Catch a glimpse of the atmosphere at the GFGB campaign by watching our short video, where students reflect on their time at College and share what inspired them to give back.
With final exams complete and summer in full bloom, students from the 2022 matriculation year gathered in the Master’s Garden for an afternoon of celebration and reflection. With the College at its best in the midsummer sun, the Go Forward, Give Back (GFGB) Garden Party marked the end of their undergraduate journeys, and the beginning of something new. Joined by tutors, staff, and friends, the gathering celebrated their time at St John’s and looked ahead to the legacy this year’s graduating class will leave behind.
Photo credit: Jean-Luc Benazet
The event formed part of this year’s GFGB campaign, the College’s graduand giving programme that encourages students to reflect on how they can give back to the community they’ve been part of. As students enjoyed the sunshine and a spread of food and drinks, the Master, Heather Hancock, welcomed them into the alumni community, celebrated their achievements, and spoke about the lasting impact of alumni support. She invited them to consider giving to the Dobson Free Places Fund, which helps ensure that students from low-income backgrounds can take up their place at St John’s without financial worry.
Photo credit: Jean-Luc Benazet
So far, more than 60% of those who attended have taken part in the campaign so far, and with matched funding in place, their collective gifts have raised more than £285 for the Dobson Free Places Fund. The GFGB campaign runs until 31 July and every donation goes directly towards tuition and maintenance costs for students who may otherwise be unable to study at St John’s.
To everyone who gave, we thank you. Your support will have a lasting impact, helping to ensure that the opportunity to study at St John’s is open to all talented students, regardless of their background. Seven students have already joined the College through the Dobson Free Places Fund. Thanks to the support of our newest alumni, more will now follow.
Together, our students have shown that every donation, no matter the size, helps grow the Dobson Free Places Fund and opens the Great Gates for the next generation of Johnians.
Photo credit: Ben Minnaar