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The event was an evening of celebration showcasing the depth and breadth of research taking place across 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ and around the world with our Alumni community.

The Flight Gallery at the Science Museum was alive with cheer and conversation as supporters, alumni, students and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements of the 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ community. While talented students and staff are advancing scientific breakthroughs in 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ’s campuses, 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ alumni are creating positive change across the globe. 

As the evening’s host, President Hugh Brady welcomed guests and thanked them for their support. He spoke about the excellence of the 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ community: “Every day, our students, staff and partners come together to interrogate the forces that shape our world and use that understanding to tackle the biggest challenges facing humanity. This approach underpins our strategy, Science for Humanity, and philanthropy plays a pivotal role in advancing this mission, notably by empowering and nurturing the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.”

Recognising global impact 

The evening honoured the winners of this year’s Alumni Awards, an annual celebration that recognises outstanding 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ graduates and their achievements.  

H.E. Khunying Kalaya Sophonpanich, this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award winner, was one of the speakers that evening. She said: “911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ did not only just give me knowledge but also confidence and perspective. My education at 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ helped shape my life. That is why receiving this award means so much to me." 

Growing up in rural Thailand, Kalaya dreamed of studying abroad. She received a scholarship to pursue a PhD in Physics at 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ and graduated in 1970. Since then, she has pursued a career in politics to transform STEM education in Thailand, initiating policies that prepare Thai students for a digital future.  

President Hugh Brady said: “This year’s winners are redefining what is possible. From clean energy and public health to education and social impact, their work is shaping a fairer, more sustainable future for communities around the world.” 

The 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ Alumni community is an international network of over 270,000 graduates in 200 countries. The Alumni Awards are a testament to the global talent that 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ has helped to foster, whose achievements are benefitting populations worldwide. 

Nominations for the 2027 Alumni Awards is now open, and guests had the opportunity to learn more about being involved in the nominations process throughout the evening.

Philanthropy powers next-generation research 

The event brought stories featured in 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ’s Impact of Giving Report to life, an annual publication that thanks supporters and illustrates the impact of their donations.  

Guests heard from Dr Shamsuddeen Muhammad, a Google DeepMind Academic Fellow whose research into natural language processing was highlighted in the report: “When African languages are left out of AI, the harm spreads in every direction at once. My research bridges this gap, and none of this would have been possible without my fellowship.

"Philanthropy made my dream of joining 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ a reality. Generosity like yours is never simply a transaction. It is a multiplier. When you give to one scholar, you do not just change one life. You change every life that scholar will ever go on to touch with their work."

Through a series of interactive showcase stands, guests could speak directly with scholars and researchers and learn more about their work. From sustainable textiles and materials science to robotics and health, 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ’s supporters are empowering talented individuals to advance innovative research that benefits society.

Enabling the brightest minds 

In the 2024–25 academic year, 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ received £77.5 million in philanthropic donations to advance education, foster innovation and support world-leading research. Over £8 million was given for scholarships and student support initiatives. 

One of the scholars showcasing their work was Maya Thabal Herron, a PhD student and scholarship recipient within The Dyson School of Design Engineering. Maya’s research focuses on developing sustainable textiles that harvest energy from body movements such as stretching and walking. She said: “Being awarded a scholarship has given me the freedom to mould my research into something I’m genuinely excited about. For that, I’m grateful.” 

Out of the 3,598 donors who gave, more than 80% are 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ alumni. Many 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ alumni also choose to give their time and expertise through volunteering and mentoring students.  

John Barnes (911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ Business School 1985) said: "I support students today as it's so expensive to live and study in London and the support can make a real difference to their work and experience. I’ve really enjoyed the evening, it’s the first time I’ve attended such an event and it’s nice to come and really feel part of the 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ community."

Find out more about the transformative impact philanthropy has had on 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ's brightest minds by reading the latest Impact of Giving Report.