Launching the celebrations - 60 years of Van Mildert College

On January 30th, Van Mildert Principal, Professor Tom Mole, was delighted to welcome a vibrant gathering of Mildert alumni to kick off a year of celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the College’s foundation. 

Connecting with alumni 

The event, graciously hosted by alumna Suzanne Kingston (Law, 1980-83), brought together alumni from the College’s inaugural cohort with its most recent graduates. It was a memorable occasion to celebrate six decades of Van Mildert's rich history. Since its founding in 1965, the College has profoundly shaped the lives of generations of students, and the event provided a wonderful opportunity for many to reconnect and reminisce about their time at Mildert. 

Guests enjoyed a musical treat from students Josh Brooks on guitar, Will Mawer on drums and Ben Post on the saxophone.  

An exciting future 

Looking forward, the event also served as a platform to discuss Van Mildert’s exciting future. College Principal, Professor Tom Mole, shared the College’s vision for continued growth and development through four Jubilee Projects. These initiatives include the construction of a new Boathouse, the refurbishment of the Ann Dobson Hall, the creation of a new Common Room space for students, and the significant expansion of student experience funding to help remove financial barriers, ensuring that all students can fully engage with their College life, regardless of their background. 

Professor Tom Mole said "All four projects share the aim of creating a sense of belonging.  Belonging from the moment you arrive to the moment you graduate and beyond, whoever you are, wherever you come from, and whatever your financial situation."   

For more information: 

• About Van Mildert College 

• About our 60th anniversary plans 

 Or contact us on vm-development@durham.ac.uk.