Last month the University of Reading hosted three alumni events across India – bringing together graduates, stakeholders and academic leaders in Mumbai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru.
Delivered with the support of Ashish Jaiswar, General Manager of University of Reading’s India Office and his team, the events were led by our Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) Caroline Baylon, and attended by a number of senior University academics and managers. The aim of these events were to strengthen ties, celebrate achievements, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
Dr Caroline Baylon, shared the importance of our global communities and of these connections: “These receptions were some of several key events during our strategic India visit. Each city offers unique perspectives and partnership opportunities that we’re eager to explore.
“The connections we are forming embody our commitment to creating genuine partnerships that address shared challenges and create opportunities for students and researchers across borders.”
New connections
On Friday 21 March 2025, the University of Reading hosted a networking reception for alumni, partners, and friends at the British Deputy High Commissioner’s Residence in Mumbai. Of the event Dr Caroline Baylon said: “I am grateful to everyone who joined us for our networking reception, making it a truly memorable event. The energy in the room was palpable as we discussed potential collaborations in sustainability, innovation, and international education.”
Watch the video below for a glimpse of our Mumbai Reception:
Additionally, on Wednesday 26 March the University of Reading connected with both familiar and new faces during a drinks reception for alumni in Bengaluru. The evening was a heartwarming event as people made connections with others who also held fond memories from their time at the University of Reading. Of the evening, Head of Campaign and Supporter Engagement, Agnes Gibson, said: “It was such a joy to meet with alumni now living and working in the Bengaluru region.
Their memories of their time at Reading hold strong, and there were lots of stories shared.
“There was a common thread of Reading having played a really vital role in their personal and professional journeys.”
Watch the video below for a glimpse of our Bengaluru Reception:
Honouring Alumni Excellence
The Alumni Networking Reception in New Delhi on Saturday 22 March was especially memorable, not only for its lively interactions but also for the recognition of Alison Barrett MBE, County Director for the British Council in India. The University of Reading conferred its prestigious Distinguished Fellowship upon Alison, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to strengthening UK-India educational partnerships. The award was presented during a special ceremony at the University’s networking reception which brought together academic leaders, alumni, and stakeholders.
Watch the video below for a glimpse of the New Delhi event:
Alison, who studied English and history at Reading in the 1990s, has played a pivotal role in fostering educational collaboration between the UK and India throughout her career at the British Council. Of receiving the award, Alison said: “I am deeply honoured to receive a Distinguished Fellowship from the University of Reading, where I spent my formative years as a curious student 30 years ago. That same curiosity and passion for lifelong learning continues to drive me today.
“In many ways I feel like I have come full circle, and I am privileged to be able to give back through fostering knowledge exchange, championing learning, and advocating for sustainable solutions in my role at the British Council India.
This is a reminder that education is not just about where we begin, but how we continue to grow, connect, and make a difference.”
Get involved
The University of Reading India Alumni Group actively welcomes new members who are keen to reconnect with old friends and meet fellow graduates. If you’re interested in joining, please fill out the expression of interest form and we will be in touch with further details.
If you would like to attend a University of Reading event – from alumni lectures, to global gatherings, to campus receptions and campus tours – please browse our events page to find out more.
