Fireside chat in San Francisco 2026

Members of the College community and their guests attended a fireside chat with Baroness Amos LG CH PC, Master of University College, Oxford and Kevin Hartz (1992, History) followed by a cocktail reception generously hosted at the home of Kevin Hartz in San Francisco on 10 September 2026.

John McHugh (2023, Politics) has kindly written the following report of the event.

On Thursday, 10 September, Kevin Hartz (1992, History) and Julia Hartz generously opened their San Francisco home to Univ Old Members and guests for an evening with Baroness Amos. In a fireside chat, the Baroness moderated an engaging discussion with Mr. Hartz about recent technological advances. Guests were treated to the latest views of a renowned entrepreneur, technology investor, and internet pioneer on topics of profound importance.

Throughout the reception, it was striking to see how broadly the Univ community is involved in defining the technologies of the future. So many attendees’ professional lives touched, or were touched by, the matters discussed. This gave the gathering a special sense of adding to the College’s history of contribution in this field.

Old Members across generations also told stories of how their time at Univ shaped the paths their lives have taken. Those whose years at Oxford overlapped were especially glad to reconnect and reminisce about the formative experiences they shared. At the evening’s close, guests pledged to stay in touch, reflecting both the camaraderie among Old Members and their appreciation for their alma mater.

Guests extend their warmest thanks to the Hartz family for hosting this remarkable evening and to the Baroness for convening it. Special thanks are also due to the Development Office for thoughtfully curating these events. Alumni interested in building on the momentum from the Baroness’s American tour are encouraged to contact the College about ways to stay connected.

If you wish to get in touch with the University College Development and Alumni Relations Office, please email development@univ.ox.ac.uk.