For the past 18 years, the Telethon has brought together Johnians from across generations, offering a glimpse into the diversity of our College community. This September, our team of student callers spoke with 640 alumni worldwide, discussing student life from supervisions to sports clubs.
The response from our community was incredible. In just three weeks, Johnians pledged more than £600,000, including matched funding. These funds will support a rolling cohort of 40 free places at the College for talented UK students on free school meals through the Dobson Free Places Scheme, and will refurbish the Boat Club through the LMBC Bicentenary Campaign.
Development Director, Stephen Teal, reflected on the immense value of Johnians coming together in this way: “This year’s Telethon has shown how deeply Johnians care about the future of our College. Your support is already making a difference to the lives of students, thank you for being part of this success.”
Throughout the Telethon, our student callers witnessed first-hand the generosity of Johnians. Many alumni offered to review CVs and share networking opportunities with graduating students. Others spoke about the financial support they received during their time at College and how positively it shaped their experiences.
Zamry (2023), Law, said: “I was grateful to speak with alumni from a wide range of industries who gave me some great advice for my career. I not only enjoyed talking about my degree, but also about my interests in history and theatre!”
Willa (2023), Psychology PHD, found connections with Johnians that have helped inform her research. “Some connections were unexpected, such as those between AI and zoology, and I have come to think about my research in a new light thanks to these conversations”.
The Dobson Free Places Scheme continues to grow, with 33 places now fully endowed. Thanks to this year’s generous donations, five additional students will receive pilot awards this academic year. When the fund reaches full capacity, the number of beneficiaries will increase to 40 students per year.
Watch a short video from one of the current Dobson Free Places recipients, Mustafa (2024) AMES, as he shares the impact this award has had on his time at John’s.
The LMBC Bicentenary campaign is also making significant progress. The boathouse designs have been drafted, and planning applications will soon be submitted. The renovation will modernise the boathouse facilities, providing improved training spaces and equipment to sustain rowing excellence for years to come.
Thank you to all of you who took part in the Telethon. Your time and support showed our students that being a Johnian truly is lifelong.
Watch this video for some behind the scenes of the Telethon 2025, created by Hannah (2024), Law.
To make a gift, please visit https://johnian.joh.cam.ac.uk/donate/. Every gift, no matter the size, helps shape the future of St John’s.
