The Johnian Blog

A thriving community of Johnians met up at an alumni event last month in Singapore to reminisce, network and make plans

The Johnian Society organised a trip to the Lake District to visit the landscape of St John's alumnus William Wordsworth

From magical headliners to stunning fireworks - and a few persistent gatecrashers - memories of the May Ball last a lifetime.

Between April 2025 and March 2026, more than 1,000 Johnians raised £2 million for Dobson Free Places, unlocking another £2 million in matched funding.

Dr Cillian Ó Fathaigh (2014) was one of four Gates Cambridge Scholars on a panel discussion about leading with courage at the Cambridge Festival

How Dr Terry Downes (1989) shaped ailing Alaska Native Corporation Sealaska, to become a $1 billion ocean health business

Five alumni entrepreneurs shared their lessons from building and investing in ventures that address the world’s most urgent environmental and social challenges.

The LMBC Bicentenary Campaign surpassed its fundraising goal raising over £820,000 to transform the boathouse. This achievement is a testament to the generosity and enthusiasm of Maggie crews and supporters past and present.

Keith Barron (1968) and Evangeline Dillon (2023) first connected through the 2025 Telethon over the phone. Keith describes the connection they made spanning generations.  

Thanks to a generous donor, River Court is undergoing a major landscaping project as part of the St John’s College Masterplan. The project aims to create a new outdoor study and relaxation area amidst a thriving biodiverse spot. 

Two-times Winter Olympian Mark Hatton (1995) reveals the secrets of the luge and his commentating career.

From trousers so outrageous the owner was arrested, to a magical lost ceiling depicting the sun, moon and stars, Dr Faraday (2011) has the lowdown on Tudor art.

Clare Harvey (2003) has spoken of her excitement at being selected to be the Women’s Boat Race Umpire for 2026. 

Four new members join the Johnian Society Committee: Yijing Li (2008), Ian Roberts (1975), Steven Rosenhek (1984) and Sir Graham Wrigley (1982).