23 October 2009, 6.30 pm
This event was part of the University's worldwide centenary celebrations.
The evening started with a drinks reception, followed by the Vice-Chancellor’s talk which took stock of the first 100 years of the University and outlined major plans and developments for the future. Concluding the talks was Professor David Clarke, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, with his thoughts on 'Witnessing the University’s internationalisation – Reflections on 30 years at Bristol'. This was followed by a lively discussion, socialising and networking over hors d'oeuvres and drinks.
Guests were invited to attend the Vice-Chancellor’s forum prior to the reception. This was a unique opportunity for alumni to take part in an in-depth conversation with one of the UK’s most respected and influential Vice-Chancellors. Professor Eric Thomas* (Hon LLD 2004) shared his insights with alumni on some of the current issues facing UK Higher Education, including the role of universities in society, participation, the value of degrees and access to higher education.
* Professor Thomas was Chair of the Worldwide Universities Network from 2003-2007. He is the longest serving Vice-Chancellor in the Russell Group, an association of the UK’s 20 major research-intensive universities. He is Chair of the Research Policy Committee of Universities UK and a member of its Board. He is a member and trustee of the UK Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. He chaired the UK governments task force into Increasing Voluntary Giving in Higher Education which reported in 2004.