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Durham strengthens global alumni network with US visit
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Our alumni have taken part in a programme of career networking and engagement activity across the United States from 7–15 May 2026.
The programme included visits to San Francisco and Washington DC by Dr Katie Harland Edminson, Chief Development Officer, and Louise Strong, Senior Alumni Engagement Manager. They were joined by Professor Mike Shipman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost before continuing to New York, where they were joined by Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen O’Brien.
Building global career connections
The visit brought together alumni across three cities through career-focused networking events and alumni receptions engaging more than 150 graduates, supporters and partners.
In San Francisco, around 50 alumni attended a networking event focused on Artificial Intelligence in Context: Policy, Ethics and Impact, with alumni speakers exploring how AI is shaping industries and the future of work.
The programme also included a Venture School ‘Meet the Entrepreneur’ session with Durham alumnus and former Netflix Chief Product Officer Neil Hunt, who offered a group of students and graduates insight into innovation and leadership in Silicon Valley.
Durham Venture School brings together talented individuals to explore major global and industry challenges and turn them into new venture opportunities.
Attendees represented sectors including technology, fintech, engineering, venture capital and start-ups, highlighting Durham’s presence in a leading global innovation hub.
Engaging the East Coast alumni community
In Washington DC, around 50 alumni attended a reception bringing together graduates working across policy, international development, finance and the public sector.
Guests heard from Professor Mike Shipman and our Chancellor, Dr Fiona Hill, who reflected on the University’s global outlook, widening access to education and its ambitions as it approaches its bicentenary.
Connecting in New York
The visit concluded in New York, where around 60 alumni attended a Scheinman Career Networking event hosted at Brunswick Group.
Chaired by the Vice-Chancellor, the event explored Geopolitical Risks and the Impact of Artificial Intelligence in the Financial Services sector, with alumni speakers discussing how technological and global change are reshaping the industry.
Attendees reflected strong representation across financial services, law, technology and consulting, underscoring Durham’s influence in a leading global financial centre.
Strengthening an international community
Our USA-based alumni community is more than 5,000 strong and plays an important role in the life of the University. The visit provided an opportunity to reconnect with alumni across the country and celebrate their continued connection to Durham.
It was fantastic to see so many of our alumni come together across the US. These events show the strength of the Durham community globally and the important role our networks play in supporting career development, opening opportunities and maintaining lifelong connections.
Looking ahead
The visit reflects our continued commitment to building a connected global community, supporting graduates throughout their careers and strengthening relationships with alumni and partners around the world.
Read more:
- About our alumni community
Durham University takes pride in the achievements and contributions of its 230,000 alumni and supporters. Stories that cite views, talks and published work reflect the individual’s contribution in their personal or professional capacity and do not represent the University’s position or endorsement.