Oxford University’s most generous donors came together on Thursday 17 September to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the prestigious Chancellor’s Court of Benefactors.
The day began with a private tour of the University of Oxford’s Botanic Garden, led by the newly appointed Garden Director Professor Simon Hiscock. After exploring the gardens – the oldest of their kind in Britain – Members of the Court were invited to attend the annual business meeting, hosted by the Chancellor, The Rt Hon Lord Patten of Barnes, CH.
The business meeting was held in the stunning surroundings of the new Mathematical Institute. Some Members of the Court are major benefactors to the Institute; their contribution has been instrumental in providing the Department with much needed new teaching space.
At the meeting, Members took part in a lively Q&A session with the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and also enjoyed a short film commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Chancellor’s Court. They were then invited to attend a series of academic presentations on subjects ranging from organised crime and piracy, to mobile autonomy, contemporary art and regenerative medicine.
Later that evening, a special ceremony was held inside the Sheldonian Theatre to celebrate the impact and importance of Members’ philanthropy across Oxford, and to induct new Members to the Court. As well as the formal ceremony, this year’s 25th Annual Meeting included the unveiling of the Clarendon Arch, which records the names of visionary philanthropists that have made exceptional gifts to the collegiate University over the centuries.
The event concluded with a drinks reception and black tie dinner at the Weston Library, enabling Members to meet with a wide range of Oxford scholars, as well as to reconnect with each other.
The photographer is John Cairns.