A tribute to our history

In one of his last appearances as Rector of Imperial College, Sir Richard Sykes hosted the College’s third annual legacy lunch on Monday 16 June.

The event was held at 170 Queen’s Gate and attracted over 50 of the College’s former students. Guests spent time reminiscing about their student days, exchanging College memories and discussing life after Imperial, before taking their seats in the Council Room for Sir Richard Sykes’ official welcome back to the South Kensington Campus.

Sir Richard commented on how rewarding it is to witness the bond that Imperial has established with its alumni, and suggested that what really binds alumni together is the agreement that an education at Imperial College provides a great start in life. The former Rector went on to discuss the importance of legacies in enabling the College to realise its goals, prepare for the future and ensure that as many talented and deserving students as possible are able to benefit from the same great start in life.

As a result of Sir Richard’s speech, a number of guests were inspired to set up a legacy pledge to remember Imperial College in their Will. John Sharp (Mechanical Engineering 1961) decided to change the focus of his legacy to benefit some of the issues Sir Richard spoke about: “The event was a great opportunity for the Rector to get across some salient statistics about College income, such as the need for funding and lack of scholarships,” commented John. “This inspired me to change the focus of my legacy to support undergraduate scholarships at the College.”

Following Sir Richard’s introduction, Hannah Wyatt from solicitors Farrer and Co gave a short presentation on legacies and Will making. Guests were then escorted through to the hallway where they enjoyed a mouth-watering buffet lunch in the company of friends old and new.

The afternoon drew to a close in the Solar Room with a musical recital from Imperial College student musicians. The College’s Director of Music, Richard Dickens, introduced the talented performers who provided a magnificent end to a wonderful day.

Anne Blake (Mechanical Engineering 1964) summed up the special event, commenting: “I had a thoroughly enjoyable day. It was particularly inspiring to hear how Imperial College continues to develop ever greater levels of excellence. I left smiling and walked down Exhibition Road still feeling a part of the College despite having left so long ago.”