The Queen's College Record 2023

‘Changing paths: Experiences of different career journeys’ featured Old
Members Katherine Irving (Chemistry 1984), Francine Raveney (English and Modern
Languages, 1992), and Joanne Robinson (History, 1991) who shared fascinating
and inspiring stories of their ‘non-linear’ careers in a session chaired by Lauriane
Anderson-Mair (Modern Languages, 2007).
Recordings of both events are available on the Queen’s YouTube channel.
We are grateful to Mark Evans (Modern Languages, 1977) who again kindly facilitated
the hosting of the event by RSM UK at their London offices, which also allowed for
networking with RSM colleagues who joined us on the night. This underlines the
benefits of Old Members supporting the Network by providing venues and helping
to host events. Early-career Old Members, in particular, are able to gain an insight
into different working environments and sectors and to broaden their networks.
Please do let us know if you would be willing to support a future event, either in
London or elsewhere.
Old Members’ Activities
We enjoyed meeting everyone who visited the QWN stand at the Garden Party
in July, complete with new banner, branded tablecloth, and bookmarks promoting
QWN. The purpose was to encourage women to sign up to the QWN LinkedIn group.
Old Members, College staff, and their families also enjoyed the photo booth and
bubble entertainer sponsored by us.
Support for current College members
The Network has been enjoying developing closer ties with the MCR and JCR
Women’s Reps this year and looking at ways in which we can provide a forum for
discussion for current members about issues of particular interest to women, as
well as practical ways in which we can provide support with careers. In June we
were invited to give a talk on the QWN to members of the MCR and JCR in College.
Alison Sanders (PPE, 1979) gave a fun and interesting reflection on life in College
as one of the first cohort of women, and the inspiring career journey that followed.
We have increased efforts this year to raise awareness of the Network among current
members and are grateful to the MCR and JCR Women’s reps for their enthusiasm
and help with this. Information on the Queen’s Women’s Network has also now been
incorporated into the College Leavers’ Pack for new graduates.
We have been discussing with the MCR the possibility of a mentoring scheme
between the QWN and the MCR. For the moment we have decided that we shall
foster links organically through our meetings and events, but we always welcome
ideas on how we can support College members.
College Record 2023 | The Queen’s College 69