Queen¡¯s connects at the heart of Westminster
Queen's University ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ has been celebrating the power of networking at the heart of Westminster this week as part of a series of meetings and events in London.
Around 120 Queen’s alumni came together to mark St Patrick’s Day and help launch the University’s Westminster Alumni and Friends Network, bringing together Queen’s graduates working in government and civic society in and around Westminster. A panel discussion featured contributions from Queen’s graduates Baroness Arlene Foster, Lyle Watters and Mike Brown.
The event formed part of a wider programme of meetings with key stakeholders highlighting the impact of Queen’s across society.
Speaking at the event, Vice-President, Governance, External Affairs and Registrar at Queen’s, Dr Ryan Feeney, said: "Queen's has a strong record of delivery for society and the economy, and we have a network of graduates and supporters who have a huge impact in and around Westminster, from law to finance, politics to the arts, and from the civil service to civic society.
“The establishment of the Westminster Alumni and Friends Network illustrates the connections and reach of Queen’s, reinforcing the University’s role as a key driver across a range of sectors, particularly in research and innovation.
“We are delighted to welcome so many familiar and new faces to connect, network and celebrate Queen’s over St Patrick’s Day in the heart of London.”
Opening the event, Queen’s alumna and SDLP Leader, Claire Hanna MP, said: “Queen’s is a key contributor to the economy, to jobs, education and community life in ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ. Its graduates have a huge impact on the world across a range of fields and its researchers continue to contribute to big world challenges.
“Queen’s has a positive reputation and strong connections amongst politicians and organisations around Westminster.
“I’m very proud to be a Queen’s alumna and delighted to connect with other graduates and supporters of Queen’s here at the heart of Westminster.”
A man who knows a lot about the power of networks is Queen’s graduate and Honorary Graduate Mike Brown. Mike served as Commissioner for Transport for London during a period of significant improvements and previously held roles as Managing Director of London Underground and London Rail. Most recently, he oversaw the restoration of the Palace of Westminster and is currently the Chair of HS2.
Speaking at the event, Mike said: “I know the importance of networks for everyone whatever stage of life we are in. And so, it is a pleasure to be joining the panel today at the launch of the Westminster Alumni and Friends Network.
“Most of the contacts I have made over my career have been face to face and, for all of us, it is often by meeting people with different experiences and aspirations where the most positive conversations and business relationships emerge. This in turn can lead to longer term connections, new perspectives and previously unforeseen opportunities.”