The new President of the Beaufort Society met members at a celebration day in College to honour those who have chosen to leave a gift in their will to St John’s.
The Rt Hon Sir Richard Aikens (1967) takes over the presidency of the society from The Lord Browne of Madingley, who has concluded his five year term.
The event, on Saturday 11 October, included a champagne reception, dinner in Hall, and talks on the collections of the College’s Old Library as well as a presentation by a St John’s lecturer on her latest research about retirement.
Sir Richard said: “It was rather daunting to address the assembled members of the Beaufort Society for the first time as their President at their splendid autumn meeting on 11 October. And the more so as I’ve just taken over from my distinguished predecessor Lord Browne, who worked tirelessly for the Society and the College. I’ll do my best to follow in his footsteps.”
During her welcome speech, the Master took a moment to express thanks to The Lord Browne of Madingley. Under Lord Browne’s leadership, the Society has flourished, with memorable highlights including a special spring event at the Francis Crick Institute this year, where he also serves as Chair of the Board.
The Master then extended a warm welcome to The Rt Hon Sir Richard Aikens, newly appointed President of the Beaufort Society. Sir Richard, who came up in 1967 to read History and returned for Law in 1971, brings a distinguished legal career to the role, having served as a Lord Justice of Appeal from 2008 to 2015. His expertise in commercial law and dedication to education continue through his teaching roles at King’s College London and Queen Mary University of London.
Sir Richard’s connection to St John’s runs deep. As a student, he rowed for LMBC, earned First May colours, and served as Honorary Secretary of both the boat club and the May Ball Committee. His contributions have continued over the decades, including roles on the Johnian Society committee and as President in 2001. Elected as an Honorary Fellow in 2005 and joined the Beaufort Society in 2009, Sir Richard’s longstanding support of the College’s mission and values promises to guide the Society into its next chapter with strength and vision.
Guests then enjoyed a formal lunch in Hall, where Tanya Kirk, College Librarian, offered reflections on the role of libraries in shaping intellectual life and preserving heritage. The convivial atmosphere continued into the afternoon with a lecture by Professor Helen McCarthy, Fellow and College Lecturer in Modern British History. Her talk, titled Living the Dream? The Rise and Fall of Retirement in Britain, 1945 to the Present, explored the evolving concept of retirement through personal testimonies and historical analysis, prompting thoughtful discussion among attendees.
Following the lecture, guests gathered in the Senior Combination Room for tea and cake, with a very special private view of the Old Library. Evensong in the Chapel offered a contemplative close to the celebrations.
As ever, the Beaufort Society Annual Meeting served not only as a gesture of thanks but also as a celebration of community; bringing together individuals united by their connection to St John’s and their desire to leave a lasting legacy.
If you are interested in making a gift in your will to St John’s and joining the Beaufort Society, please email Emma Talibudeen or call 01223 338605 to find out more.
All photo credits to Ben Minnaar.