775 Univ Society London Dinner

Baroness Valerie Amos and Ambassador Uran Ferizi

Univ Old Members and friends, current students, academics and staff attended the 775 Univ Society London Dinner, held on the 23 November 2024 at the Royal Automobile Club (RAC), Pall Mall.

This year’s guest speaker was Univ Old Member, Ambassador Uran Ferizi (2003, MMaths), the Albanian Ambassador to the UK and Ireland.

Dr Sylvana Hassanieh (2018, DPhil Cancer Genomics), Associate Director of Translational Medicine at AstraZeneca UK, has kindly provided the following report:

Univ 775 London Dinner – Sylvana Hassenieh

I had the privilege of attending the Univ 775 London dinner on 23 November, held at the prestigious Royal Automobile Club. The evening was a celebration of Univ’s remarkable 775 years of excellence in education and its lasting legacy as a cornerstone of academic and cultural achievement at Oxford. The college has nurtured countless luminaries, contributing to its rich legacy and enduring appeal.

What truly distinguishes Univ, however, is the profound sense of belonging it fosters among its members. This ethos was palpable at the dinner, where old and new members reconnected, reflecting on shared experiences. The evening’s highlight was a heartfelt conversation between the college Master and the Albanian Ambassador to the UK, his excellency Dr Uran Ferizi, himself a Univ alumnus. The Ambassador shared his inspiring journey, which saw him leave Albania for Belgium and later travel to the UK on an immigrant boat – driven by an unwavering determination to pursue a mathematics degree at Univ. His story underscored the power of resilience and the transformative role of education, resonating deeply with all in attendance. His message of hope emphasized the importance of inclusivity and humanity in the face of adversity. It was a stirring reminder that education should be a universal right, transcending barriers of prejudice and inequality. Univ’s commitment to these values continues to make it not just an academic institution but a lifelong community.

Univ 775 London Dinner

The event was elevated to a truly spectacular evening by the stunning venue at the Royal Automobile Club, with its elegant dining room setting the perfect stage. The warmth and camaraderie of Univ’s community further enriched the atmosphere, creating a memorable celebration of the College’s enduring legacy.