Almost one third of those attending the annual dinner for Queen’s University Association London (QUAL) were new to the alumni group.

“Queen’s continues to evolve and have a major impact both at home and across the world,” Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Judy Williams told guests at the Royal Thames Yacht Club.

“This event is special, not just because it provides an opportunity to reconnect and reflect, but because it highlights the momentum of our shared journey.

“We know our graduates remain incredibly proud of being part of the Queen’s global community long after they pick up their qualifications and it is delightful to be able to update them on all the achievements across our University this year.

"From delivering the Global Innovation Summit at Queen’s, to exciting research developments, while also inspiring and supporting young people with scholarships and mentoring – we have much to be proud of.”

Alumni from across the generations

Alumni attending their first Queen’s event in London included Leah Tohill 28, who graduated in 2020 and Adam Houghton, aged 76, who studied law at Queen’s from 1966 to 1970.

“I had never been until now,” Adam said, “but I am really enjoying it. I’m from England. My mother was born in Belfast, which was the connection and how I went there.

“I’ve always kept an eye on Queen’s and I’ve been to some earlier events, going back to the Law Faculty at Queen’s. I’ve seen alumni events, with QUAL, but I’m afraid I’ve never gone to one until now. I’ve finally done it and I’m enjoying it very much.”

Leah, a Managing Consultant with First Derivative, studied International Business and Spanish at Queen’s. She said the alumni event was a great way to make new connections and renew old friendships.
“It’s so lovely to re-connect with people from home. Being in London, it’s great that you’re surrounded by people from around the world, but I guess it’s a bit special sometimes when you connect with people you have something in common with, people who went to the same University as you.”

Other alumni included Aiveen Bharucha, who graduated in psychology in 1968, and Tom Charlick who studied Finance and graduated in 2021.

Tom, an Associate at Morgan Stanley, said: “It’s great to meet other people who have been on the same path as you at Queen’s, but who have maybe taken a chance, or who have travelled the world. It’s inspiring.”

Keeping connections with Queen's

Bogdan Golumbeanu studied Economics and Finance at Queen’s, graduating in 2021 and is now a Senior Associate at Goldman Sachs.

"Queen's definitely helped me by putting me in contact with industry professionals that were instrumental in tailoring my applications during my student years.  

“Looking back, the advice I received from both careers and the alumni team helped me identify the industry I want to work in and I highly recommend everyone to make use of them. It is always great to connect with old friends and meet other Queen's alumni in London.”

Louise Cook, who graduated in Management and French in 2004, said: “I joined QUAL when moving to London 16 years ago, as I feel passionate about supporting Queen’s University Belfast, where I spent some of the best years of my life. I really love the instant network and sense of community that comes with being part of QUAL and the range of events which attract alumni ranging from recent graduates right up to the nonagenarians.  

“I’m always interested in hearing updates from Queen’s staff and representatives, particularly in regard to innovative research initiatives and positive news stories. It’s great to have these updates first hand at events in London. I’ve definitely made friends for life through QUAL and it’s a great way to keep in touch with all things relating to ‘home’."  

‘A network that spans the globe’

The dinner followed an event in September, where Queen’s graduates gathered at a packed reception in Pall Mall. Additional alumni events are planned for London throughout 2025, which marks Queen’s 180th anniversary.

Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy at Queen’s, Eddie Friel, thanked QUAL members for being part of an “extraordinary community”.

“Gatherings like this remind us of the strength of our alumni community - a network that spans the globe and continues to grow and have a positive impact on these islands and around the world.”