Imperial celebrates the impact of philanthropy for students

Supporters, scholars and staff gathered for an evening of connection and reflected on how philanthropy enables students to reach their full potential.

On Wednesday 5 November, Imperial’s annual student support celebration took place at the heart of its South Kensington campus. Running for its third year, the evening is an opportunity for donors and alumni volunteers to connect with Imperial students and learn about the latest developments across the university. The event highlights the long-lasting impact of philanthropy in recognising talented students and supporting them on their academic, personal and professional journeys.

Transformative impact of giving

Attendees heard from Professor Alan Spivey, Vice-Provost (Education and Student Experience), who recognised donors for their continued commitment to Imperial. While Imperial’s central location in London opens up numerous paths for students, the increasingly high cost of living makes the prospect of an Imperial education unattainable for many. It now costs over £22,000 a year to live in London and as a result, many students are struggling to make ends meet. Gifts to student support allow Imperial scholars to pursue their passions and make the most out of the vast range of opportunities student life has to offer, easing the financial pressures they would otherwise experience.

One such student is Bioengineering undergraduate Josh Leong, who shared his story over the course of the evening. For Josh, who grew up working in his family’s takeaway business, studying at Imperial seemed like a dream. Receiving the Kingsbury Scholarship has enabled him to come to Imperial, focus on his studies without constant financial stress and boost his confidence: "The belief that people I had never met saw my potential and wanted to help me succeed – this support has been truly life changing."

Josh spoke about his activities beyond the classroom – from securing an internship at a nanoparticle start-up, to working in a team to develop a wearable sensor to help detect early signs of Parkinson’s disease. He said: "It’s opportunities like these that remind me just how transformative this scholarship has been – not only in supporting my studies but in enabling me to make a meaningful contribution while I’m here."

Empowering the leaders of tomorrow

Between 1 August 2024 and 31 July 2025, nearly £8.5 million was gifted towards student support, opening paths for Imperial students and allowing them to pursue their dreams. From bursaries to scholarships, philanthropy recognises bright individuals and removes barriers for students in need, including the 2,385 students who received the Imperial Bursary.

It is inspiring to see so many female engineering scholars now at Imperial. Sue Mayne

There are different reasons donors choose to support students at Imperial. Professor Eugene Wong created The Joan Wong and Jo Mayne Scholarship for Women to honour his wife Joan and her good friend Jo, wife of Professor David Mayne, late Head of Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) at Imperial. Since its establishment in 2010, the scholarship has annually awarded a female scholar studying an MSc degree in EEE, fostering the next generation of women engineers. Sue Mayne, daughter of the late Jo Mayne said: “This scholarship meant a lot to my mother – it recognises how she and Joan, both intelligent, creative women who, in a different era, might have had very different careers. When I was growing up, it was very rare to see a woman studying engineering, let alone taking on postgraduate studies, so it is inspiring to see so many female engineering scholars now at Imperial and the successes of those who have benefitted from the scholarship.”

The event also thanked volunteers who have given their time and expertise to guide Imperial students and develop their aspirations. The Alumni Mentoring Scheme gives students the opportunity to connect with experienced Imperial alumni working in their area of interest. Alumni volunteers offer advice, encouragement and insights to help students in determining the next steps in their journey, showcasing the supportive nature of the Imperial community.

Support from alumni and donors strengthens the Imperial community, enabling the next generation of leaders to continue translating vibrant ideas into innovative solutions that will shape a brighter future.

Find out more information about giving to student support at Imperial, visit Imperial’s Giving website.