UEL alumni weekend a resounding success

Published

07 August 2024

UEL hosted its highly anticipated second annual Alumni Big Weekend, building on the success of last year’s inaugural event which had marked the university’s 125th anniversary. The latest weekend saw a sell-out crowd, with over 120 alumni attending various activities, and many more seeking last-minute or extra tickets for friends and family.

The festivities kicked off with a vibrant welcome reception and quiz night, setting the tone for a weekend of camaraderie and connection. The popular event which was staged from Friday 2 August to Sunday 4 August, featured a dynamic blend of activities designed to engage and entertain. Alumni enjoyed nostalgic campus tours of Docklands and Stratford, fitness sessions at the University’s SportsDock and an Alumni Fair highlighting the array of post-graduation services.

Charlie Werren, Deputy Head of Alumni, delivered a welcome address, celebrating the University's achievements and Vision 2028. She said, “It was fantastic to see so many faces both familiar and new. The Alumni Big Weekend has grown immensely in just a year. It’s a fantastic event that the team loves working on, and the alumni enjoy attending. It allows our graduates to reconnect with the University and their peers, have fun, and gain new knowledge and experiences.”

Throughout the weekend, alumni took part in an array of engaging activities, including a mocktail-making masterclass, a painting workshop, and a selfie scavenger hunt.

Kemarie Walker, a recent Graphic Design graduate, praised the event, saying, “The Big Weekend is fantastic. It is relaxed and fun. I am meeting people and learning all about them. This place is amazing.”

The highlight of the weekend was the Greatest Showman-themed Gala Dinner. Alumni were greeted by stilt walkers and showgirls and enjoyed a transformed big-top atmosphere with carnival games and dazzling performances from singers to contortionists. The evening ended with alumni dancing the night away to a light-up bongo player and violinist.

Anna-Louise Leydon, a Community Arts Practice alumna, described the event as phenomenal, saying “It was brilliant. What they offer to the alumni cohort is phenomenal, and Charlie and her team do an amazing job. I look forward to continuing to engage with them over the next year.”

Giovanni Bordone who graduated in International Fashion Management 10 years ago, shared, “What an amazing weekend! Spotless organisation and a high-quality event.”