The inaugural 1249 Society Garden Party took place at the College on 12 July, welcoming 63 guests in total. Event report by Fabienne Sinclair Morris (2004, Music)

On an appropriately warm Saturday in July, Old Members and their guests came together in Univ’s Fellows’ Garden for the College’s first ever 1249 Society Garden Party.

OK, warm is putting it mildly – this garden party was roasting. So much so that the Development team had emailed guests in the days prior with reminders to bring hats and sun cream.

Fortunately, the Pimm’s was flowing and the library cast a large welcome pool of shade. With the gentle sounds of a live harp and the College’s beautifully tended flowerbeds at every turn, it was a gorgeous setting for a summer day of meeting, mingling and reminiscing.

The afternoon felt especially festive as Old Members had been invited not just to bring a plus one, but their wider families. The result was a lively gathering of all ages, from toddlers (including my own one-year-old) to octogenarians. The College delivered on the family-friendly theme with face painting and crafting stations, giant Connect 4 and a treasure hunt for children (and some keen adults) eager to explore Univ’s nooks and crannies.

After a cheerful welcome from Master Valerie Amos, including an update on Univ North, we were invited to afternoon tea in the dining hall. There were audible murmurs of approval as we entered – festooned with bunting in Univ colours, the ever impressive hall looked even prettier than usual. The catering team did a brilliant job, with a delicious buffet of sandwiches and sweet treats galore, presented on traditional three-tier stands.

The donors who comprise Univ’s 1249 Society have one thing in common: they give on a monthly basis. Regular gifts are vital to the College, providing a sustainable income which allows them to plan effectively for the future. Regular gifts, even small ones, add up over time and in some cases, end up equalling larger, transformative one-off gifts. The minimum recurring monthly gift is just £12.49 and is a thoughtful way to include Old Members who may not have the capacity to give more substantial sums.

On a personal note, as a new parent, I am glad to see Univ experiment with increasingly inclusive event formats. Mystique is arguably part of Oxford University’s charm but too often colleges can appear austere and intimidating to outsiders. I like the idea that my daughter will feel a sense of belonging in a space like Univ, as she grows and attends more events there.

We can’t wait for the next party – we’ll be there, come rain or shine.

To learn more about the 1249 Society, click here.

Published: 4 August 2025

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