We’ve taken a long, hard look at our existing alumni magazine and have overhauled its content and design.

Imperial’s readers already all have something in common: we are members of an extended family. Whether you are an alumnus, parent, supporter or just count yourself as an interested friend, I hope you will find Imperial a good quality read and that it will strengthen the links between us. Your letters and comments are very welcome.

Domestic affairs

During my first twelve months as Rector significant changes to the UK’s higher education system came into view. We are without question moving into a new world. Public expenditure on research is relatively unchanged for an institution of Imperial’s global quality, but from 2012 there will be a big shift in the balance of funding for undergraduates. Direct government support will largely end and UK and EU students will instead pay for their university tuition (£9,000 per year at Imperial) through a loan that they will pay back when they are earning enough to do so.

In response we have created a financial aid package that will support our twin objectives of maintaining the quality of our education (which for our science, engineering and medical subjects is expensive) and giving all who can benefit from our courses the opportunity of an Imperial education.

A clear implication of these changes is the need for Imperial to have greater independent and sustainable sources of financial support for students. This year alumni have responded to our appeals as never before – more and more of those who have benefited from an Imperial educationthemselves are assisting future generations of students. For all your donations I am enormously grateful on behalf of the College.

Global effects

This year I have been delighted to meet many proud Imperial alumni and supporters in the UK and across the globe. Alongside the October signing of our agreement with Singapore to develop a new medical school we had a wonderfully attended reception, and visits to China and Taiwan at Easter have led to many positive exchanges. Both visits herald a new approach to keeping College links around the world in good health, and more are planned for later this year (see inside back cover).

A champion for Imperial’s international outlook has been our Chairman, the former diplomat Lord Kerr. John retires this summer as Chairman of Court and Council after more than six years of steering through a period of considerable change, not least establishing Imperial as an independent university in its own right in 2007. Fortunately for us, the Deputy Chairman, Baroness Eliza Manningham-Buller, has been appointed to succeed John. We are delighted that a person of such talents is able to follow him.

Wishing you an enjoyable and fulfilling summer.

Best wishes,

Keith O’Nions