St John’s alumni gather in Singapore for memorable meet-up
St John’s Development Director Glen Whitehead visited alumni in Singapore last month and was delighted to meet a thriving community of Johnians of all ages.
Over dinner at the Tanglin Club, alumni enjoyed a relaxed evening of reminiscing and networking – as well as giving advice to those offer holders attending, about to begin their own adventures at the College.
Glen said: “This was a really enjoyable occasion with a diverse group of all ages. What stood out was the affection shared by all guests for St John’s, with shared memories and lifelong friendships made. It was excellent to hear offer holders talking about their excitement and anticipation, looking forward to their time at St John’s and receiving valuable advice on how to get the most out of College. It was a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, with old connections strengthened and new connections made.”
As well as enjoying a social evening, the group also discussed ways to support the life and work of the College for current and future students. “Members of the alumni community have helped develop a renewed focus on the Singapore Scholarship, a prestigious programme which has run successfully in the past and which we are keen to continue,” said Glen. “The commitment to the College, and to helping talented young students experience all it has to offer, is strong.”
Glen reflected on what makes an alumni networking event special: “The College is an important part of alumni identity. Johnians have a very natural interest in the College’s ongoing success, in the vibrancy of its academic, research and co-curricular life, and in the role it plays helping to develop future leaders. This is a lifelong, shared commitment forged in the incredibly formative years that alumni spent at St John’s. Getting together and ‘comparing notes’ is naturally enjoyable – as is sharing the many anecdotes on shared College experiences.”
For anyone who would like to hold a St John’s alumni meet up in their own area, the Development Office is happy to assist with putting Johnians in touch. Please contact us at development@joh.cam.ac.uk. Glen added: “Many alumni groups have been set up internationally over the years. Contact us to find your local alumni representatives.”
