Alumni Celebrations

Cecil the Lion was the subject of a fascinating after-dinner presentation by Professor David Macdonald (Zoology, 1969) at the Wadham Alumni Society dinner.

As Founder and Director of WildCRU, the research unit which had been tracking Cecil the lion, David shared the history of Cecil’s life, brought to an end by a big game hunter, and the global response immediately following his death.  Crediting a heart-felt appeal by US comedian Jimmy Kimmel on his late-night talk-show, Professor Macdonald described the intense media interest and outpouring of support from donors across the globe to the news of Cecil’s death.

The dinner was preceded by the Wadham Society AGM on 9 September. Outgoing President, Ross Hutchison (Philosophy and Modern Languages, 1979), chaired the AGM, presiding over proposed changes to the Constitution, election of new committee members, and election of a new President of the Society.  Sachin Patel (Physics, 2001) was elected as incoming President, a position he will hold for the next two years.

Members of the 1610 Society reunited on Friday 8 September. One highlight of the meeting was a presentation from Professor Tom Sinclair, Tutor and Fellow in Philosophy, who gave a talk on ‘Justice, Legitimacy, and Immigration’. The Warden, Ken Macdonald QC and Development Director, Julie Hage, shared College news and updated members on the progress of the College’s Access to Excellence strategy.  Guests then enjoyed a service in Chapel with music from Wadham's Chapel Choir, a drinks reception and black-tie dinner in Hall. The 1610 Society is made up of benefactors who have made major contributions or left a bequest favouring Wadham in their wills.