120th Programme
You can find the latest version of the programme below. Please be aware that we are regularly updating this page as further speakers are confirmed.
See the list of Alumni-organised events that we know about. If you would like your event to appear here, please fill out this form.
| Core agenda | Family-friendly | Scholar in Residence-led |
Thursday 29 June
| Timing | Session | Confirmed Speakers |
9.30-10.30 |
Welcoming you back to the reimagined Rhodes HouseWarden Elizabeth Kiss will lead a warm welcome to the 120th Anniversary Reunion. This will be followed by Mat Davis, Director of Estates, who will deliver a comprehensive talk on the redevelopments of the reimagined Rhodes House. Attendees are welcome to join early between 08:45 and 09:15 to explore Rhodes House. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online Also at 11.30, 13.30 and 15.30Given capacity limits, this session is happening four times. We ask that you only attend one. |
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9.30-10.30 |
Sector Connect:- Education & Learning- Humanities, Arts & Culture- Global Affairs & SecurityThis session allows Rhodes Scholars to meet others within the community who either work within or have an interest in Education & Learning, Arts & Culture or Global Affairs and Security. Pick the topic that interests you the most and come along to informally chat and network with others who may be facing the challenges you are trying to solve in this sector, with the prospect of finding potential collaboration opportunities. These sessions will be facilitated by alumni co-hosts. Suitability: Rhodes Community only; session registration required; not available online |
Education & Learning:
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9.30-10.30 |
Power TalksJoin us for two short 15 minute talks on some of today’s most critical issues, followed by a Q&A with the audience Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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09.30-10.30 |
Explore the Atlantic Institute XR LabThe Atlantic Institute seeks to build a catalytic lifelong community of leaders who connect, learn and act to address the underlying causes of inequity. There are 800 Atlantic Fellows in 70 countries collaborating across diverse contexts for greater impact. The Institute has placed a strategic focus on XR (Extended Realities), or what some refer to as the embodied internet, web three or the metaverse. Just as those furthering equity throughout history have harnessed the power of traditional technologies to uplift communities and ideas, the movement toward equity will be strengthened and celebrated using emerging technologies. The Institute is delighted to welcome you to the newly built XR Lab at Rhodes House. Like the technology itself, engagement in this area is emerging, so ask questions, dream with us and explore how Fellows and Scholars can use this resource to build fairer healthier societies. Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online Also on Thursday at 11.30, 13.30, 15.30 and Friday at 10.00, 11.30, 15.00 |
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11.00-12.30 |
Uncomfortable Oxford TourUncomfortable Oxford offer an expert-led and researched way to see the iconic city whilst learning about its complex history. “The perfect introductory tour of Oxford, this tour engages with the politics of memory in the city and university. It covers histories of empire, inequality, and race, class, and gender discrimination, highlighting how these legacies have an enduring impact on our modern lives”. (Text from uncomfortableoxford.com) Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online Also at 15.00 and Saturday 12.00 |
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11.00-16.00 |
Footprints ToursFootprints Tours aim to showcase the essential Oxford sights. In this 45-minute tour, designed to refamiliarise you with (or introduce you to!) the local highlights, you will be in the safe hands of one of their professional, knowledgeable, and friendly guides, who will be happy to answer any questions you have. Tours will depart regularly once a large enough group has gathered or on the hour with 15:00 being the last departure. Suitability: all ages; session registration not required, operated on a drop-in basis; not available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
Sector Connect:- Science & Innovation- Journalism & Authorship- Government & The Public SectorThis session allows Rhodes Scholars to meet others within the community who either work within or have an interest in Science & Innovation, Journalism & Authorship, or Government & The Public Sector. Pick the topic that interests you the most and come along to informally chat and network with others who may be facing the challenges you are trying to solve in this sector, with the prospect of finding potential collaboration opportunities. These sessions will be facilitated by alumni co-hosts. Suitability: Rhodes Community only; session registration required; not available online |
Science & Innovation:
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11.30-12.30 |
The Long and Winding RhodesA lively conversation looking back and forward, for all classes, fields, and constituencies. Prompted by excerpts from Class Notes the panel will consider how the Rhodes experience has been similar across time and constituencies, what has changed and is different, compare and contrast paths since leaving Oxford, and reflect on their hopes and expectations for the future. These stories will enable the audience to consider and comment on similarities and differences with their own Rhodes journey, and their own vision for the future. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
Accessibility Exchange: A Conversation on Inclusive FuturesScholar in Residence-led programming An opportunity for Rhodes Scholars in Residence and Alumni guests working on addressing accessibility and passionate about creating inclusivity to come together to share knowledge and strategies for the future of disability and accessibility. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; not available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
Humanities & Arts PicnicScholar in Residence-led programming A picnic for Arts and Humanities Scholars (in Residence and Alumni guests) to gather round and socialise with one other, thus beginning a strong network of acquaintance (and hopefully) mentorship and collaborations amongst those working in the arts and humanities. Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
Aardman Model Making Workshop (Family)Get creative with clay in these model-making workshops led by the team from Aardman Animations, the world-famous creators of Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Chicken Run and Morph. Learn how your favourite Aardman animations are made and get hands-on making your own Morph to take home. With plenty of time to ask your questions and learn insider tips and tricks, this workshop offers a fun and fascinating look into the world of Aardman. Suitability: 6+ (families); session registration required; not available online Also at 13.30 and 15.30 |
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12.00-15.30 |
Idea GalleryJoin Rhodes Scholars in Residence, recent alumni, Schmidt Science Fellows, Rise Global Winners, and Atlantic Fellows as they showcase their projects, ideas, and research through an open poster gallery. Connect and network with the Rhodes Community through discussions, knowledge-sharing and intellectual debate surrounding their posters focusing on DPhil projects, Scholar-led projects, Service Year initiatives and the Partner Programmes. Suitability: all ages; session registration not required – operated on a drop-in basis; not available online Also on Friday 12.30-14.30 |
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13.00-14.30 |
Oxford and Empire TourUncomfortable Oxford offer an expert-led and researched way to see the iconic city while learning about its complex history. “This tour contextualises the historical ties between Oxford and the British Empire, exploring how Oxford University was shaped by the imperial project and how its graduates went on to gain powerful positions in the Empire. It begins with a visit to two museums: The Oxford University Museum of Natural History and the Pitt Rivers Museum and finishes outside in the city centre.” Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online Also on Friday at 12.00 |
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13.30-14.30 |
Celebrating Alain Locke (Pennsylvania & Hertford 1907) and supporting future researchJoin us at the Rothermere American Institute as we discuss African American scholarship at Oxford University, focusing on the life and work of Oxford’s first African American Rhodes Scholar, Alain Locke. This event will also celebrate the recent creation of the Alain Locke Collection at the Vere Harmsworth Library (VHL). Generously supported by the Association of American Rhodes Scholars, the aim of the collection is to develop our existing African American holdings and support our ambition for the VHL to become the leading centre for the study of African American history, politics and culture outside of the US. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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13.30-14.30 |
Sector Connect:- Not-for-Profit- Business & Entrepreneurship- HealthcareThis session allows Rhodes Scholars to meet others within the community who either work within or have an interest in Business & Entrepreneurship, Healthcare, or the Not-for-Profit Industry. Pick the topic that interests you the most and come along to informally chat and network with others who may be facing the challenges you are trying to solve in this sector, with the prospect of finding potential collaboration opportunities. These sessions will be facilitated by alumni co-hosts. Suitability: Rhodes Community only; session registration required; not available online |
Not-for-Profit:
Business & Entrepreneurship:
Healthcare:
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13:30-15.30 |
Auction of PromisesScholar in Residence-led programming The Auction of Promises is an annual event organised by Scholars in Residence at Rhodes House. One of the scholar-led groups, Africa IFI, has successfully run this event for the past two years, raising over £5,000 to support nonprofit organisations operating in Africa. In an auction of promises, rather than objects, it offers ‘promises’ from members of the Rhodes Scholarship community that are up for auction. It is a highly anticipated evening where the Rhodes community comes together to offer an array of promises, including unique experiences like tea with Mary Eaton, Dinner with the Warden, coding tuition, bird watching, tours of All Souls College, digital hygiene checks, and much more! In honour of the Rhodes Trust's 120th Anniversary, we are organising a similar auction that will showcase promises contributed by both the Scholar in Residence and Alumni communities. The proceeds from this event will directly benefit Scholar-led groups engaged in grassroots work within their communities. We invite you to join us and participate in the auction, where you will have the opportunity to bid on promises generously offered by Alumni and Scholars in Residence. Your involvement will contribute towards supporting these Scholar-led initiatives and their meaningful impact. Suitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |
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15.30-16.30 |
Sector Connect:- Environment & Sustainability- Finance & Investment- LawThis session allows Rhodes Scholars to meet others within the community who either work within or have an interest in Environment & Sustainability, Finance & Investment, or Law. Pick the topic that interests you the most and come along to informally chat and network with others who may be facing the challenges you are trying to solve in this sector, with the prospect of finding potential collaboration opportunities. These sessions will be facilitated by alumni co-hosts. Suitability: Rhodes Community only; session registration required; not available online |
Environment & Sustainability:
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15.30-16.30 |
Power TalksJoin us for a series of 15-minute flash talks on some of today’s most critical issues, followed by a Q&A with the audience. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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16.30-17.30 |
Portrait Unveiling of Bob and Dawn WyllieLongstanding Head Porter Bob Wyllie, and part-time Porter Dawn Wyllie, are being celebrated with a permanent portrait at Rhodes House. Join us to commemorate their years of service. Followed by a drink with Bob and Dawn at the Kings Arms. Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online |
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16.30-18.00 |
Turf Tavern TakeoverScholar in Residence-led programming An evening in Turf Tavern, dedicated to intergenerational community building and fostering meaningful connections between scholars in residence and alumni scholars. From discussing scholarly pursuits to sharing personal journeys, the event offers a platform for rich intergenerational dialogue. Suitability: Rhodes community only; session registration required; not available online |
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Various |
College led eventsMany colleges are arranging events in line with the reunion programme. See this document for a list and please contact the college directly to RSVP. |
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21.00-23.00 |
'Night Owl': Unlikeminded Open MicJoin us at our ‘Unlikeminded Open Mic’ and prepare to be impressed by the range of talents in our community! Alumni, Scholars in Residence, family, and friends are welcome to take to the stage to demonstrate their creative talents, whether musical, poetic, comedic, or anything else suited to the art of performance. If you’re looking to make more personal connections, head over to our simultaneous ‘Mega Meet and Mingle’ which will offer a chance to get to know other members of the community. Suitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |
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21.00-23.00 |
'Night Owl': QuizGet your thinking caps on again and put your knowledge to the test at the Rhodes Night Owl Quiz! Come with a team or we’ll help you form one on the night. Will your team be crowned the ultimate quiz winner and get your hands on the coveted Rhodes Quiz Cup? Suitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |
Friday 30 June
| Timing | Session | Confirmed Speakers |
08.00-09.30 |
Rhodes runners take on Christ Church MeadowScholar in Residence-led programming Lace up your running shoes and join us for an invigorating morning session led by our Scholars in Residence, as we explore the picturesque running routes around Oxford. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a novice, this event welcomes participants of all ability levels. Be prepared to embark on an energising run through Oxford's scenic landscapes, guided by avid runners from the Scholars in Residence community. Starting from a central location in Oxford, and ending inevitably in a coffee shop, this session promises a wonderful start to day 2 of events. Suitability: all ages; session registration not required; not available online |
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09.00-10.00 |
Eid CelebrationsScholar in Residence-led programming As the 120th celebrations coincide with Eid, this special event aims to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere where Scholars and guests can come together to celebrate the festival over breakfast on Friday morning. Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online |
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09:30-11.00 |
Reflections on the Scholarship's History and FutureIn this interactive session we will hear from members of the Legacy, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Groups and learn about their approach to engaging with the Rhodes Trust’s history, the reimagining of Rhodes House, and the Trust’s relationship with Africa. There will be the opportunity to breakout into groups to workshop some exciting ideas with the Advisory Group members. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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10.00-11.10 |
Rhodes Impact: Geopolitics and Global Affairs with Welcome address from Vice Chancellor, Professor Irene TraceySuitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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10.00-11.00 |
Pivotal Moments in the Trust’s HistorySuitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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10.00-11.00 |
Rhodes Impact: Law and Human RightsSuitability: 12+; session registration required; not available online |
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10.00-11.00 |
Rhodes Incubator: Elevator Pitch CompetitionScholar in Residence-led programming The Rhodes Incubator: Elevator Pitch Competition, is a platform where innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry expertise converge! This dynamic event brings together aspiring entrepreneurs and experienced Rhodes Alumni for a session of collaboration and creative problem-solving. Participants will be divided into teams, each focusing on a specific challenge within various industries. Leading these teams will be Rhodes Alumni that are industry experts, bringing their wealth of knowledge and experience to guide their teams through the process of developing a pitch for their respective new startups. At the end of the session, each team will present their elevator pitch to our panel of judges with a variety of potential prizes to be awarded. Suitability: Rhodes community only; session registration required; not available online |
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10.00-10.45 |
Modern Art Oxford Curatorial TourJoin an insightful curator-led tour within Modern Art Oxford with a special welcome from Director Paul Hobson. Modern Art Oxford is one of the UK’s leading contemporary art spaces with programmes offering opportunities for all for inspirational exchange and creative participation, both in person and online. The spotlight exhibition, “Carey Young: Appearance” will be focusing on the artist’s multi-layered vision of female identity, offering timely new perspectives on power, gender, and justice. Suitability: All ages; session registration required; not available online Also at 15.00 |
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10.00-11.30 |
Story Museum TourStart your visit to the Galleries in the Portal – a travel office that will equip you for your journey into the world of stories. Enjoy live storytelling in the Whispering Wood – a mysterious indoor forest where every tree has a tale to tell and a secret to reveal. Continue your story journey inside a giant, recycled carboard, insect-sized world and discover our temporary exhibit: Brilli-ant! How someone small changed a big story. Finally lose yourself in imaginary story worlds such as Wonderland, Narnia and Choose Your Own Adventure in the Enchanted Library. This is a self-guided tour, but it will be facilitated by a dedicated Story Guide. Suitability: families; session registration required; not available online Also at 15.00 |
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10.00-12.00 |
Natty Mark Samuels: African and Caribbean Folklore Family WorkshopJoin Natty Mark Samuels from the African School in Oxford with your family for an exciting African and Caribbean Folklore workshop. Suitability: families (age 5+); session registration required; not available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
Rhodes Impact: Business & EntrepreneurshipSuitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
Rhodes Scholarship 'Trailblazers'The aim of this panel is to celebrate, and hear from, members of the Rhodes Trust community who have led the way in a particular area. This may have been through being one of the first members of their community to attend Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, or someone who championed a new community or cause. These members of our community have been crucial in allowing the Scholarship to diversify and grow and we would therefore like the opportunity to celebrate them and hear their stories, especially as we look to the future of the Trust and how the Scholarship can continue to grow and welcome new communities. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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11.30-12.45 |
Community DialoguesCommunity Dialogues are a chance for members of the Rhodes Alumni community to meet with colleagues from the Rhodes Trust, discuss its current areas of focus, ask any questions, and learn more about our new initiatives. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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11.30-12.30 |
From the bedside to the National ConversationScholar in Residence-led programming This event will facilitate participants sharing their experiences and advice for how to most effectively use different mediums including written pieces, audiovisual formats and social media to advocate for their patients and the diseases that affect them. The session will take the form of breakout conversations around the Keble College Cafe with opportunities for Scholars in Residence to engage with alumni working in health advocacy and related fields. Suitability: Rhodes community only; session registration required; not available online |
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12.30-14.30 |
Alumni Lunches Across OxfordWhen registering, you will be asked to indicate if you would like to attend an alumni lunch. If you do, we will contact you closer to the time with confirmation of your allocated venue. Suitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online |
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15.00-16.00 |
Rhodes Impact: Education and LearningSuitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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15.00-16.00 |
Rhodes Impact: HealthcareSuitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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15.00-16.00 |
Rhodes Impact: Climate ChangeSuitability: 12+; session registration required; not available online |
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15.00-16.00 |
The Global Impact of the Rhodes Trust’s Fellowship of Fellowships – The Partner ProgrammesJoin Rhodes Scholar and Mandela Rhodes Scholar alumni, Schmidt Science Fellows, Rise Global Winners, and Atlantic Fellows to explore how the partner programmes of the Rhodes Trust come together with a shared goal to develop and support leaders with ambition to make a positive difference in the world. You will also learn about the vision of how these partner programmes are forming a 'fellowship of fellowships', how they strengthen the Rhodes community and increase positive impact in the world. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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15.00-16.30 |
Demystifying Artificial Intelligence: Debating its potential and limitationsScholar in Residence-led programming Join us for an afternoon of intellectual discourse as Scholars in Residence and Alumni engage in a thought-provoking debate against each other on the ethical, social, and economic implications of Artificial Intelligence. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; not available online |
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15.00-16.00 |
DiversiteaScholar in Residence-led programming A forum for Scholars in Residence and Alumni interested in gender issues to meet over tea and snacks to discuss prompts developed by conveners of the Rhodes Women and Gender Minorities scholar group with an aim to build connections and solidarities across disciplines amongst female identifying scholars. Suitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |
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16.30-17.45 |
Community DialoguesCommunity Dialogues are a chance for members of the Rhodes Alumni community to meet with colleagues from the Rhodes Trust, discuss its current areas of focus, ask any questions, and learn more about our new initiatives. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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21.00-23.00 |
'Night Owl': Music WorkshopJoin us for a music concert and interactive workshop by oudist and composer Mohannad Nasser. The event presents diverse musical concepts of Arabic music in a playful and interactive way. Participants can have a glimpse of the rich aspects of Arabic melodies and grooves, singing, grooving and listening to music together. |
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21.00-23.00 |
'Night Owl': FAILfaireFailure is inevitable. In fact, it’s essential – to learning, to persisting, to remembering that we are only human. In the Rhodes community, it can be especially hard to be open about failure, which is exactly why being candid and celebrating risk-taking is so important! Come ready to hear straight-up tales of epic mistakes – and to celebrate your brave fellows taking the stage. You’ll feel so inspired that you might just get up to share your own tale during the session. Suitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |
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Saturday 1 July
As some of the key events at the 120th Anniversary, we expect the sessions in the Sheldonian to be very popular. Due to a capacity of just over seven hundred, the attendance to both the Sheldonian itself and to the live-streamed video feed of the event at Rhodes House will be drawn by a random lottery. When registering for the sessions, please indicate if you would like to be included in the lottery. If successful, attendance will be limited to one alum, and one guest.
| Timing | Session | Confirmed Speakers |
08.00-09.00 |
Memorial ServiceA service honouring the alumni and members of the Rhodes Community whose deaths were recorded between 2013 and 2023. This service will take place with a humanist celebrant at Harris Manchester College Chapel. Whilst The Rhodes Trust have opted for a humanist ceremony, we would like to encourage all our attendees to practice their own beliefs in any way they wish. Suitability: all ages; session registration required; available online |
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08.00-09.30 |
Rhodes Runners ParkrunScholar in Residence-led programming As the second Rhodes Runners instalment, don't miss the chance to join a group of scholars as they take part in the weekly Parkrun. In this iteration scholars will take on the 5k route, held in the breathtaking University Parks. The Parkrun is a much-loved Oxford weekly event and offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow participants and immerse yourself in the vibrant Oxford running community. This event welcomes participants of all ability levels. Suitability: all ages; session registration not required; not available online |
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10.00-12.00 |
Plenary: Celebrating the Rhodes Scholarship's 120th AnniversaryIn this celebratory session, attendees will hear from the new Vice Chancellor of Oxford University, members of our Board of Trustees and some of the most notable members of the alumni community, both in person and virtually. There will be a strategy update from the Warden, as well as a celebration of the work of our partnership programmes. Suitability: 12+; session registration required - places allocated by lottery; available online |
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10.00-12.00 |
Paths of Resistance: Rhodes Scholars against ApartheidScholar in Residence-led programming A panel discussion aimed to delve into the past and present experiences of Scholars organising against apartheid in South Africa and Palestine, and in movements with similar struggles. With Scholars from diverse backgrounds speaking, the event seeks to foster dialogue and uncover common ground in our collective pursuit of justice and equality. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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12.30-14.30 |
Alumni vs Scholars in Residence Football MatchScholar in Residence-led programming At University Parks watch the most consequential intergenerational battle of our era unfold. Alumni and Scholars in Residence will go head-to-head in this friendly football game, with bragging rights for the next 120 years on the line. Will the youthful Scholars in Residence outpace their elders? Or will the seasoned experience and strategic brilliance of the Alumni prevail? Come along to find out. All are welcome to support, play, or picnic on the sidelines with a Pimm's in hand. Suitability: All ages (Scholars as team players); registration required only to play on the team; not available online |
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15.00-16.30 |
Closing Plenary: Debating Meritocracy: Do the winners deserve the winnings? And The next 120 years – a vision for the Rhodes ScholarshipIn the closing session of the official program for the Reunion, Professor Michael Sandel will lead an interactive and intergenerational debate (including Rhodes Scholars in Residence) on Meritocracy. During the second half of the session, the Warden together with Rhodes Scholars in Residence and the audience, will outline a vision for the Rhodes Scholarship for the next 120 years. Suitability: 12+; session registration required - places allocated by lottery; available online |
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15.00-16.30 |
The Power of StorytellingScholar in Residence-led programming Join us for an engaging panel discussion as we close out the Scholar-led programming by delving into the captivating world of storytelling. Our panellists will come together to share their invaluable insights behind crafting the powerful stories that capture hearts, stimulate minds, and drive social change. Through their diverse backgrounds and expertise, we hope to spark both intergenerational and interdisciplinary conversations on the power of storytelling to shape perspectives, ignite imaginations, and inspire action. Whether you are an aspiring writer, a passionate advocate, a curious reader, or simply an individual who appreciates the beauty of narrative, this event is an opportunity to gain profound insights into the world of storytelling and its impact on our lives. Suitability: 12+; session registration required; available online |
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18:00-19:30 |
Reception at the Ashmolean MuseumSuitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |
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18:00-19:30 |
Reception at the Pitt Rivers MuseumSuitability: all ages; session registration required; not available online |
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20:00-late |
Gala DinnersThese will take place in various venues across Oxford. When you register you will be asked to indicate whether you would like to attend, and your assigned dinner venue will be communicated to you closer to the time. One location is suitable for under 18s to attend. Suitability: 18+; session registration required; not available online |