After an incredibly successful Alumni Weekend in Washington, DC, we were eager for Oxford's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Louise Richardson, to meet with Oxford alumni and friends of the University in New York City. On 8 September, a very warm late-summer day, Professor Richardson was greeted by over 120 guests at a drinks reception in Oxford's North American Office. Professor Richardson was introduced by the North American Office's Executive Director, Michael Cunningham, as a "crystal-clear scholar" (a reference to her roots in County Waterford) and delivered brief remarks on the continuing success of Oxford students and academics.
Professor Richardson acknowledged that times are uncertain for the United Kingdom and the University, but remains confident that as long as Oxford continues to attract the best and brightest from around the world, we will continue to thrive. Oxford is filled with people with great magnetism, across all areas of academia. Despite the pervading "Brideshead" image of Oxford, which Professor Richardson confessed she was expecting, the University continues to make extraordinary steps forward in the medical and physical sciences. That these cutting-edge achievements continue to be made in the city of Dreaming Spires proves how resilient Oxford and the wonderful people who make up Oxford are. Indeed, the landscape of the city of Dreaming Spires is changing; Professor Richardson hopes (as do we all) that the buildings being constructed now are as admired in 300 years as the most ancient of buildings in the city.
Most importantly, Professor Richardson discussed the recent news that the incoming class of first-year undergraduates at Oxford will have the highest number of state school students in decades. As the University continues to make inroads to reach the widest breadth of bright and capable students, there should be no concern in the successes at Oxford diminishing.
We look forward to hosting more events for Professor Richardson throughout North America during her tenure as Vice-Chancellor, including her next visit to Boston in October. We hope to see you at upcoming events!
Be sure to stay connected with our office and check our calendar to find out about upcoming events!