2 | STEPS 2023 I’m pleased to pay tribute to the wonderful work of the Student Union and our brilliant students, who over recent years have had to face so much adversity. A true team effort and something we are all proud of. You may be wondering why this introduction has fallen to me and not, as is the norm, the ViceChancellor. Fear not, for Andy Schofield features later, in an article that reflects on his first three years at Lancaster, since his arrival amid the first Covid lockdown. It is a period of our history that has brought out the very best of our University, and Andy has led from the front throughout. Mention of Covid is a reminder that a common theme of these introductions over recent years has been the various crises facing us, both nationally and internationally. Recent history seems to have delivered a repeat performance of the challenges witnessed a century ago – war, pandemic, economic downturn, political schism; each contributing to cost-of-living pressures. And casting a pall over all is the growing climate emergency. While seeking to address the other challenges, institutions like Lancaster are working harder every day to counter this existential threat, both in terms of our research outputs, but also in the ways we live and work. Thus, it was encouraging that in a newly created QS ranking of sustainable universities, Lancaster was placed 26th in the world. Keeping with this theme of sustainable living, we are also playing an important role in plans to create a northern offshoot of the wonderful Eden Project, in Morecambe - a potential game changer for our near neighbours and for our whole region. While Lancaster continues to contribute to solving the world’s problems, we shouldn’t lose sight of the University’s impact on individual lives. In two articles, Nick Hope (Psychology, 2005, Grizedale) and Rachel Mann (MA Philosophy, 1993, BA Philosophy, 1991, Cartmel) look back on the positive impact of their time here. I’m sure many of you will have similar memories, and these will often be focused on collegiate life. In a whirlwind tour we look at some of our recent college developments and highlights. Elsewhere in this edition, you will find news of another of Lancaster’s key research themes, Ageing. Mentioning this leads to a reminder that Lancaster turns sixty next year. We will be looking to celebrate this anniversary with alumni across the globe, so do keep an eye on our website for news of events and activities. And, as always, please do stay well, stay safe, and stay in touch. Nick Fragel Director of Philanthropy, Alumni and Supporter Engagement Welcome Contents I am delighted to welcome you to the latest edition of Steps with news of a famous win in Roses. For the first time since 1985, Lancaster achieved victory in the fair city of York. Putting this triumph – by the huge margin of 74 points – in context, most alumni who’ve graduated since 2007 weren’t even born when we last won an away fixture, in what has become the biggest inter-varsity competition in Europe. 06 07 Alumni in Print The Big Day 04 Lancaster University Transformed My Life 08 Leading a World Class University
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