On the first weekend of September, over 70 alumni made their way back up the Bailey for a reunion weekend. Johnians from 2009 to 2012 formed an 11 Year Reunion while those from 2015 to 2018 celebrated their 5 Year Reunion.
Stephanie Vincent-Sweet (Sociology, 2009-2012) began organising a 10 Year Reunion for her cohort in earnest. Only nearer the time did it dawn that this would be an 11 Year Reunion! Coincidentally Stephanie, travelling from Paris, made friends with another Johnian on the plane – Tara from the 5 Year group.
Jemima Luxton (Archaeology, 2015-18) organised the 5 Year Reunion group, rallying a record 55 to attend.
In true John’s fashion, the two groups happily banded together to make one larger reunion event. On Friday night, they enjoyed a quiz in the bar. On Saturday, after breakfast served by Christine and the catering team, some played sports on the racecourse while others took a leisurely wander around the City. In the afternoon, many gathered to view the LRC (Learning Resource Centre) for the first time. This library building was first opened in 2019, and many recalled the old red-brick house that used to stand in its place.
Our 5 Year Reunion was just FANTASTIC! Whilst I might be biased, I have always felt that we lucked out with our cohort…. they arrived in first year with what I can only describe as ‘Johnian energy’ and everyone did not forget to pack this when we all returned for our reunion. The excitement and happiness to be back in college, catch up and be together again was large and the weekend did not disappoint.
It was just a joy to organise, the turn out was incredible and everyone so very appreciative. We danced, ate and drank the bar dry whilst revisiting as much of Durham and memory lane as we could. I know I speak for everyone when I say that we ALL look forward to coming back to John’s – our home – again very soon.
Jemima Luxton
By Saturday evening, guests had donned their formal attire for a sparkling reception out in the gardens and a three-course dinner in Haughton Dining Room. Angela Cook, former Director of Finance and Administration, came out of retirement to attend and took on a familiar role of serving the cava. Our new Principal, Professor Jolyon Mitchell was pleased to be there for his first formal as Principal (‘elect’ at the time) and gave the after-dinner speech, seeking advice and wisdom from the seasoned Johnians in attendance. Stephanie and Jemima both also spoke on behalf of their cohorts.
The Sunday morning of a reunion usually means one thing – a lazy brunch. And then began the journey home for our alumni, with full hearts and full bellies.
We traditionally hold a 5 Year Reunion each September – the next one will be for the Freshers of 2016 on 6-8 September 2024. If you would like to hold a reunion (of any year) then we’d love to hear from you and can help to organise. Email johns.alumni@durham.ac.uk and see our Reunions webpage for more information.
John's Chronicle 