Celebrating legacy giving

The College's Centenary Legacy Lunch took place at 170 Queen's Gate on Wednesday 23 May

The Rector, Sir Richard Sykes, played host to the College's Centenary Legacy Lunch at 170 Queen's Gate on Wednesday 23 May. The event took place in glorious sunshine and within stunning surroundings, attracting over 40 Imperial alumni and friends.

Guests were greeted with drinks as they entered the Council Room and a warm and welcoming atmosphere was immediately established. Memories of days gone by were exchanged as alumni discussed how the College had transformed and reminisced about their student days. Some guests stumbled upon old friends they hadn't seen for many years; one guest even met up with his former lecturer!

Shortly after noon, attendees were escorted to their seats in the Council Room. The Rector welcomed guests and thanked them for attending. He introduced the College's £207 million Centenary Campaign and explained the importance of legacy giving in helping to achieve this ambitious target, giving examples of some recent legacy gifts. Sir Richard then looked forward to the future, designating guests as the College's "legacy pioneers".

Hannah Whyatt from solicitors Farrer and Co gave a brief presentation on the more detailed aspects of legacies and Will making, endorsing the importance of both contacting a solicitor if discussion is required when deciding upon the wording of a Will and letting the charity know about legacy gifts.

Everyone then moved into the hallway to indulge in an appetizing buffet lunch of salmon, salad and cheesecake. Tea and coffee was served in a sun-drenched Solar Room, where guests were treated to an enchanting piano recital from mathematics undergraduate Gamal Khamis. As the afternoon drew to a close, many guests gathered on the stairs overlooking the garden to say their goodbyes and commented on how much they had enjoyed the day.

You can download our current Centenary Legacy Newsletter  here.