'Wonderful reunion' sees forum, events to honour E F Schumacher, Distinguished Friends, class of 1961, and Lord Waldegrave

Enjoying a 'wonderful reunion', over 300 Scholars from seven decades and many countries took part in events at Rhodes House during the Oxford University Alumni Weekend which included a forum on 'The Rhodes Scholarships for the 21st century', and events honouring E F Schumacher, the 50th anniversary of coming up for the Rhodes class of 1961, and Lord Waldegrave on his retirement later this year as Chair of the Rhodes Trustees.

Seminar for E F Schumacher centenary
A seminar to mark the centenary of the birth of E F Schumacher (Germany & New College 1930), economist and author of Small is beautiful (1973), on Friday 16 September honoured his ‘prophetic voice’ and the relevance of his ideas to addressing current world challenges.  

In opening remarks, Dr Donald Markwell, Warden of Rhodes House, spoke of Schumacher's life and career, including his strong links with Rhodes House and the German Rhodes Scholarships. A panel discussion involved three speakers: Barbara Wood, daughter and biographer of E F Schumacher (comments here); Simon Trace, Chief Executive of Practical Action, the charity founded by Schumacher; and Ann Pettifor, Executive Director of Advocacy International. 

The speakers explored how Schumacher’s ideas, which included an emphasis on intermediate technology, sustainable development and the importance of human wellbeing as the starting point for economic thought and action, developed through his work and are applicable in the 21st century. 

Distinguished Friends of Oxford
Friday also saw a University ceremony during which three members of the Rhodes community were amongst those honoured as 'Distinguished Friends of Oxford'. They are - Thomas Böcking (Germany & University 1970), Peter Paine (New York and Christ Church 1957), and Lord Waldegrave, retiring Chair of the Rhodes Trustees. Details of the contributrions of the three Rhodes 'Distinguished Friends' are here. For further information about DFO and all 2011 recipients, click here.

Since the creation of the awards in 1997, nearly one third of the exceptional individuals recognised as Distinguished Friends of Oxford have been members of the global Rhodes community - reflecting exceptional contributions by Rhodes Scholars to the collegiate University.

Celebrating the Rhodes class of 1961
The contribution of Rhodes Scholars was also recognised at a luncheon held on Saturday 17 September celebrating the 50th anniversary of coming up for the Rhodes class of 1961. Scholars from the class of 1961 travelled to Oxford from as far afield as Brisbane and Vancouver. 

In his speech of welcome, the Warden reflected on the remarkable achievements of the cohort of Scholars.  Arthur Scace (Ontario & Corpus Christi 1961), who was the Canadian National Secretary from 1973 to 2009, which he described as ‘one of the best jobs of my life’, warmly responded with his fond memories of coming up to Oxford and half a decade engaging with ‘the distinguished group’ that is the Rhodes community.

Forum on 'The Rhodes Scholarships for the 21st century'
Later in the day and for the second consecutive year, Scholars of all generations were invited to participate in a forum on ‘The Rhodes Scholarships for the 21st century’.  After watching the Glimpses of Rhodes video and an update on developments since the last forum, Scholars engaged in small group discussions to contribute valuable ideas to key strategic questions posed by the Warden. They focussed on how to give the best effect in the 21st century to the great ideals on which the Rhodes Scholarships are founded.

The constructive and insightful feedback provided by the Scholars touched on topics including how best to attract outstanding young individuals to apply for the Scholarships, the benefits of offering Scholarships in emerging countries, and the importance of securing the Scholarships for future generations. The Warden spoke of how input from Scholars had already led to many significant improvements, including in Scholar activities, alumni engagement, and governance, and how the input from this forum and other occasions would further assist the Trustees and himself in shaping and implementing strategies for the future.

Honouring Lord Waldegrave
Saturday concluded with a reception in honour of Lord Waldegrave of North Hill, on his retirement as Chair of the Rhodes Trustees since 2002, and as a Rhodes Trustee since 1992.  Warm thanks for his service and contribution were extended in speeches by Rhodes Trustee Professor Sir John Bell (Alberta & Magdalen 1975) and by Shaun Johnson (South Africa-at-Large & St Catherine's 1982), Chief Executive of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation, and by the Warden of Rhodes House, Dr Markwell.

In reply, Lord Waldegrave spoke of the profound value of the Rhodes Scholarships, including in promoting linkages between outstanding young people from many countries, which can contribute to improving the prospects for international cooperation. He said that, with Rhodes Scholars increasingly participating in shaping the future of the Rhodes Trust and Scholarship, he looked forward with confidence to the future of the Scholarships.

(For further tributes to Lord Waldegrave, click here.)

Brunch and Open House
Sunday saw many Scholars and guests enjoy a Brunch and Open House at Rhodes House, a relaxing occasion which included ‘the Great  Rhodes non-Trivial Pursuit’ quiz. 

Andrew Park (Illinois & Lincoln 2002), an internationally recognised concert pianist, delighted the audience with two sets of musical entertainment, including a beautiful piece from the recent film ‘The Tree of Life’, which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2011 and was directed by Terrence Malick (Oklahoma & Magdalen 1966). 

Mixing at Rhodes House, including in the prize-winning gardens, during the Open House were Lady Williams (who supported Sir Edgar Williams at Rhodes House throughout his Wardenship, 1952-1980), the Vice-Chancellor and Mrs Jennie Hamilton, many current Scholars, Rhodes alumni and their families, including many young children, current and former staff, and other friends of the Scholarships.

The Warden warmly welcomed all members of the Rhodes community to these events, and encouraged them to come, if they can, to Rhodes events in 2012, including during the 2012 Oxford University Alumni Weekend (Friday-Sunday, 14-16 September 2012). For details of Rhodes events, click here.

Many Scholars remarked that the 2011 weekend was a ‘wonderful reunion’.  Please enjoy the photo galleries of each event below:

E. F. Schumacher centenary seminar



Class of 1961 reunion luncheon



Rhodes forum



Lord Waldegrave reception



Brunch and Open House