Earlier this year, we welcomed alumni volunteers, students, and staff to the Wills Memorial Reception Room for our annual Community Connections event – an evening dedicated to recognising and celebrating the remarkable contributions of Bristol’s alumni volunteers.
Community Connections brings alumni volunteers local to Bristol together in person, offering an opportunity to connect across generations, share experiences, and hear first-hand about the positive impact of alumni involvement on student life. The event provides a meaningful space for connection, reflection, and inspiration, strengthening the bonds within our diverse and supportive community.
Alumni shape and enhance the Bristol experience in numerous ways – through initiatives such as Bristol Mentors where alumni are paired with a student from an under-represented group to support them with their careers, or Bristol Voices where local Bristol graduates are paired with an international student to help them settle into life in a new city. Bristol alumni also facilitate networking opportunities, share advice and offer industry placements for specific degree subjects.
The evening began with a speech from Laura Anders, Head of Alumni Engagement, who introduced the guest speakers and set the tone for a warm and inspiring event.
Jon Philips (BSc 1994), Chair of the Alumni Association Committee, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on his own journey – from his time as a student at Bristol to his graduation and involvement as an alumni volunteer. Jon highlighted the invaluable role volunteers play in shaping University life and fostering a powerful sense of belonging.
Robbie Fox, Alumni Mentoring Coordinator at the University’s Careers Service, hosted a conversation with second year Economics and Politics Jude, a mentee from the Bristol Mentors programme. Their discussion offered insight into the value of mentoring support. Jude shared the challenges students face when thinking about careers after university, recalling what first drew him to the programme. He spoke about encouragement and practical guidance his mentor provided – ranging from confidence-building to career-planning – and the positive difference it has made to his experience as a student.
Community Connections is about recognising that Bristol is more than a university – it’s a lifelong community. Alumni involvement enriches the student experience, supports the University’s mission, and creates a culture of giving back that is vital to our shared future. The energy in the room was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared purpose.
The event also spotlights the many ways alumni can get involved, regardless of how much time they can commit. From one-off speaking engagements to ongoing mentoring relationships, there is a place for everyone in Bristol’s vibrant volunteering network.
As we look ahead, we remain deeply grateful to our alumni volunteers and excited for what we can achieve together. Whether you’re mentoring, speaking, supporting, or connecting, you are part of what makes Bristol special.
If you’d like to learn more about volunteering opportunities and join our growing community of alumni supporters, please visit our Get Involved page.
