Katherine and Andrew Miller return to St John’s College, where they met in 2009.
Katherine Miller and Andrew Miller first met in 2009 at St John’s College, Durham, and they returned this spring to visit. At the time, Andrew was in his third year studying Civil Engineering, while Katherine was in her first year pursuing Theology and Education. They joined St John’s because they were both aware of the Christian heritage and the close knit community. Andrew’s ncle attended in the 70s and Katherine’s older brother attended in 2005-2008. They met on Katherine’s first day and one of their initial meet ups took place in the St John’s bar, where Andrew served as Senior Bar Officer. Andrew now works for Lloyd’s banking group and Katherine is a priest in The Church of England, based in Surrey with their three children.
Both Katherine and Andrew reflect on their years at St John’s with great fondness. During their time here, they formed a close-knit group of friends with whom they have remained in touch. Katherine also shares a family connection to the College, as her brother James Donaldson was likewise a member of St John’s who married another John’s student, Caroline Donaldson. Andrew’s best friend Sam Matthews who was also at St John’s, married Katherine’s sister!
Their memories of College life include cherished traditions such as the Bailey Ball and John’s Day celebrations (including being thrown into the river) and catapulting water balloons from the windows of Linton Wing. Katherine played netball and mixed lacrosse. Andrew worked in the bar, played rugby and mixed lacrosse, and was Freshers Week coordinator. They both attended churches during their time here, with Andrew at Kings Church and Katherine at Bethshan. They loved using the library to study with helpful table tennis breaks in Leech Hall!
They remain deeply appreciative of the support they received during their time at St John’s College, which they regard not merely as an academic institution, but as a close and enduring community, one they consider an extension of their family. It’s been a joy to visit again and relive the happy memories!
John's Chronicle 