1. AluminationMarch 2011 | The magazine of the York St John Alumni Society
Issue 11 | University news | James Caan | Volunteering in Haiti | Success stories
Special edition
York St John welcomes new Vice Chancellor
Graduation 2010 International news

2. Contents
Alumni Development Office news 3
University news snippets 4-5
Haiti – one year on 6-7
Alumni profile 8
Student profile 9
Business School news 10-11
Students’ Union news 12-13
Alumni profile 14
York St John Rowing Club 15
Alumni Business Success stories 16-17
YSJ Connect 17
Faculty of Arts news 18-19
YSJ welcomes its new VC 20-21
Faculty of Education & Theology news 22-23
Alum of the Year 24
Graduation 2009 & Life More Abundant 25
Graduation 2010 26-27
Alumni profile 28-29
International news 30-31
Student profile 32-33
Association news 34
Ripon news 35
Faculty of Health & Life Sciences news 36-37
Career Development 38
Facts and figures 39
2
Editorial Team
Brett Arnall Editor, Alumni & Development Manager
John Maw Editor, White Rose, Honorary Fellow
Kate Hutchings Editorial consultant, Alumni & Development
Officer
Judith Coates Editorial consultant, Marketing Officer
Amy Hey PR & Communications Officer
Craig Walton Graphic Designer
Photography
Marketing Department
Association Publicity Officer
Alumni Development Office
The Editorial team would like to thank all those who have
contributed to this publication. The opinions expressed in
Alumination do not necessarily reflect the views of the Alumni
Development Office or York St John University.
A warm welcome to issue 11
from the Chair of Governors
I’m delighted to welcome you to issue 11 of Alumination. After 12 years
of happy association with York St John my term of office on the Board of
Governors will draw to a close in August 2011. This period has marked
some great changes but I will look back on 2010 as a truly memorable
time for the University. We said goodbye to Professor Dianne Willcocks
who led York St John to University status and we welcomed Professor David
Fleming as our new Vice Chancellor at the beginning of June. I believe
David proved to be an excellent choice as in the few months he has been
with us he has made an impressive impact on both York St John and also
in the way in which he has built partnerships within the wider region. I
thoroughly enjoyed the ceremony held in York Minster on 2 November for
the Vice Chancellor’s inauguration, joined by staff, students, alumni, friends,
professional partners alongside our Chancellor, the Archbishop of York.
After a detailed and considered selection process I am delighted to
announce that the new Chair of Governors will be Ann Green CBE FCMI
FRSA. Ann, who lives in York, has extensive experience in business and the
commercial world, along with a strong interest in heritage and culture.
She is currently Chairman of The Royal Armouries Board of Trustees, a
non-executive director of the Department of Culture, Media & Sport and
Chairman of Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd, the company responsible for
the World Heritage Site. She is a former director of the Northern Stock
Exchange and the Northern Industrial Society.
I have enjoyed my association with York St John University and will be sad
to leave, however, Ann will be an outstanding replacement. York St John
University has been a fantastic place to be involved and associated with and
I have enjoyed the company of governors, staff, students and visitors. I shall
always be proud of what the Institution has achieved and the outstanding
graduates we have produced. I shall take an interest in the future of the
University but only as a supporting
admirer of what can be done to help
the social and educational needs of
students and staff. The education
sector is facing new challenges and York
St John will face transition. However,
our proud history, strong community
spirit and the exceptional learning
experience provided by the University
will continue to shine through.
Robin Hall, Chair of Governors

3. Soon we will be helping to organise 10-year-out reunions - starting in 2013 - to commemorate
the formation of the Alumni Society in 2003. We are happy to support any group reunions that
take place so please do get in touch if you think we can assist in any way. We are now sending out
e-zines to our news and events group. E-zines are an easy and convenient way of keeping up-to-
date with opportunities and events. If you would like to receive the News & Events e-zine please
E: alumni@yorksj.ac.uk.
Many congratulations to Professor Andy Smith who was awarded an MBE in the 2011 New Year’s
Honours list for his services to sport and education. Andy is now working in a professorial role
within the Faculty of Health & Life Sciences on a number of specialist subject projects. Over the
next year he will also be carrying forward a number of exciting fundraising initiatives on behalf of
the Vice Chancellor.
Outstanding SPARK support
One of the factors that makes York St John such a special environment is the close knit,
supportive community that exists with alumni, students, staff, governors and a growing number
of external friends. This is evident in the number of supporters fundraising for SPARK. The fun
run raised £4,000 last year but we also had some new exciting events
on the calendar! In March 2010 the Student Warden Team organised
an outstanding Student Warden Variety Entertainment Show featuring a
diverse range of acts, raising £800 for SPARK. This was followed by staff
members Donna Harrison and Kirstin Thompson organising the first ever
Staff Big Band Idol (featuring songs performed by the Big Band and sung
by staff). This event raised over £1,300 for SPARK and the winning act was
Kathryn Hassell, Frankie Sharpe and Stephanie Ley from the Student Advice
team with their version of ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’.
We hope you take a look at the enclosed inaugural York St John University
Donor Newsletter, showing how the SPARK fund has grown and supported
so many students at York St John. We are particularly proud that in both
2009 and 2010 a SPARK Scholarship student won an Adult Learner of the
Year Award.
We will be running a telephone campagn later in the year, if you would like to opt out please let us know by 29 April 2011.
E: alumni@yorksj.ac.uk or T: 01904 876432
Events
A comprehensive list of 2011 York St John events is available on the York St John website: www.yorksj.ac.uk/events. We thought the following
may be of interest to you:
11 May 3.30pm Foundation Day Featuring a Chapel Service and the Association Town & Gown lecture: ‘Past Successes,
Future Challenges’ by Baroness Estelle Morris of Yardley (this event starts 6.30pm)
21 May Day at the Races YSJ’s annual Day at the Races (York Racecourse) –
County Stand tickets are available for £20 (usually £34)
A small proportion of each ticket sale goes to SPARK
More information about these events are available on the alumni web pages www.yorksj.ac.uk/alumni
3
Alumni Development Office news
Frankie, Stephanie & Kathryn celebrate
Fun run 2010 – featuring the Smurfs!
Find us on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/ysjalumnisociety

4. 4
University news
Times Higher Award success for Schools Liaison
and Admissions Team
In June 2010 York St John’s Schools Liaison and Admissions Team won the
Student Admissions Team category at the Times Higher Education Leadership
and Management Awards. The event was held at Grosvenor House Hotel in
London, York St John was one of six universities that had been shortlisted.
Prior to the team receiving this prestigious award the University had
experienced a growth of almost 40% in its applications and 30% in its open
day visits. Many projects managed by the team are supported by a very
successful student ambassador scheme.
Outstanding contribution
recognised for Professor Billingham
In August 2010 York St John staff said a sad farewell to Former Pro Vice
Chancellor, Professor Stuart Billingham. Stuart was widely respected for his
contribution to widening participation. In June 2010 he received recognition
for this outstanding contribution at the annual York & North Yorkshire
Aimhigher Awards. Aimhigher is a national programme to raise aspirations
and attainment of those groups which are under-represented in Higher
Education. Professor Billingham picked up an award for his ‘Outstanding
Individual Contribution to Aimhigher’ demonstrated by his commitment
and enthusiasm in representing, and providing strategic leadership of, the
Aimhigher programme and also for his work in this field at national level.
Stuart worked in Further and Higher Education for over 30 years.
Lifetime achievement award for former Vice Chancellor
In December 2009 Professor Dianne Willcocks CBE, former Vice Chancellor of
York St John University was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by York Press.
The award was in recognition for her services to businesses in York. The Business
Awards have been run by The Press for 19 years and Dianne was the first woman to
receive this accolade.
Professor Willcocks CBE
Outstanding contribution recognised for
Professor Billingham
Members of the winning team

5. Times Higher Award success
for Schools Liaison
and Admissions Team
5
New student halls at Gray’s Wharf
On 8 September 2010 the new 232-room student halls at Gray’s Wharf were
officially opened. This car free site is situated on a previously derelict site
off Navigation Road. The neighbouring development on Percy’s Lane has
been praised for its contribution to the regeneration of the local area. Gray’s
Wharf incorporates many sustainable energy saving features including waste
recycling, air source heat pumps and a heating system which recognises non-
occupancy of a room.
Olympic champion visits York St John
Olympic champion Jonathan Edwards CBE, Deputy Chair of the Nations and
Regions Group of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and
Paralympic Games, took part in an inspirational day on 22 September 2010
to promote and support sport and business in the region. The event was
designed to challenge attitudes to disability and explore how having a disability
can be overcome in business, sport and culture. Jonathan, who has held the
world record for the triple jump since 1995, was joined at the event by the
Chairman of Paralympic GB, Tim Reddish OBE.
The theme of disability in business was highlighted in a conference at York St
John Business School, with presentations from Deloitte, Job Centre Plus and
Alan Rayment, Coach and Ambassador for Triathlon England Disabled Athletes.
The Vice Chancellor’s Team at York St John
York St John University completed its top team with two new key
appointments. David Chesser joined the University as Pro Vice Chancellor
(Resources) and Sue Reece became the new Pro Vice Chancellor
(Development). David Chesser was previously Deputy Vice Chancellor
and Finance Director at Northumbria University. Sue Reece has previously
spent several years at the University of Sunderland where she was Director
of Student Recruitment and Business Partnerships.
l-r Sue Reece, David Fleming, David Maughan Brown & David Chesser
SU President, Leigh Hankinson and the VC cut the ribbon
(l-r) Alan Rayment, Professor David Fleming, Jonathan Edwards
& Tim Reddish

6. On 12 January 2010 an earthquake registering 7.0 hit the nation of
Haiti in the Caribbean. I watched the news unfold over the following
weeks in despair and disbelief as stories reported loss of lives, homes
and shattered communities. Thousands of people were said to have
lost their homes and over 3 million people were affected. I had
known something about Haiti’s already impoverished state and almost
total lack of infrastructure and development. I could not begin to
comprehend how they were going to be able to cope with such a
terrible disaster.
I felt compelled to find ways in which I might be able to offer some
help in terms of opportunities for assisting in devising and developing
some culturally sensitive bereavement counselling or arts therapy
programmes both in terms of immediate disaster response and longer
term projects. I began to research what support was being made
available. Information was very sparse. There was one project being
run by The Quisqueya University at Port-au-Prince. The University,
which had been completely flattened by the quake, had started to
develop an Arts Therapy programme with a skills-based team of
volunteers. Education students from the University had been given a
crash course in psychosocial support. They were running workshops
at the weekend for children with numbers as many as 150 at a time.
They were working from tents in the streets, their motto being ‘the
streets are your university now’. Many of the staff and students had
been killed in the quake. Whilst there may have been some other
support programmes developing, communication was very limited. I
wanted to try to find an aid organisation with a view to flying out to
gather more information.
With work and family commitments I was only able to travel initially
for a period of 3-4 weeks. I felt this was an important concern whilst
considering the nature of the work which I could undertake. Any
kind of therapeutic support would not, I felt, be appropriate unless
a longer term commitment could be made on the project. The
people were already physically and emotionally vulnerable. Building
relationships with them for such a short space of time could have been
potentially damaging to their emotional wellbeing in terms of forming
attachments then have their trauma increased by leaving and returning
back home after a couple of weeks.
With this in mind, I looked further at skills-based volunteering. There
was a start-up development project with an international NGO with a
‘vision to support the work of local community organisations’. They
were looking to recruit people on their initial Programme Development
Team starting in April. The mission was described as a psychosocial
project and they were seeking out professionals worldwide to ‘assist in
implementing and establishing the buildings of a sustainable volunteer
programme, working with their partner organisations and preparing
the way for future teams to join the programme’. The project was
to be based in displacement camps in Jacmel in Southern Haiti
where more than 3,000 children, youth and women had been made
homeless after the quake.
I was offered a place on this programme and was selected as one of
the first team of volunteers to fly out to Haiti in April. I had received
some very generous donations from York St John University, local
schools and
businesses,
and
contributions
from friends
and colleagues
to help to fund
this. The team
consisted of
30 people
internationally
from different
professions
and skills
background.
The group was
split into two
projects and
only 10 were
sent to the Jacmel programme, including myself.
Arriving at the airport we were immediately confronted with chaos,
fighting our way through the terminal with hundreds of faces at the
gates begging for water, food and money.
Ann Steel | Postgraduate, Counselling Supervision
6
Rubble everywhere
Haiti – One year on
E: annsteelcounselling@gmail.com
W: www.annsteel.co.uk

7. 7
The destruction was indescribable. The reality that there were still
dead bodies underneath the rubble, and feelings of grief and total
despair overwhelmed me. As we drove over the mountains the rains
started and it felt extremely dangerous driving over already severely
damaged roads. The mass deforestation and destruction of Haiti’s
natural forests resulted in a significant risk of landslides. After about
four and a half hours we arrived at Jacmel, the rains were very heavy;
water was pouring down the streets, raw sewage floated past, the
stench was terrible. Across the road were two small camps, only one
having newly donated small tents. Through a translator we visited
and talked to many of the families on the camps to try to assess their
immediate needs. We visited a local orphanage; a small boy sat on
the floor eating a miniscule portion of rice from a bowl covered with
flies whilst sat in his own urine. A small baby lay in a corner of a filthy
floor covered by insects. It was cramped, hot, and humid, the smell of
excrement and urine was overwhelming, a baby blinded by disease sat
helplessly (we learnt later that he had died soon after our visit).
We visited some of the displacement camps where we found the
people living in the most appalling inhumane conditions surrounded by
human waste and excrement. At night I could not sleep, as I listened
to the rain thinking about the families sleeping in mud and squalor.
The harrowing conditions continued to disturb me and I wondered
how this could be happening in the 21st century. I was consumed with
angst and despair, feelings which evolved throughout my experience
and have continued to stay with me since my return.
Our aim and objective was to focus on the immediate needs of the
local people. Some partnerships were formed with local projects,
some of which we hoped would be sustainable longer term. Initial
contact was made with a Counselling Service which was due to open
in May 2010 which was designed to help support both adults and
children affected by the quake. Despite having taken every precaution
to protect myself from disease, I became sick and needed to visit a
makeshift tent hospital where the conditions were extremely grim.
The lack of medicines, necessitating a drive of over three hours to five
pharmacies, left me with feelings of overwhelming guilt for taking
vital resources away from the local people. There was the additional
concern over getting any further supplies into the country, fuel
shortages causing a serious threat to getting back to the airport and
the volcanic dust cloud which had disrupted so many flights. I did not
know if I could or would ever get back to the UK and to my home and
family.
The recent outbreak of cholera and the floods has prompted a further
frenzy of media attention. Stories are once again focused on the plight
of the children and the families. The media reports sensationalising
stories of horror and death cause me great distress. Whilst there is
a need to know about these disasters in order to help receive much
needed aid money and support; do we really need to see pictures of
death and extreme suffering to understand this concept? Could this
not be seen as a violation and invasion of their human rights, their
dignity and privacy? Have all these people given permission for their
images or images of their children to be used in this way? There is a
balance between needing to report such tragedy and respect for the
individuals involved.
Since returning home I have begun to think more about the whole
concept of best ethical practice in International Volunteering in
particular in relation to disaster response. There is clearly an identified
need for some professionals with certain skills, who can offer their
time to assist in working with the local people to design programmes
to help rebuild communities. Volunteers however should enter into
these projects with some degree of caution and give thought and
consideration to the potential ethical dilemmas.
There are many organisations offering programmes which fall into
the category of what has been coined ‘voluntourism’ or aid ‘tourist’
projects, aimed more specifically at young unskilled volunteers
particularly on gap year experiences. Most of these programmes have
been designed for non-emergency response and for aiding developing
third world countries where their presence can have a positive effect
upon the community. Disaster response however, in an already
impecunious country I feel necessitates further moral considerations.
There are obvious significant problems created by going into a country
so badly in need of basic vital resources and for the volunteers to be
utilising their paucity of supplies.
I would therefore encourage anybody considering signing up to a
project to think very carefully about the potential consequences of
their involvement in such programmes and consider just how much
help they are going to be to the community and the people they are
aiming to help, and volunteer ethically and responsibly.
Tents behind collapsed buildings
Jamcel College University badly damaged

8. 8
Alumni profile Catherine Scriven | BA (Hons) Art & Design, 2008
Alumni who have recently ventured through the Quad entrance from Lord Mayor’s
Walk will no doubt have seen the stunning artwork displayed on six one metre wide
aluminium panels. The artwork entitled Alumni Abundantes 1841-2010, meaning
alumni in abundance, was specially created by York St John alumna Catherine Scriven
and depicts an artistic collection of the many York St John & Ripon alumni and staff.
This work was her first public commission of artwork and was officially unveiled on
Friday 26 March 2010. The work marks the beginning of the York St John Heritage
Trail which maps the many historic artefacts and symbols around campus that define
the University and the values it stands for.
Catherine studied in Belgium up to A Level but at the time didn’t see the long-term
career benefit of choosing art. Instead she opted to study Languages and Business
Studies in Brussels. She began her part-time studies in 2002, choosing York St John
because of the flexibility and welcoming environment she experienced. In 2008
Catherine graduated from York St John with a first class degree in Art & Design.
After graduating, Catherine was approached by a member of staff as the University
wanted artwork to be displayed in the Quad entrance based on our archives. She
sourced a lot of material at the Archive Roadshow in June 2009. At the event she
interviewed alumni from both York St John and Ripon and took advantage of the
numerous pictures and artefacts that were available, going back well over 100 years.
Following this inspiration it took Catherine over six months to complete Alumni
Abundantes 1841-2010, she is delighted by the positive response to her work.
During her time at York St John she was also awarded the University’s Start4Art prize
for outstanding achievement throughout the duration of her degree and to help
Catherine establish herself as an independent artist. Since graduating she has also
secured a residency with HAFNEY (Hospital Arts for North East Yorkshire) to produce
public work for Whitby Hospital has also displayed work in North Yorkshire Open
Studios. Catherine uses a combination of digital photography, drawing, printing and
handmade papers. In her practice she focuses on repetitive processes, and everyday
routine systems and narratives.
Catherine is currently a graduate
intern at Bar Lane Studios
(Micklegate) with five other
York St John graduates, who
are sharing a communal studio
for one year. This internship
programme has been facilitated
through a partnership between
Creative Business at York St
John and Bar Lane Studios. In
December 2010 artwork by the graduates was shown at a private viewing at Bar
Lane, held to celebrate the success of a prestigious exhibition originally held at the
opening of a new Hugo Boss store in Manchester.
To find out more about Catherine:
www.catherinescriven.co.uk | catherine.scriven@hotmail.co.uk
First class degree for Catherine
‘Red Riding Hood’
Delighted by the positive response

9. 9
Student profileGraeme Law | BA (Hons) Physical Education & Sports Coaching
Graeme Law joined York St John University in September 2009 to study
for a degree in PE & Sports Coaching. At that time few at York St
John University would be aware that he had already made his mark as
a professional footballer. His experiences to date in football illustrate
quite clearly the tremendous effort that young players have to put in to
be successful in the game.
Graeme was born in Scotland but moved to York when
he was very young. With excellent skills and a first class
attitude to the game it was not surprising that the
coaching staff at York City FC recognised his precocious
talent and from the age of 10 he joined their School
of Excellence. At the age of 11 he went to Tadcaster
Grammar School and it was from this time that he
really began to make his mark as a footballer.
Further success came his way when he was selected to
play for the York City Boys teams at Under 11 through
to Under 15 and to his credit he captained all of these
teams. He also captained the North Yorkshire and
North of England teams.
After successfully working his way through the junior
levels of football, Graeme signed professional forms
for York City FC at the age of 16. In the 2004-05
season he turned out for City on 24 occasions and
was selected as substitute for a further seven games.
Graeme’s time as a professional with York was to be
a relatively short one as changes to personnel at the
Club meant he moved back to his native Scotland to
play with Dundee. It was there that he enjoyed the
outstanding football occasion of his life when he played
in the Scottish Cup Final against Gretna at Hampden
Park, only to face the disappointment of a three goals
to one defeat.
Graeme made another move in 2006 when he joined
forces with Tamworth to play in the Conference North
league. Tamworth came top of the league in Graeme’s
third season with the club. Currently he is playing for
Stalybridge Celtic in Blue Square North and he is most
sensibly looking at his future in the game. For the past three summers
he has taken on coaching responsibilities at La Manga in Spain, the
biggest sports complex in Europe. He is now a UEFA ‘B’ Qualified
Coach. Further international experience recently came his way as
a member of the British team that competed in the World Student
Games in Beijing.
Asked which players had been the biggest influence on his career he
nominated Gordon Strachan, Paulo Maldini and Patrice Evra. All three
are first class role models for a person who seeks to become a coach
in professional football or a school teacher in physical education and
sport.
Graeme Law playing for England universities
Graeme signed professional
forms for York City
at the age of 16

10. 10
Alumni looking to enhance their management skills and advance their
careers need look no further, as York St John Business School offers
opportunities in the heart of York and online.
The first Masters in Business Administration (MBA) programme in York
was launched in September 2010. The MBA aims to develop a broad
understanding of a range of business functions and how they perform
at operational and strategic levels. There is a strong emphasis on the
application of theoretical knowledge in the workplace with students
developing, managing and implementing projects with local businesses.
The programme is ideal for people working in small and medium sized
businesses as well as larger and international organisations.
The MBA can be taken either full-time on an intensive 12-month
programme or part-time (over two to five years). There will be one
intake each year in September.
Modules include Environmentally Sustainable Business, International
Finance, Human Resource Management, Leadership and Management
Skills, International Business Strategy, International Trade and
Globalization, Managing Corporate Reputation, and Design in Business.
Christine Mortimer, Head of the MBA programme explains, ‘The
international elements of the programme enable students to develop
and deepen their understanding of the opportunities and challenges
presented by globalization – an increasingly important aspect of
today’s business world. Innovation, creativity and design are also key to
business success. That’s why we’ve introduced optional modules that
aim to develop an understanding of the management of innovation
and creativity in a commercial context, and the notion of how concepts
and design are essential but often misunderstood elements of
successful businesses.’
Alongside the new programmes, the Business School has extended its
teaching team with the appointment of five new lecturers teaching
undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Jackie Mathers, Dean of York St John Business School said, ‘I am
delighted to appoint such high calibre lecturers. Their blend of
academic research, teaching and meaningful business experience will
be a real asset to our students.’
In addition to the academic programmes, the Business School has
become a centre of the Institute of Leadership & Management
(ILM). From September 2011, they will be offering the ILM Level 5
Qualifications in Management. The ILM Level 5 Award, Certificate and
Diploma in Management are qualifications that have been specially
designed to give practising or aspiring managers a solid foundation in
their formal development in this role.
Learning opportunities through the Business School
News from the Business School
York St John launches new programmes
Languages Success
British Sign Language (BSL)
students celebrated a
100% pass rate in the latest
Signature examination results,
putting it more than 20
percentage points above the
UK average. Programme
leader Amanda Smith, whose
first language is BSL rather
than English having been born
deaf, delivers the course in
a highly engaging way using
numerous visual props which
encourages students to learn
from each other as well as qualified tutors, including a weekly ‘Sign
Café’ where students can get together to gain additional practice.
Students are particularly interested in BSL because they see it as an
important skill to have in any future career in teaching or speech and
language therapy. Equally, public health providers and local businesses
recognise the need for communicating with clients and customers
from the Deaf community.
Further information about the BSL courses available or the
weekly ‘Sign Café’ at York St John Business School is available on
E: business.school@yorksj.ac.uk T: 01904 876915.
Amanda Smith, BSL programme leader

11. 11
Events for all
Professor Roger Steare
Networking events held throughout the year will help you
share knowledge, ideas and gain access to business colleagues,
other alumni, current students and leaders of organisations in
the Yorkshire and Humber region. These events attract high
quality speakers from the UK and internationally. Here is a
selection of the upcoming events in 2011.
English Language & Linguistics
Colloquium Series
A forum in which guest lecturers, students and staff present
their work, followed by an informal discussion over dinner. A
wide variety of topics are covered from Language and the Law
to Second Language Teaching.
Contact Andrew Merrison E: a.merrison@yorksj.ac.uk
or Chris Hall E: c.hall@yorksj.ac.uk or T: 01904 876639.
Foreign Language Lecture Series
Do you enjoy listening to a language other than English?
Perhaps you want to practise your language skills, learn
something new or maybe you are far away from home and
would like to share your first language with other learners? Why
not join us at the Foreign Language Lectures?
Over 80 people have enjoyed lectures in Italian, Polish, Greek
and Spanish, along with a glass of wine and light refreshments.
Sign up to the upcoming lectures
E: foreignlanguages@yorksj.ac.uk or T: 01904 876507.
Leadership events
• The Annual Business School Lecture on Wednesday 11
May 2011 welcomes Professor Roger Steare, Corporate
Philosopher, who created the ethicability® Moral DNA test
and Kersten England, CEO of City York Council.
The event is free.
• Going Global takes place on 17 June 2011 sponsored by Yorkshire
Bank and KPMG. The Business School welcomes keynote speaker Tom
Vosa, Chief Economist and Head of Market Economics Europe at the
Yorkshire Bank. The event will be followed by workshops to discuss the
challenges of change in organisations.
• Creativity & Innovation is an event to give business leaders and
entrepreneurs the right balance of academic and corporate support
to help them incorporate creative ideas and transform them into
tangible business success. Date to be confirmed in September 2011.
• The fifth in the series, the Annual Tourism Conference takes place in
November 2011 during York Business Week. Speakers and activities for
the day will be announced soon.
York is a lovely place to visit, to do business and to study, and York St John
Business School provides people with yet another reason to choose the city.
For further information on programmes, courses or events, contact
York St John Business School, E: business.school@yorksj.ac.uk
T: 01904 876915, or visit www.yorksj.ac.uk/businessschool.
Speakers at the Tourism Conference 2010

12. 12
Students’ Union news
Campaigning!
This year promises to be another positive campaign year for the
Students’ Union. It’s the first year of our new strategic plan. Having
the plan has meant that we can gear our campaigns around the
worries that students identified in our research. This means that we are
more in touch with the needs and wants of students than ever before.
This year with the introduction of our new Academic Development
Co-ordinator, we are pushing Programme Reps like never before as well
as re-running our successful Safety of Students’ campaign.
New to this year’s agenda are campaigns such as the ‘First Year
Counts’, which encourages first years to get involved in volunteering
and engaging fully with their programme – giving them extra strings
to their bow to make them more employable upon graduation. The
welfare of our students remains the priority of the SU and we are
continuing our work on making sure our students are making good
choices around housing and their finances especially in these increasing
difficult times.
President Leigh Hankinson
BA (Hons) Sports Studies, 2010
VP Education & Welfare Katie Knowles
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science, 2009
VP Student Activities Jason Chappelhow
BA (Hons) Sports Studies, 2010
National Debt Day March
Varsity 2010 versus Teesside University (Teesside, Wednesday 13 October 2010)
It was that time of the year again when the new students had just
settled in and our sports teams were in full preparation for the BUCS
(British Universities & Colleges Sports) season ahead formally known as
BUSA. This year our annual Varsity was contested between ourselves
and Teesside University. With York St John the victorious institution
for the last three years we had every reason to go to Teesside full
of confidence in retaining the trophy. However, the day provided
something of a shock for the YSJ students. Teesside had clearly
stepped up their game and York St John surrendered to this – with
Teesside winning 15-5 in fixtures!
Although the day didn’t provide the result our students craved for, the
day and evening events in Teesside were a huge success with many
new friendships formed and bonds with Teesside University further
enhanced. With a huge loss of membership last year it was never
going to be easy; looking to the future our students are proving to be
stronger in BUCS (university leagues) as the season develops; with our
first years proving there is some real high quality talent out there. If
this trend continues then we could well be punching above our weight
again amongst the other much larger universities, as YSJ always does
– we may be small in numbers but we certainly make it up for it in
character!
Over 75 York St John students took part in the National Debt Day
march organised by the National Union of Students in November 2010
in London. They travelled down to the capital with representatives
from the University of York. For President Leigh Hankinson it was the
first time he’d taken part in a peaceful protest. He felt that the march
was an important opportunity for the Union to get student views across
as the event attracted a lot of media coverage – unfortunately, not all
of it for the right reasons. None of our students were involved in any of
the difficulties on that day.
Leigh has been engaging students in discussions about what the
government cuts could mean for them, the Union and the University.
The Union have been using different methods of engagement,
including the weekly Soap Box events to make people aware that
funding cuts can affect all
aspects of student life. It’s
sparked a lot of people’s
emotions. The Union is
working alongside the
University to plan ahead and
this is obviously going to be
an important feature of the
Union’s work this year.

13. 13
Alumni profile
Andy Winter
BA (Hons) English Studies, 2000
YSJ Students’ Union Positions: VP Education & Welfare
Executive Officer (Ripon)
Newspaper Editor
Career History
2009-onwards
General Manager, York St John Students’ Union
2004-2009
Student Activities Manager, Leeds University Union
2002-2004
Training & Development Officer, Loughborough Students’ Union
2001-2002
Student Community Action Manager, Durham University
2000-2001
VP Education & Welfare, York St John Students’ Union
My experiences as a Union Councillor and then a Sabbatical Officer
have had a massive impact on my life. When I was at school I didn’t
know such a role as General Manager of a Students’ Union existed,
never mind planning to become one. The opportunities of being
involved in the Union opened my eyes to a whole different world of
work and allowed me to experience training production and delivery,
budgeting and strategic planning and formal institutional meetings
that I wouldn’t have got elsewhere in my late teens/early twenties.
My sabbatical year was particularly important in shaping my career. If
it hadn’t been for my involvement in volunteering projects I wouldn’t
have developed the interest in volunteering which led me to my next
job at Durham University. Every step forward was based on utilising the
skills I had acquired in each role, looking at further developing myself
and allowing me to focus on future ambitions.
How has your involvement with the
Students’ Union affected your career?
We would be very interested to hear from other alumni
who volunteered or who were involved with extra-
curricular activities with the Students’ Union. We would
be interested in finding out what you have done since
completing your programme at York St John and what
impact being involved with the Union has had on your
career.
Please email: a.winter@yorksj.ac.uk
Clubs & Societies
During the last five years our clubs and societies have raised
£19,681 for charities and £28,115 for RAG.
During the last year York St John students have dedicated 19,530
hours to volunteering.
MPS Society 2010-11

14. 14
Peter Morrey | Teacher Training, 1964
I chose to come to York St John in 1961 as a mature student of 27 to
train to become a teacher because it was one of the top three teacher
training colleges in the country.
My initial memories that spring to mind are of an interview with Canon
Philip Lamb ‘Prinny’; Vice Principal Chris Chapman with his gown flying
behind him and my garret room on Nottingham Corridor. I also fondly
remember Percy Whenham’s famous annual lecture, when we all stood
in the Quad and sang him in to the tune of ‘Sweet Lass of Richmond
Hill’.
I seemed to be absorbed easily into student life, worked hard and
quickly made many friends. In my second year, I moved into digs in
Monkgate and became President of the Society of External Students. I
also joined the Boat Club, eventually being awarded my colours.
A system of staff/student relationships operated loosely between the
Senior Common Room (SCR) and the Junior Common Room but it
was totally unsatisfactory and it was felt by both sides that a proper
Students’ Union should be formed. Nominations were sought for the
major officers, a ballot was taken by the students and I became its
first President. Following this, an Executive Committee was formed
and many long and searching hours were devoted to formulating a
constitution. In points of law, we were ably helped by the members
of the SCR and when it was completed we had it drawn up on a
magnificent scroll which was then presented to the SCR to be placed
in the College archives, in an outstanding ceremony in the Quadrangle.
The Students’ Union then became solely responsible for the
administration of its funds to whom all clubs and
societies made applications and were treated fairly
and on merit so there were no arguments from any
of the student bodies.
Just before finals, the Principal asked me to
approach the Presidents of all the Student Halls
of Residence and ask if their members would be
willing to donate a sum of money annually towards
the cost of developing new buildings. They
unanimously agreed so that some of the buildings
that have benefited students over the years were
assisted by those who had gone before, and I think
of, in particular, the swimming pool.
We were the last of the all-male year and a deep
special bond existed between all Johnsmen. The
ethos of the College entered and stayed in our hearts for we were to
go out in
the land (the
‘vineyard’
as Chris
Chapman
called it) and
become the
best teachers
we could be.
I taught at
home and,
for a time in
Zambia and
saw many
changes in
education,
not all of
them for the
good but my abiding memory is that of upholding the principle which
I learned at my alma mater and being remembered with affection by
those whom I taught. So entrenched was I with all the finest traditions
that I had absorbed that my second son, born in 1968, was christened
St.John Morrey! ‘Prinny’ approved.
Alumni profile – the first Students’ Union President!
SU Executive 1964 (Peter, bottom row fifth from left)

15. 15
As president of the club my primary role is to oversee and advise
on the club’s activities. I also provide support to my committee and
members to ensure they achieve their goals. This year we have already
had successes in entering crews at BUCS Small Boats Head and BUCS
Indoor Rowing Championships.
Similarly at the York Small Boats Head. In 2011 we hope to enter a
men’s and women’s crew at London’s Head of the River in the spring
and make our debut at BUCS Regatta, with fresher and senior 8’s, along
with many local regattas in the early summer. Last year both land and
water based training developed, improving the club’s overall fitness
and consistency. We aim to hold a gruelling Easter training camp to
improve the whole club’s technique on the water, ready to make an
impression at the summer regattas.
Our primary aim this year is to develop consistent crews in both the
men’s and women’s squads ranging from senior to fresher abilities. As
a committee we share a mutual love and passion for the sport which
is driving us to achieve to the best of our abilities and support our
members. Everyone is welcome, with the right attitude anyone can
succeed.
Writing the Rowing Club History
Current Level 2 student and Rowing Club member Lloyd Frith is working
on writing the history of the Rowing Club. The Alumni Development
Office has passed on information that has previously been kindly sent
by former Rowing Club members. Should anyone else have information
they think may be relevant please email l.frith@yorksj.ac.uk or
alternatively you can post any information to the Alumni Development
Office who will pass it on to Lloyd.
Making a difference
Like so many other clubs and societies the Rowing Club does
outstanding work for charity. Last year they donated £900 to charity,
this money was raised from their annual bonfire night celebration,
attended by 300 people. £600 of this money has gone to SOS Africa,
enabling Dimpho, a girl from a township in Mafeking, to have full-time
education. The Rowing Club are supporting her education costs,
uniform, books and after school care. The Rowing Club’s Charities and
Fundraising Officer, Andrew Hall says ‘we will continue to donate this
amount every year she is at school to secure her future’.
Most recently
the club have
donated £200
to the Arc Light
Centre. Arc
Light is a charity
that provides
accommodation
and support to
homeless men
and women in
York. This money
was spent on
presents from the
homeless peoples’
Christmas wish
list, and is a
charity very close
to the University.
A Tribute from the Rowing Club to Dave Evans
Sadly in November 2010, we lost our volunteer Head Coach David
Evans. Dave had extensive rowing experience; rowing with the RAF,
putting through winning crews in Henley, rowing at Marlow – these
are just a selection of his rowing achievements. We were incredibly
lucky and honoured to have his involvement in the club. His constant
support, reliability, knowledge and experience enabled us to gain some
of our first wins for the club, and enter races, such as Head of the River
in London and the Rutherford Head. At least once a week we would
hear his shouts and catch glimpses of him cycling along the riverbank
with us – all at 6 o’clock in the
morning! (Bearing in mind he
lived 40 minutes away from the
boathouse). We never tired of his
storytelling, enthusiasm and belief
in our abilities. An inspirational
coach and loving man; David
Evans will be sorely missed. We
are all glad to have known him.
The Rowing Club also donated
£100 to The Henley Stewards
Charitable Trust in dedication
to Dave Evans, the charity of his
choosing.
The Boat Club proudly supporting SOS Africa
Dimpho’s education supported
by The Rowing Club
York St John Rowing Club 2010-11
Message from the Rowing Club President, Kathryn Honey
Dave’s constant support
will be missed

16. 16
Alumni Business success stories
Tom, Oliver and Simon
National recognition for
graduate company
In November last year West Park Media Limited, a company formed
by York St John University graduates, was featured in the Guardian
newspaper. Simon Horniblow, Oliver Harrison and Tom White all
studied Theatre, Film & Television, graduating in 2006. During their
time at York St John they were heavily involved with film making
activities associated with their programme.
West Park Media is a leading video production company, specialising in
producing high quality, innovative and informative video content. Since
its inception in January 2008, it has evolved into a well-known and
highly respected media company.
Their Royal Television Society award winning flagship project,
studentcooking.tv was designed to enhance the culinary experience
and understanding of students in the UK.
It began at Loughborough University and has been rapidly taken
on board by 20 of the UK’s leading universities. The success and
foresight of the project has won the enterprise considerable praise in
national and local publications, most recently being the subject of an
article in the Guardian’s education supplement.
Pioneering the dissemination of food related knowledge to young
people in Britain, West Park Media has built a team committed to the
advancement of kitchen-based knowledge in the UK. This passion
for food, combined with an impressive portfolio of video, has been
recognised by some of the UK’s leading culinary concerns, most
notably Mars, Dolmio sauces, British Pork Executive (BPEX), English
Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX) and Star Logic. West Park Media has
acquired a formidable reputation within the culinary and education
spheres as a company with a passion for high quality video production
and content.
West Park Media has taken a unique and progressive approach to the
power of the Internet in the diffusion of information, content and
video. Their online content is now accessible to, and viewed by, over
250,000 students in the UK. Uniting professional, entertaining and
enlightening video with expertly designed and maintained websites,
West Park Media is at the forefront of innovative, dynamic and inspiring
online media.
For more information about West Park Media visit:
www.westparkmedia.co.uk
All studied Theatre, Film & Television

17. Heather Alstead | BA Hons Design Practice, 2010
17
YSJ Connect launched
YSJ Connect is about providing
opportunities, support and
guidance to help students enhance
their CVs, explore their career
prospects and get vital experience
to prepare them for life after
university. It’s the place for them
to connect with others (with other
students, staff, employers and alumni) to make opportunities happen.
Through the site students can share an idea, project or vision with
others to help make it happen, or set up a placement with an
employer. YSJ Connect shares the experiences of current students and
graduates. We welcome you to get involved and share your stories after
graduation, to encourage and inspire.
Heather receives her award from Acorns 4 representatives
In 2010 Heather Alstead was awarded
a £1,500 SPARK Scholarship sponsored
by Acorns 4 (a group of local
fledging entrepreneurs on the Acorns
Programme at York St John). Heather,
a Design Practice graduate, was
awarded the scholarship during her
final year for her design of unique
drinks coaster which reminds elderly
people to drink the recommended
daily allowance of water.
Inspiration for the design came when
she was caring for her grandmother
and realised that she was not drinking
enough water.
Heather is currently working on testing
out the product further in nursing homes and hospitals.
Heather used the funds from the scholarship to apply for the patent
and make working prototypes for the drink reminder as well as an iron
guard (designed to stop children and adults from burning themselves).
Heather’s career plans prior to starting University were to become a
Junior Designer, but now she has started her own business her main
goal is to make life easier for people.
She is thoroughly enjoying working for herself and hopes that in the
future she will be in a position to take on a York St John University
student to help them develop their ideas.
Further information about Heather and her products can be found on
the YSJ Connect website (details below).
Acorns 4 raised nearly £5,000 for SPARK in 2009, the second £1,500
SPARK Enterprise Scholarship will soon be promoted to 2010-11 final
year students.
During this academic year funds raised by the Acorns 5 cohort have
supported six Occupational Therapy students to go on three month
placements in developing countries to work with disadvantaged
people.
Inaugural SPARK Enterprise Scholarship
winner sets up her own business
Funding opportunity for 2010 graduates
The ‘YSJ Connect Fund’ has been launched to which current
students and 2010 graduates can bid for up to £500.
Further details can be found at:
http://connect.yorksj.ac.uk/
We hope to hear from you in the future! For more information
e-mail ysjconnect@yorksj.ac.uk

18. 18
Business incubation and growth is the name of the
game for Creative Business
In the past few years the Faculty of Arts has established a Creative
Business Team responsible for graduate incubation and business facing
support services. Its four-strong team provide a range of services
for businesses in the creative industries. However, the most notable
successes this past year have been in the area of business incubation.
The Faculty was privileged to win £105,000 from the Business Link
Reserve Fund to support Bar Lane Studios in the heart of the city. Bar
Lane Studios is a social enterprise set up to support local practising
artists gain suitable studio space and the opportunity to exhibit. This
has been a great success which six York St John graduate businesses
have been able to share.
The six graduate businesses, including five fine artists and one theatre
production company, took up residence in the summer of 2010. The
five fine artists were fortunate to exhibit their work at a gallery event
curated by Ben Clowes, Creative Director of Bar Lane at the prestigious
launch of the new Hugo Boss store in Manchester. The event in
November was attended by stars such as Shay Given, Ben Thompson
and Michelle Keegan. The graduate interns’ art was shown alongside
the work of Bob Dylan, Derren Brown and Goldie. Graduate interns
Jade Blood and Matt Durrant were successful in selling pieces. Susanne
Davies’ sensational installation gained considerable interest from both a
leading car manufacturer and a London gallery.
Graduates from this programme join their counterparts at York St John’s
product design graduate incubator ‘DesignWorks’ and the Phoenix
Centre, Science City York’s Creative Digital Incubator in a business
development programme entitled ‘Raising The Bar’. This programme
has been developed and honed over many years by the CIDA Innovation
(Creative Industries Development Agency) and has provided the
businesses with fantastic propulsion forward, supported by mentors in
the Creative Business team within the Faculty.
Elsewhere on campus, the DesignWorks business incubator has for
three years now provided support for up and coming businesses such
as John Green Designs www.johngreendesigns.co.uk. The new intake
includes four engaging businesses who are showing fantastic promise
with new and innovative products such as Heather Alstead Design’s
assistive technology and Jolly Smith Design’s bar and kitchen products.
The future is bright as we look forward to the design shows this year.
The future of business incubation is exciting within the Faculty of Arts as
we help more and more graduates achieve their ambitions in creative
practice. With a strong focus on business ethics and commerciality,
the Creative Business Team support a wide range of enterprises in
the creative sector through proof of concept and regular mentoring.
Come and meet some of these businesses at our brand new Enterprise
Tuesdays networking events. For more information please contact
Creative Business on 01904 876315 or visit
www.yorksj.ac.uk/creativebusiness.
Intern success at Bar Lane for Matt Durrant
Faculty of Arts news
Deputy Dean Professor Susan Orr celebrates National
Teaching Fellowship
In September 2010 Professor Susan Orr attended an event in London to celebrate
those who had been awarded National Teaching Fellowships from the Higher Education
Academy. Susan was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in June for her contribution
to the development of teaching and learning in creative practice. Susan at the celebration event

19. 19
Royal Television Society Awards
Film & Television students from York St John scooped two awards at the Yorkshire
Royal Television Society (RTS) Student Awards, taking the top spot in two major
categories at a ceremony held at York’s Reel Cinema on 9 November 2010.
KC Suri, Chairman of Reel Cinemas UK, presented the fiction award to a team of
Level 3 students led by Edward Cooper and Rheya Brigden for their film entitled
The Sword, a dramatic film about thwarted ambition. Acclaimed documentary
maker Paul Berriff presented the best factual film award to a team of Level 2
students led by Thomas Hewett and Joe Burrows for Through the Peephole, a
documentary about the world of burlesque.
The two winning films will now be entered into the National RTS Student Awards
held in London in May 2011. The VC celebrates RTS Awards with staff and students
Students and staff community engagement
Students and staff have been particularly active in the community,
showcasing a number of exceptional projects. These include:
Shining a light – in October 2009 YSJ Design students took part in
the Illuminating York Festival, working alongside GaiaNova and OMA
International (Office for Media Arts), two companies responsible for
lighting up the City Centre between October and November. Well
known landmarks were transformed in minutes as students built up rich
patterns and pictures using various technologies. This project involved
working with children from Hempland School.
Celebrating Diwali – in October 2009 a group of Fine Art and
Performance students created a stunning display of light through an
uplifting lantern procession to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu and Sikh
festival of light. The event involved a choreographed 20 minute
procession of light on the city walls adjacent to Lord Mayor’s Walk.
Celebrating York’s city walls – in March 2010 40 metres of specially
designed silk decorated the historic city walls marking the culmination
of an art project between York St John and local school children. This
project was supported by Arts Council England, York St John and
Aimhigher.
Challenging Stereotypes – in autumn 2010 50 students from Norton
College took part in a summer school to design posters challenging
commonly held misconceptions of young people. The visiting students
were able to work with Faculty of Arts staff, YSJ Graphic Designer and
other professional graphic designers.
Students illuminate York

20. 20
On 1 June 2010 Professor David Fleming took up his role as Vice
Chancellor of York St John University. David comes to York St John with
an outstanding track record in Higher Education.
He has also worked for a number of years in professional practice in the
commercial sector before entering education.
Professor Fleming was previously Deputy Vice Chancellor at the
University of Sunderland, where he was responsible for academic
quality, taught and research programmes, research, technology
transfer and outreach as well as recruitment, college partnerships and
international development. Prior to Sunderland David held the position
of Dean of a School at Northumbria University and Principal Lecturer
at Nottingham Trent University. He has a first class degree in Urban
Land Economics, a Postgraduate Diploma, an MBA and a Doctorate of
Business Administration. He is also a fellow of the Royal Institution of
Chartered Surveyors.
During the
summer David
spent time
getting to know
staff across the
campus and
meeting key
partners in York
and the wider
region. He
listened to views
from a wide
variety of staff to
establish how the
University could
continue to move
forward and gain further successes.
Professor Fleming has also joined the Board of Directors at Science
City York. The move formalises the close links built over many years
between York St John University and Science City York. It reinforces
the commitment between Science City York shareholders, City of York
Council and the University of York, to unite the City in its bid to develop
a thriving knowledge economy for York.
Science City York Chief Executive, Professor Nicola Spence added,
‘David’s extended involvement in Science City York brings additional
skills, vision and leadership to an already exceptional top-level team and
helps ensure a more inclusive approach to supporting and growing the
city’s economic, social and cultural ambitions. We look forward to a
strong, innovative and productive relationship.’
First Initiative to boost YSJ Clubs and Societies
Professor Fleming has recognised the important role that Student clubs
and societies play at the University by establishing a £50,000 Vice
Chancellor Initiative to help fund their activities. David was instantly
aware of the proud tradition within the clubs and societies and the role
they play not just at YSJ, but in the community. In the last five years
fundraising by clubs and societies has reached nearly £50,000 and in
the last year students have volunteered 19,530 hours to support a wide
range of projects.
Clubs and societies will benefit from dedicated space for honour
boards and trophy cabinets to celebrate outstanding achievements;
equipment for cheerleaders; lighting and staging rigs; refurbishment
and equipment for the rowing club and a £5,000 coaching fund.
In December York St John Students’ Union hosted a special celebration
to thank David for his support. At the event Professor Fleming received
a York St John sports shirt signed by representatives from each club
and society in recognition of his commitment to their continued
development.
York St John welcomes its new Vice Chancellor
Professor Fleming, new Vice Chancellor
Professor Fleming with Professor Spence, Science City York
Vice Chancellor receives a signed top from clubs and societies

21. 21
Professor David Fleming was inaugurated at a formal ceremony held in
York Minster on Tuesday 2 November, in front of an audience of staff,
students, alumni, guests and professional partners of the University.
A procession made up of staff and students from the University,
members of York’s civic party and the Chancellor of York St John
University, The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dr John Sentamu
walked down historic Stonegate from the Mansion House to York
Minster. The inauguration ceremony included musical performances,
symbolic gift giving and concluded with dramatic African drumming
accompanying the procession leaving York Minster.
In his inaugural speech Professor Fleming said:
‘This has been a fantastic event for York St John University students,
staff and friends. We all have a lot of pride in York St John and I
feel enormously privileged to be a part of it. I believe that this is a
remarkable University in the heart of a remarkable city. The event
marks the start of an ambitious period which will establish York St John
as a leading, internationally recognised, teaching led University.’
Welcoming Professor Fleming to the University, The Most Reverend and
Right Honourable Dr John Sentamu said:
‘I warmly welcome Professor David Fleming to his new role as the Vice
Chancellor of York St John University. He brings a wealth of experience
to the University and his enthusiasm is a great asset to the York St John
community. I am delighted that he is joining us.’
Professor Fleming Inauguration Ceremony
The Procession walks through York
The Procession arrives at the Minster
Professor Fleming addresses the audience
Dr Sentamu and Professor Fleming join the drummers!

22. 22
3rd International Conference on Peace and Reconciliation in Seoul
In November 2010 the Theology & Religious Studies section at York St
John University and Youngnak Presbyterian Church co-organised the 3rd
International Conference on Peace and Reconciliation in Seoul on the
theme of ‘Building Communities of Reconciliation’. Two hundred and
thirty people from more than 60 countries took part in the conference:
half of them church leaders.
Leading academics and theologians who took part included Revd
Michael Lapsley, Director of the Institute for Healing of Memories,
South Africa; Revd Dr Setri Nyomi, General Secretary of the World
Communion of Reformed Churches; Professor Esther Mombo, Deputy
Vice-Chancellor of St Paul’s University, Kenya; Very Revd Professor Iain
Torrance, President of Princeton Seminary; and Professor Miroslav
Volf, Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School. The case studies
of reconciliation examined included South Africa, Uganda, Northern
Ireland and India.
The public meetings in the evening attracted a further 2,000 people.
They were a combined service of worship, praise, prayers, sermons and
lectures, and the morning plenary sessions were more academic in
nature with questions and answers. The afternoon panel sessions were
divided into three areas:
• In-depth reflections on the life and teaching of Rev Kyung-Chik Han
• Perspectives on the relationship of North and South Korea
• Christian theologies of peace and reconciliation.
There were nearly 60 panel presentations during the conference – and
the presenters were all prominent scholars in their own fields. The
proceedings are being published in three volumes.
The series has had a particular concern for peace on the Korean
Peninsula – the subject of more than usual attention this year due to
several outbreaks of violence between North and South. This time the
event was hosted by the church in Seoul and included a visit to the
Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). It was also an opportunity to remember the
work of Rev Han Kyung-Chik, founder of Youngnak Church and himself
a refugee from the North, on the 10th anniversary of his passing.
Rev Han was a leading churchman who was awarded the Templeton
Prize for Religion in 1992. Among the reasons for this distinction
was his founding of the nationwide Sharing Rice Movement in which
housewives set aside an extra cup of rice every time they cook and the
collection is then sent to help those suffering food shortages in the
North.
In terms of organisation, the unique feature of the conference was the
partnership between academy and church. Many participants have
said that the mutual interaction has been very beneficial. Organising
this conference has been a rewarding experience. Not only do the
two parties have different priorities and expectations as organisations,
but also the team members of the two organisations are from very
different cultures, which made it doubly challenging.
The International Conference on Peace and Reconciliation was
established in 2006 to provide a platform for both scholars and
practitioners in the fields of peace and reconciliation. The nature of
the conference is interdisciplinary but perspectives from theology and
religious studies are particularly to the fore. Previous themes were: ‘In
Search of Shared Identity: The Korean Peninsula and Other Contexts’
(2006; at YSJU) and ‘Embracing the Displaced: Shaping Theories and
Practices for a Sustainable Peace’ (2009; at UCLA, USA).
Student exchange trip to PCTS (Presbyterian
College and Theological Seminary) Seoul, Korea
September 2010
In September 2010 Susan Yore took a group of eight Level 3 Theology
& Religious Studies students on an exchange trip to Seoul, South Korea,
where they were hosted by staff and students of the PCTS (Presbyterian
College and Theological Seminary). PCTS has a beautiful campus at the
far edges of the city at the foot of A-Cha Mountain with spectacular
views of the Han River. The students, Rachel Southwell, Hannah Clark,
Melissa Powell, Joy Wong, Sarah Jackson, Nicole Veitch, Kirsty Wilson,
Jessica Rutter, and Susan spent four busy weeks experiencing the
Korean culture and learning about the history and development of
Christianity in Korea.
Learning experiences included weekly visits to different Presbyterian
churches, featuring a diverse range of worship styles. Contrasting a
mega church where a charismatic pastor led a gathering of thousands
of exuberant young Koreans in an emotionally charged worship service
were more sedate services using traditional musical instruments in
smaller communal churches.
Faculty of Education & Theology news
A packed conference in Seoul

23. 23
In Seoul the group visited the regular tourist sites of The Demilitarized
Zone and the Seoul Tower as well as Royal Palaces, Shrines and the
National Museum, learning about the role that Confucianism, Buddhism
and indigenous religions have played in the spirituality of Korea. They
heard about the great sadness that many Koreans feel about the divide
and continued hostilities between North and South Korea, praying for
reunification.
On-campus specialised lectures helped the participants to understand
the various stages of how Christianity first came to Korea and
acculturated into the area. They also took part in enjoyable English
classes in PCTS, where many new friendships were made. Students
described the visit as ‘a chance of a lifetime’ and ‘an invaluable
experience that helped them learn a completely different culture to
their own’.
York St John student celebrations in Nairobi
On 5 October 2010, 28 York St John postgraduate students from
five Nairobi universities received their certificates from Deputy Vice
Chancellor, Professor David Maughan Brown. The event was held at
Strathmore University, the host Kenyan university, and was followed by
a reception. The programme for the Kenyan lecturers was run by York
St John, funded by DfID (Department for International Development)
and managed by the British Council. The project aimed to bring about
change and improvement in teaching and learning in Higher Education
in Kenya. To put the icing on the cake, the lecturers also received a
certificate from the HEA and have earned the right to call themselves
Fellows of the HEA.
New training scheme for York governors
York St John University has joined forces with City of York Council
to give York’s school governors access to a brand new training and
development scheme.
From September 2010, all governors and governing bodies have been
able to choose from a range of training, including face-to-face and
online options. Working in partnership with City of York Council, the
training gives governors the opportunity to apply for their learning
to be accredited by York St John and work towards a Foundation
Certificate in School Governance.
Key areas of training include: The role of the School Governors; The
role of the Clerk to the Governors; Leading the Governing Body; and
School Improvement. The training has been developed in response to
the increasingly demanding role of governors and the Education White
Paper Your child, your schools, our future: building a 21st century
schools system.
The partnership activity has been supported by Higher York; an existing
and innovative partnership between Askham Bryan College, the
University of York, York College, York St John University, Craven College
and City of York Council.
Governors who choose for their learning to be accredited by the
University will become students of the University.
For further information on this scheme please contact
Katie Simpson:
E: k.simpson@yorksj.ac.uk
T: 01904 876255
YSJ students experience the chance of a lifetime
Celebrations at Strathmore University
Professor Maughan Brown signs MOU

24. 24
Bella Hardy was named as the inaugural winner of the York St John
‘Alum of the Year’ in 2009. Since graduating Bella has become one
of the UK’s foremost young folk performers, highly praised for her
performances and debut recordings. Bella, who studied English
Literature (2002-5), is an acclaimed folk singer, twice nominated in
the BBC Folk Awards 2008. She launched her debut solo album Night
Visiting in 2007 to great critical praise. Bella has now established
herself as one of the finest young folk acts, singing unaccompanied
ballads, or accompanying her highly distinctive voice with her own
fiddle accompaniment. In July 2008 Bella opened the BBC Proms
concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Bella’s second album In The Shadow
of Mountains was released in 2009.
A panel at York St John chose Bella for her contribution to music at
a national level, raising the profile of folk music and her personal
accomplishment in music. She received a cheque for £250 as well
as her Alum of the Year award at the SPARK Celebration in March
2010. Bella was nominated by York St John University lecturers Gweno
Williams and Roger Clark.
Bella’s third album Songs Lost and Stolen is due to be released on 18
April 2011 and features 12 new songs she has written and performed
and also features other artists.
For more information about Bella please visit
her website www.bellahardy.com
Alum of the year
Could this be you for 2010?
If you would like to nominate yourself or a
fellow alum for the 2010 Alum of the Year
please e-mail alumni@yorksj.ac.uk or post
your application to the Alumni Development
Office at the University. All you need to do
is send a written testimonial stating why
you believe you/fellow alum deserves to
be named for this award based on their
achievements during 2010.
This could be for:
• Entrepreneurial activities
• Voluntary work undertaken
• Sporting excellence
• Outstanding career achievement
• Publishing or performing acclaim
The closing date for applications is 31 May
2011. The application should be no more
than 500 words.
Alumni from York St John or Ripon can now nominate themselves or a fellow alum for the
accolade of the Alum of the Year 2010.
Bella celebrates with her nominees, Gweno and Roger
Bella’s latest album – out in AprilBella’s latest album – out in April

25. 25
Members of the Graduation Circle 2009
The following students kindly made a gift or were honoured by a gift in their name during the 2009 graduation ceremonies:
Graduation 2010
Beryl Adamson
Joe Akrigg
Sherene Almond
Jennifer Anderton
Pamela Armstrong
Susan Atkinson
Victoria Atkinson
Anisah Bari
Daniel Barry
Jayne Bickerton
Matthew Brear
Richard Brien
Margaret Brocklehurst
Patricia Brook
Sally Buck
Helen Burke
Katie Carr
Peter Clancy
Rachel Cook
Nicola Coope
Michael Cowling
Scott Davis
Charlotte Downes
Elizabeth Downing
John Edwards
Susan Everard
Caroline Fahy
Ceri Frank
Amy French
Catherine Gill
Kirsty Goodwin
Sarah Griffiths
Emma Hall
Scott Hall
Elizabeth Harmer
Harold Heller
Ashlie Horsman
Lisa Hughes
Sarah Jackson
Annemarie Jarrett
Simon Johnson
Jo Lightowler
Claire Lindley
Deborah Manton
Lynne Mason
Theresa Mason
Lucy Merritt
Gary Milner
Sarah Morgan
Frances Murray
Carolyn Nattrass
James Nunns
Catherine O’Donnell
Christine Oldfield
Elizabeth Pacey
Sam Parker
John Peacock
Jane Perkins
Tanya Pizl
Wendy Popple
Donna Potts
David Pynn
Vicki Render
Susan Reynard
Jeanette Roddy
Clare Rogers
Eleanor Rowling
Michelle Rundle
Sally Scales
Helen Schofield
Claire Sellers
Barbara Sim
Jane Smith
Sophie Sowerby
Phil Stead
Sean Taylor
Laura Turton
Bethany Williams
Jonathan Wills
Jordan Woodcock
Daniel Woods
Jonathan Wylie
Nicola Wynn
We would like to thank all alumni and family who have made a
donation to commemorate students graduating over the last few
years. Your donations have gone towards helping future generations
of students attend York St John and have opportunities that would
otherwise not have been possible. We are still receiving gifts from the
2010 graduation ceremonies; therefore, we will be running a feature on
those who have given graduation gifts in the next donor newsletter.
Life More Abundant
This updated and extensively revised history book on
the Institution written by former Principal, Professor
Gordon McGregor, is the definitive history of the
Institution at which you studied. The new book
includes all the original chapters along with new
chapters, new photographs and a new foreword from
the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu. The book
is a detailed history of both Ripon and York St John
and puts the Institution’s achievement of University
title in the broader context of both the history of the
Colleges, its people and government educational
policy.
York St John alumnus Bob Russell (1953-6) says,
‘This is a book which provides former students with
the assurance that York St John in still very much a
place of “life abundant”, and future students with
encouragement that here is the place to be – a place
of wisdom, humanity and good humour.’
The book is priced £20 (hardback) or £10 (paperback),
if you would like to order a copy please forward a
cheque made payable to ‘York St John University’ to
the Alumni Development Office and we will send you
a copy (free p&p).
YSJ Graduation Circle 2009
Professor McGregor signing copies of his book

26. 26
James Caan receives Honorary Doctorate from York St John
James Caan, one of the investors in the successful BBC series ‘Dragons’
Den’, was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration by
our Chancellor at the ceremony held on Thursday 18 November 2010.
James received his Honorary Degree in recognition of his success as an
entrepreneur and business leader, and for his generosity in using his
experience to advise other businesses and entrepreneurs, especially
those from ethnic minority backgrounds. James was sponsored by
Diana Wetherell Terry, Deputy Dean of the Business School.
James spent his childhood in London’s Brick Lane, after entering the
UK as a Pakistani immigrant when he was two years old. In his youth,
James worked for his father, who ran a business making leather jackets.
He left school at 16 with no formal qualifications and left the family
home shortly afterwards to pursue his ambition of founding a business.
James worked in the recruitment industry for a number of years before
deciding to go it alone and set up his own recruitment company. In
1985 he founded the executive head-hunting firm Alexander Mann
which started life as a specialist financial services recruitment company,
trading from a tiny broom cupboard in the West End of London. The
finance for this ambitious venture came from James’ draw down facility
on his newly acquired Gold Barclaycard.
James spent seven years at the forefront of the business, taking it from
strength to strength whilst competitors struggled in the recession of
the late 1980s and early 1990s. In 1992 and with a successful business
model in operation, James took a backseat to concentrate on other
business interests. By 2002 Alexander Mann was operating across
Europe, Australia and Asia with an annual turnover of £130 million. It
was at this point that James decided to sell his majority share in the
business. In 2005, James established Hamilton Bradshaw, a London-
based private equity company which specialises in buy-outs, venture
capital, turnarounds and real estate investments in the UK. It currently
manages 41 companies. James’ shrewd business acumen has enabled
him to seize opportunities such as company buy-outs and launch
further specialist companies under the Hamilton Bradshaw brand.
In addition to his financial ventures, James devotes considerable time to
government and advisory roles. As Chair of the Ethnic Minority Business
Task Force, James helps stimulate growth amongst the Black, Asian
and Minority Ethnic business based in the UK. The Task Force currently
supports over 280,000 businesses, which cumulatively contribute in
excess of £20 billion a year to the UK economy.
James is committed to the development of talent and, despite having
received no formal business training in his early life, he has been
recognised for his entrepreneurial flair and business acumen. IIn 2003
he also graduated from the Advanced Management Programme at
Harvard Business School, a prestigious programme which develops the
talent of the very best in business.
Away from the limelight, James holds many ambassadorial charity roles.
In 2006, the James Caan Foundation (JCF) was set up to fundamentally
assist educating some of the six million children in Pakistan currently
not enrolled in schools. Furthermore, the James Caan Foundation
supports charities in the UK, with initiatives ranging from cancer care
to providing equal opportunities for youth. It also seeks to promote
greater awareness for the developing world.
James is passionate about helping the millions affected by the recent
devastating floods in Pakistan. With nearly 20 million people affected,
thousands of lives lost and diseases spreading rapidly through an area
the size of Britain, this disaster have become the priority of the James
Caan Foundation. As someone with a humanitarian conscience, James
flew out to Pakistan to deliver his own aid and to meet with various
aid agencies on the ground, to understand the challenges facing them
and the remarkable work that they do. James is committed to getting
people’s lives back on track as soon as possible. As such, the James
Caan Foundation is leading a programme to rebuild communities, from
selecting a village, to building houses, schools and hospitals.
Diana Wetherell Terry, who nominated James, said ‘my colleagues from
York St John Business School and I are delighted that James has agreed
to accept this honour, be associated with the Business School, and to
promote and be an ambassador for our entrepreneurial activity. It was
an honour to present an individual who has achieved incredible success
as an entrepreneur and business leader, and to recognise his generosity
in using his experience to advise other businesses and entrepreneurs,
especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds.’
Graduation 2010
James Caan with Diana Wetherell Terry

27. 27
Each year a number of prizes are awarded
during graduation to outstanding students.
The C&B Rouse Prize recognises outstanding
contributions to the University and community
life. In 2010 this prize was won by Simon
Kumar following a number of endorsements by
York St John staff.
Simon served in the Royal Air Force Regiment
for a number of years before coming to York
St John. Having not studied full-time for over
10 years he chose York St John as it not only
offered the degree he wanted but it has a
reputation for supporting mature students. His
younger brother had graduated from the same
course some three years before, and is currently
a Physical Education teacher.
During his time at York St John he was the
Student Faculty Representative for Health & Life
Sciences and then went on to form a disability
sports club – York St John Inclusive Activity
Club. The club began to evolve following a moment of inspiration
after Simon attended a Special Olympics open day in York in 2008.
As a Sports Studies student he saw the need for more local disability
sporting opportunities.
‘Using the knowledge gained from my degree and my growing network
of contacts, I began to explore the concept of establishing a new
disability sports club within York for its residents. With the help of the
University and the City of York Council,
this idea became a reality and is growing
into a solid club structure, run on a solely
voluntary basis. In 2010, 30 volunteers
were recruited ranging from fellow
Sports students to York College students.
Incorporated within this growth has been
the establishment of a Goalball branch of
the club. Goalball is a visually impaired
Paralympic sport.
Since leaving York St John, Simon has been
working for the City of York Council as
their Disability Sport and Physical Activity
Officer for Adults. Simon says, ‘I find this
job immensely rewarding on many levels.
Since my appointment, I have helped set
up and now manage a York
Vikings Wheelchair Basketball team, which practices within York St
John University’s sports hall. This, along with the York St John Inclusive
Activity Club, has allowed for on-going links with the University to be
maintained.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank York St John for its
continued support, I could not have wished for a better degree
experience.’
Prize winner Simon Kumar
C&B Rouse Prize winner Simon Kumar | BA (Hons) Sports Studies, 2010
YSJ Inclusive Activity Team

28. 28
Adam Seymour |
BA (Hons) History, 2005
In 2007 I travelled to Lusaka, Zambia to work with Sport in
Action (SIA) for four and a half months. SIA is a non-government
organisation which focuses on helping to educate and break
down barriers in regards to HIV/AIDS. My role was to organise and
co-ordinate various sports leaders to ensure children and adults
are active and to give education workshops. In effect, sport was
a mediator for more important and useful messages. Sport in
Action’s aim is to improve people’s quality of life through sport and
recreational activities. Formed in 1999, Sport in Action has been
working towards an active, healthy and better quality of living
for all.
SIA target groups which include orphans and vulnerable children,
disabled youths, men and women. Some of the projects include youth
empowerment through sport (school sport, and HIV and AIDS), the
empowerment of women through sport and support networks for
those living with HIV.
Estimates suggest that in Zambia alone, 16% of the population is
HIV positive. Kalingalinga Clinic is part of the Zambian National Anti-
RetroViral treatment Support Programme (ZNARVS), which SIA is proud
to help and support.
For 12 months prior to my involvement, SIA Peer Leader Andison
Nkhoma had been conducting sport sessions in Kalingalinga for those
living with HIV. For two months, I assisted and helped facilitate sport
lessons with Andison at the Kalingalinga Support Group. Our sessions
included group discussions, which occur after each sport session.
We played a variety of sports including football, netball, volleyball
and cricket - these help provide a healthier and active lifestyle. The
equipment was provided by Sport in Action.
Finding out that you have HIV can be scary and overwhelming
(especially if you are young). In Kalingalinga there is help; Sport in
Action helps those living with the virus to manage the mental and
physical implications of their situation.
The main aim was to provide those affected by HIV with a healthier
lifestyle and physiological support through the medium of sport.
The Support Group also provided a sense of belonging within the
community, as sport provides an opportunity for those affected by HIV
to come together.
All the participants involved at Kalingalinga have the HIV virus, but
thanks to ARVs (antiretroviral drugs) many of them have very fit and
active lifestyles. The introduction of antiretroviral drugs has made
AIDS a more manageable illness. It is vital that those infected with
HIV receive not only the medication, but also emotional support.
Emotional and physical issues concerning the ARVs are discussed within
the Kalingalinga Support Group.
ARVs are very effective and help prolong life as they freeze the virus.
Nevertheless, it is equally important for those infected with HIV to
have a balanced diet and participate in physical recreation. Sport can
increase life expectancy but, more importantly, it provides a boost, as
those infected are able to talk openly about HIV and AIDS and support
one-another in dealing with their concerns or worries.
Alumni Profile

29. 29
People living in Zambia with HIV face many everyday challenges,
physically and mentally. One of the many problems is that people in
the community fail to fully understand what HIV is and are therefore
scared of those with the virus. Stigma and prejudice from others in
the community is sadly, if predictably, common. Nevertheless, through
Sport in Action, barriers are beginning to fall and people are starting to
understand this condition.
The Support Group provides a second network to those who remain in
contact with their family and friends, but for others the group is their
only source of support. In April 2007, the Kalingalinga Support Group
participated in a 12km run designed to raise awareness of ARVs and
VCTs (Voluntary Counselling Testing). Peer Leader Andison and I took
part representing Sport in Action. After the run, we discussed issues
concerning the fight against HIV and ways of educating the public with
the former Minister of Health for Zambia, Mrs Angela Cifire.
More importantly, it was fantastic to see the involvement of most
of the members from Kalingalinga Support Group. By taking part,
the group publicly proclaimed their status to the whole of Lusaka.
Arguably, it is only through sport that this could be achieved. This was
an enormous step for those affected in accepting their HIV status, and
demonstrating that although they have HIV, they can still have a normal
and healthy life like any other person.
The Support Group at Kalingalinga Health Clinic is a happy, vibrant
and healthy group of people. The Support Group has developed in
confidence and fitness through the medium of sport and the adoption
of healthier lifestyles.
The group is passing on to their respective communities the knowledge
they have gained about the dangers of HIV. The two months I spent in
Lusaka were an unbelievable experience. It was truly inspirational for
me to work with the people of Kalingalinga Support Group. They are
the most courageous people I have ever met; they openly declare their
HIV status for the whole community to know. By declaring their status
they encourage others to take a VCT, they also show that even if you
have contracted the virus you can still live a healthy and long life.
Thank you to the members from Kalingalinga Support Group who
participated in the making of this article, you are a credit to yourselves.
In addition, I would like to thank my colleagues at Sport in Action, who
made it possible for me to conduct this work.
If you would like more information about the Kalingalinga Support
Group and the work Sport in Action is conducting, please contact us at
the following address: clementchileshe@gmail.com
Graduation 2010
To find out more about Sport
in Action visit
www.sportinaction.org.zm/index.htm
Adam with former Zambia Health Minister, Africa
Adam taking part in the 12km run

30. Marion Yates has taken over from Dr David Moulds who retired in July 2010, after
working at York St John for 30 years! Marion started as Head of the International
Language and Short Course Unit 14 years ago. The Unit comprised a small attic
room, where she worked with one administrator and a shelf of about 15 books. Over
the years, the team grew and the English Language activity at the University now
brings in around 600 international students per year on a variety of courses from 43
different countries. The role has involved frequent international travel, and a special
responsibility for recruitment and partner development in China and Pakistan, where
Marion feels privileged to have many professional contacts and friends.
Taking on the role of Director presents new challenges, not least the challenge
of delivering 1,000 full time international students on campus in the next three
years. However, Marion is confident that her extremely dedicated team will fulfil the
University’s ambition. Marion is delighted to see the development of our alumni
network across the globe and especially the founding of new alumni branches and
associations.
International news
30
New Director of YSJ
International, Marion Yates
New Director of YSJ International
The English Language provision within York St John International has
been cited as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ alongside some of Britain’s
leading language schools, according to the sector’s most widely read
publication, the EL Gazette (English Language Gazette). The EL Gazette
carried out the research on the publishable statements of all schools
accredited by the British Council. Findings are based on British Council
inspectors’ points of excellence reports and rate a wide spectrum of
English language teaching provision. York St John International received
special praise for its premises, teachers’ qualifications and aspects of
general management, teaching and welfare.
The English Language department within York St John International
employs 21 teaching staff and sees more than 550 students enrol on
a variety of language programmes each year. These students study at
York St John for periods ranging from two weeks to over 12 months
and many go on to study at degree level or onto further training in
their chosen profession.
Successful globalisation conference hosted at YSJ
York St John International – a Centre of Excellence
International Foundation students from York St John, Leeds
Metropolitan and Teesside universities met for a conference at
York St John in January 2011, on the theme of ‘Globalisation’.
This highly successful event involved plenary sessions and group
presentations by students.
International Foundation
student conference

31. 31
Very entertaining first meeting for Kenya branch
On 5 October 2010, after students from Kenya were awarded their postgraduate certificates at
Strathmore University, the Kenyan Alumni Society was launched in the presence of Professor David
Maughan Brown and Dr Mike Calvert. This initiative was designed to maintain strong links with the
students and to provide a means by which they can meet, share and support each other in their
work in Kenya. There are already a large number of students and past students in Kenya to add to
those who are studying in the UK.
In January 2011 Dr Mike Calvert travelled to Kenya to attend the first opportunity for members
of the Kenyan branch to meet socially. The venue was the Safari Park Hotel, an upmarket hotel
on the outskirts of Nairobi. The society members were treated to a barbecue dinner and floor
show. The barbecue was no ordinary affair: chicken, beef, pork, lamb and goat were followed
by camel, ostrich and . . . crocodile all with their own sauces to ease
digestion!
The entertainment was provided by the Safari Cats, a famous troupe
of dancers and acrobats who produced a dazzling display of local
dances and the most amazing routines. It is accurately described as
a kaleidoscope of colour, acrobatics and raw excitement. The event
was organised by Kenya Branch local secretary Vitalis Rugie, a former
MA Leadership & Management student with the help of Dr Abel Kinoti
of Catholic University of Eastern Africa, a regular at the Safari Park.
The group expressed their thanks to the organisers of this event and
eagerly look forward to the next event in April 2011.
Kenya Branch
New international alumni groups formed
The Sri Lanka Association was formed in April 2010 with a strong
emphasis on supporting other students and providing opportunities
and networking post-graduation. As internationally dispersed
professionals, the group is looking to support various communities
throughout the world in terms of education, training and knowledge
sharing.
Their objectives are to:
• Promote Sri Lankan culture and new cultural opportunities
• Share their learning experiences of York St John with prospective
students from Sri Lanka
• Welcome new international students and provide support and
advice networks in terms of accommodation, job opportunities, and
adapting to a new culture
• Knowledge sharing and professional networking between group
members, other institutions and links in Sri Lanka
The group currently has an informal set-up and new members from
any nationality are always welcome. During 2010 the association held
a number of events including Sri Lankan New Year Celebrations (April),
a Friendship Cricket match v YSJ Pakistani students (May), Careers and
information sharing seminar (September) and a Christmas Party in
December at York St John. Sri Lankan Association members will be
giving a seminar during International Week on Friday 25 March.
York St John also has international branches in Tokyo and Osaka. If you
would like to join any of our alumni branches or for further information
please E: alumni@yorksj.ac.uk.
Sri Lanka Association
Sri Lanka Association celebrate Christmas at YSJ

32. 32
‘Curse you, Toots, all my life I wanted to be a
famous author, what have I got – a famous dog!’
(Eric Knight)
Greg Christie who has been studying part-time at York St John since
2002, is often referred to as ‘Lassie man’ by staff and students for
his love of the life and work of Eric Knight – the author of the Lassie
novels. It was Greg’s interest in Eric Knight’s work that paved the way
for his journey to York St John. His research began in 1997, just after
his neurosurgeon got him back on his feet after being bed bound for
18 months. He recalls his late wife Elaine bought him ‘Sam Small the
Flying Yorkshireman’ when he was laid up. The comic prose novella
in Yorkshire dialect was written in 1937. On the cover it said ‘this book
written by Lassie author Eric Knight was produced when the author
was far away from home and feeling very lonely’. At the time Greg
believed Lassie was American but after further research he learnt that
a Yorkshireman created what he refers to as ‘the most enduring literary
heroine’.
After four years of researching what was an unexplored field and that
deciding that he wanted to write Eric’s life story it dawned on him that
he had no qualifications. So Greg enrolled at York St John to develop
his skills further.
When Greg started his studies, he remembers feeling both thrilled
and terrified, anxious about how he would cope with the work, his
disability and being a mature student. After thinking he wouldn’t last
six months he soon realised how encouraging and supportive staff
and fellow students were. Greg’s suggestions on how the institution
could support the transition mature students make coming back into
education after many years out, were soon taken on board by the
University. Greg would often speak to prospective students, enthusing
them with what they could accomplish here at York St John University.
In 2005 Greg was the winner of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust
Literature Fellowship to Yale University. Then, in October 2010 Greg
was invited to New Mexico to give a talk on Eric Knight at the Hurd
Ranch & Gallery, owned by the Hurd dynasty of artists (their father Peter
Hurd was a very close friend of Eric). As Eric had written parts of three
of his best sellers at the Hurd Ranch, Peter’s son Michael thought it
would be a great way to honour both his father and Eric. Innovatively
Greg contacted his associates in other parts of the US and offered to
give lectures to students and academics to give the trip even more
meaning.
To be able to honour a growing number of commitments Greg had to
raise funds from a variety of sources. These included the Knight family
in the US, Leeds Philosophical & Historical Society and also former
York St John’s Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Stuart Billingham. Greg’s
American dream was about to commence!
Greg follows his hero’s footsteps
Greg Christie | BA (Hons) English Literature
Former Pro Vice Chancellor, Stuart Billingham
supported Greg’s American dream