellbeing City’s generosity has always played a part in our existence giving/legacies or contact Carolyn Jones (Legacy
at: liverpool.ac.uk/feature/student-wellbeing
this year, which saw his campaign Officer) via email: carolyn.jones@liverpool.ac.uk
26 ALUMNI 2021 EDITION LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/ALUMNI 27You can also read
