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Headline Stories

Finding The Swing

“There is probably no better example of democracy than a jazz ensemble.”  These powerful words from Michelle Obama reflect a sentiment that underpins Dr Wesley Watkins’ musical mission. Reading graduate ‘Dr Wes’, as he is known, is the founder of...

Close-up image of a conductor
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Compose Yourself

“Musical sounds afforded one of the bases for the development of language,” wrote Charles Darwin. A theory which continues to inspire many of us today – including Reading alumnus and internationally renowned composer, conductor and music researcher...

Book with imaginative story coming out of the pages
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Behind The Cover

“Editorial design is about the small details – you’re not just designing the cover, but also the book interior – and those extra details need to be tight and finessed.” Reading graduate Emily Lapworth – deputy design manager at Quadrille Publishing...

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A History Of Halloween

In celebration of Halloween, we decided to ask the Department of History to share some Halloween history with us, as well as some traditions from within their own department. CONNECTED caught up with Professor Anne...

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A Journey Of Discovery

CONNECTED speaks to graduate, Jacky Pearce, about her first year memories from Reading and the impact joining societies had on her university experience. Jacky, who studied Ancient History, joined Reading in 1990...

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The Early Days of Wantage Hall

Wantage Hall, built in 1908, is the oldest hall of residence at the University of Reading. CONNECTED speaks to Chris Willson, the son of Alec Joseph Willson, who was one of Wantage Hall’s very first residents...

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The Sex Pistols On Campus

Reading has always had a vibrant music scene, hosting iconic bands on campus over the years. Today, we take a look back at May 1976, when the Sex Pistols played a gig in the Fine Art Department, sharing alumni memories...

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A Stark Climate Change Message

The White Cliffs of Dover have been illuminated blue and red to highlight a stark climate change message. The Tate Modern chimney and landmarks in Reading, the USA and Canada will also display the climate stripes on...

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Sanctuary For Ukrainians

Polly Vacher has been many different things during her life: aviator, music teacher, physiotherapist, charity fundraiser and Reading graduate to name a few. But the one constant theme has been helping people and, for...

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Making A Difference in Reading

CONNECTED speaks to Reading Voluntary Action’s CEO, Rachel Spencer, and Volunteering Development Manager, Steve Hendry – both Reading locals and University of Reading graduates – about their charity...

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Making The World A Better Place

From the Scouts, to narrating audio books for blind people, to helping local primary schools, Jack Abrey’s dedication to volunteering is evident. As a result, the University of Reading was delighted to announce...

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Generating Universes

Michael Clarkson, one half of The Clarkson Twins – a sensational writing duo behind Netflix’s latest hit, Red Rose – speaks to CONNECTED and discusses his roots, inspirations, struggles and successes...

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From Theatre Maker To Director

Judy Hegarty Lovett – winner of Best Director at the 25th Irish Times Irish Theatre Awards 2023 – speaks to CONNECTED about her experience as a director, her creative journey and how her hard work has paid off. Growing...

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Alumni and Supporter Engagement
University of Reading,
Whiteknights House,
Whiteknights,
Reading
RG6 6UR

alumni@reading.ac.uk
+44 (0)118 378 8006