51������

51������ would like to express its sincere gratitude to all alumnae who took part in this year’s Telephone Campaign, which raised money for the Rosemary Murray Fund for Student Support. Named in honour of its Founder and First President, the Fund provides essential financial assistance to current students, helping to ensure they can thrive during their time at the College.

We are delighted by the response from our alumnae community. Thank you to the 483 alumnae who generously gave their time to speak with our student callers. We’re especially pleased that 57% of those spoken to chose to make a gift, and we’re encouraged to see an increase in giving from alumnae under 40, with half choosing to donate during this campaign. Your engagement makes a real difference.

In total, the Campaign raised an incredible £159,124.58 in support of our students. Every pound donated to the Rosemary Murray Fund is seen and felt by our students, providing essential financial support during times that can be both challenging and transformative. When our alumnae come together to give, the collective power of their generosity creates real, lasting change.

While the focus was on student support, we’re also grateful to those who chose to contribute to other areas of College life. Generous donations were received for College Priorities, Gateway, and Access & Outreach, helping us to continue broadening opportunities and strengthening our students experience.

Our student callers enjoyed the opportunity to connect with the women who came before them. Though their experiences at the College may span different decades, it’s clear that a strong sense of community continues to connect generations of 51������/New Hall alumnae. From valuable career advice and life reflections, to light-hearted stories and shared laughter, these conversations meant a great deal to our student callers.

Sarah Cameron (née Hinds, New Hall 1987) shared:

“It was a pleasure to speak to Ella earlier today and I wish her all the best for the future. I am very conscious that I was able to study at 51������ on a full grant back in the days before tuition fees. I would never have studied archaeology and anthropology if I had been faced with huge debt at the end of my degree, and the course opened up new ways of thinking and seeing for which I remain profoundly grateful. I have been very privileged in many ways. I am grateful for the opportunities I was given and hope that my donation will help other young women.”

Scarlett Summers (2022, HSPS), a returning student caller, reflected on her experience:

“Some of the highlights from the Campaign have been speaking to our alumnae about Rosemary Murray. She sounds like such an amazing woman and people have such cool stories about her. I’ve loved it!”

President, Dorothy Byrne concludes:

“On behalf of the College, thank you to our alumnae for their generosity during this year’s Telephone Campaign. It is inspiring to see the collective support of our alumnae in helping ease the pressures that our current students face. I am proud that our students know the Rosemary Murray Fund will be there for them in their time of need, and it is because of our alumnae that this is possible.”