Development & Alumni Report

For many charities, the past 18 months have proved uniquely challenging, as an uncertain economic outlook, combined with depleted staffing resources and gaps in usual programmes of events and fundraising activities, have impacted negatively on income from donations. At the same time, demands on services have increased, as those dependent on charitable activities (in our case, our students) have required additional support, and the calls on that income from donations have never been greater. To a great extent, Clare is no different to many charities in the difficulties we have faced during this period, but thanks to the remarkable loyalty of our alumni and supporters we have been able to weather the early stages of this particular storm better than we might have initially expected. We are enormously grateful to you all.

We have raised approximately £19 million of our £25 million target, with Phase 1a of the works completed and Phase 1b well underway. Read the Buildings Department update for further information on the project.

The Clare Emergency Fund once again provided a vital lifeline in helping the College bear the unexpected costs of the pandemic this year. The fund meant we were able to pay for extraordinary travel expenses for stranded students, and support staff on furlough. To date, over £130,000 has been raised with the help of our supporters.

It has also been a year of significant change within the Development team. Bill O’Hearn left us in January 2021, and we are thankful for the leadership and vision he provided during his time at Clare. Our new Development Director, Paul McCarthy, stepped into the role and joined the College Fellowship in October 2021, and he looks forward very much to getting to know the Clare community. We were delighted to welcome Ann Cernek, who joined as Senior Development Officer, and Shannon O’Shea who took the role of Events and Development Assistant. We said goodbye to Camille Chabloz and Sophie Baker, who left Clare for new roles in Switzerland and London, respectively. Danielle Melling welcomed a baby boy, Frederick (Freddie) Melling, in July, with Ann stepping up as Acting Development Manager while Danielle is on maternity leave.

I am personally deeply appreciative of the Alumni and Development team, and how adaptable and cheerful they have remained during this time of uncertainty. They have continued to innovate and deliver a varied and engaging programme of events and communications – principally online – but we are now moving back towards in-person activities and are delighted to be able to start welcoming our alumni and friends back to the College.

We hope to see you at Clare soon. If you would like to learn more or become involved, please do get in touch with the Development Office by calling 01223 333200 or emailing development@clare.cam.ac.uk.