Class Notes
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Email us at alumni@soton.ac.uk to share your life updates and
memories of Southampton over the decades.
1950s
Colin Warburg (BSc Biochemistry and Physiology, 1982) and his twin, Richard, have published their mother’s memoir, Baldly Speaking: The War Years.
Tessa Lorant studied BA Mathematics, graduating in 1952, with the book containing information about her life studying at the University of Southampton.
Tessa was born in Berlin, Germany, and moved to England following the Anschluss. After studying Mathematics, Tessa became an American before returning to the UK in 1953 where she raised her family in Godney, near Glastonbury, where she lived from 1953 to 2000.
After moving to Southampton to stay with her eldest son, Tessa was very involved in the city, setting up writing buddies and participating in literary meetings across Southampton.
Tessa wrote some 30 books in her life, receiving The Oddfellows Award in 1989 for Voice at Twilight. Her first science-fiction novel, Cloner, is now being made into a film for release in 2026, where Tessa herself features as an extra. Filming took place in and around Southampton.
Following her death on 16th October 2024, Tessa’s sons took up her legacy, working through a number of manuscripts left by Tessa. Baldly Speaking: The War Years is the first book to be released.
1960s
Tony ‘Taffy’ Willcox (BSc Electronic Engineering, 1969):
“When I was at Southampton, I was Secretary of the EFS (Engineering Faculty Society) in my final year.
“After many years of news drought, I resurrected the Soton EFS ’69 Club in 2014, with help from the University to trace some members. This culminated in a very successful 50-year reunion weekend at Chilworth Manor in 2019.
“Starting in 2020, we started monthly Zoom meetings to keep in touch, with participants from the USA, Canada, Norway, Italy, Australia and, of course, the UK. You might be interested to know that last month we held our 56th Zoom call! We generally get 8-10 members, varying month by month. It has proven very interesting as we review our histories, and appreciate how lucky we have been to have had such rewarding careers.
“One of the lasting memories was seven of us taking the Toastrack bus to Switzerland – and back – on a three-week road trip. In recent times I’ve been in touch with the Toastrack committee, who have done a fantastic job in renovating the Toastrack. Indeed, Oana and Will were invited to join one of our Zoom calls some years ago. A great team.”
Anthony Bravery (BSc Botany, 1965) got in touch on the 60th anniversary of his graduation. He writes:
“July 2025 represents 60 years since my graduation from the Department of Botany (with subsidiary Zoology) at Southampton. Now living in retirement with my wife (diamond wedding anniversary this year!) near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire. Still in touch with Martin Webster (BSc Mech Engineering, 1965) who lives nearby. Retired nearly 20 years from the Scientific Civil Service at BRE in Watford (privatised in 1997) as Director of the then Centre for Timber Technology and Construction. Among various career highlights are gaining a PhD from Imperial College, University of London, Post-Doctoral assignment at The University of Hamburg (1971), secondment to the Department of the Environment HQ in Whitehall (1977), 30+ years’ service on UK and EU Scientific Collaboration Groups and Standardisation Committees, President of the International Research Group on Wood Protection (1992-96), 32 years on the HMS Victory Technical Advisory Committee and member of the management buyout team at privatisation of BRE.
“Happy Southampton memories include following in my father’s footsteps as a Geography graduate of the University in its former guise as Hartley College, scholarship entry and resident of Connaught Hall, field courses at Port Erin in the Isle of Man with Prof Williams, in north Norfolk and The Broads with Dr Joyce Lambert; playing football for the University Second XI, attending the outstanding engineering and science faculty balls! Membership of the University Motor Club including competitive driving tests and rallying (with Martin Webster as navigator!).”
Dr Julie McGeoch (BSc Physiology and Biochemistry, 1969) who also completed her PhD at Southampton (1973), and is still working at Harvard, shared the following:
“Over the years I have been focused on protein structure and ion channel structure. For the last four years I have needed telescopes to obtain data on a space polymer termed hemoglycin.
‘Space-filling efficiency and optical properties of hemoglycin’ was published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society in November 2025.
“The empty, extensive low-density lattice topology of hemoglycin is examined to understand how in space, and possibly as early as 800 Myr into cosmic time a rod-like polymer of glycine and iron came into dominance. A central question to be answered is whether the hemoglycin rod lattice with diamond 2H symmetry represents the most efficient covering of space by a regular arrangement of identical rods.”
1970s
Calling all 1976 graduates!
How are you celebrating your 50th graduation anniversary? Whether you’re hosting a party, revisiting your old haunts, or catching up with your classmates, we’d love to share your celebration plans in our next online edition.
Get in touch with us via email: alumni@soton.ac.uk
Mike Illes (BSc Mathematics, 1971):
“I only just about graduated, but used my relative failure as a prime motivator in my life. Married Helen, whom I met when I was a third year and she a fresher in 1972, and we are still married now with two daughters and four grandchildren.
“I worked in IT in the 1970s and 80s, rising to become the Director of Systems in Europe for Levi Strauss and then Data General. I adored the ability to innovate massively in both companies before I became a consultant in the late 80s, before the consultancy crash in the city.
“Having taken some of my clients with me, I started helping Helen with the administration and IT at MOT Models, a company she had founded in 1985. Between us we grew it into the busiest agency in Europe before she fell seriously unwell.
“The business has continued to develop with me at the helm, although at the age of 76 I am now backing out of the business having developed a very strong management team to take over from me.
“IT to modelling was not such a big jump. Both require very careful management of people and aligning skills and strengths. My background helped the agency utilise IT well ahead of the competition.”
1980s
Nick Carter (Physiology and Biochemistry, 1981, PGCE, 1982):
“My years at Southampton certainly were busy, and helped guide my future life. Events Treasurer, Union Social Secretary, Union Admin Committee, Rag Committee and President of TranSoc. Plus, enough work to get a 2:1.
“I left for Stoke on Trent to teach for a couple of years, which turned into 38. Involved in pastoral care which was very rewarding. Very involved with the cadet forces both in uniform and as a trustee.
“After I retired, two episodes of Homes Under the Hammer were enough. Still a trustee with the Sea Cadets, school governance work and, in case I got bored, my wife signed me up to an allotment. And I still have a group of alumni friends who maintain a healthy interest in transport.”
Adrian Clarke (BSc Aeronautics and Astronautics, 1981):
“My final year dissertation carried on the work of the successful Formula 1 designer Adrian Newey. His book, How to Build a Car, mentions Ken Burgin, an aerodynamics lecturer and project supervisor, whom we both shared time with and certainly instilled an enthusiasm for engineering problem solving, which has served me well in my automotive engineering and business career. I can hear his breathy voice even now, advising me on different approaches to getting reliable wind tunnel results. I look back with fondness at my time at the university. I have a blurry picture of the 1978 intake of engineering students in front of the old bus which hangs on my office wall, we all look so young!
“My career has been mainly in automotive design engineering and after working for a number of years at Jaguar Cars, set-up an automotive design services company, which has been trading in various guises for thirty years.
“Three years ago, I became a trustee of the Lanchester Trust. The Lanchester Trust was formed in 2010 to celebrate the achievements of Dr Frederick Lanchester and to inspire future generations of innovators and engineers by his legacy.”
You can read more about Fred and the work of the Lanchester Trust here.
1990s
Lucy Watt (BA English, 1999):
“I’ve had an interesting career since graduation – going from councillor to counsellor! I was elected as a Liberal Democrat councillor in the London Borough of Islington in 2002, aged 23, fresh from my experience in SUSU where I was LGB Officer and a Union Council Member. I became Deputy Leader of the Council 2006-2010.
I have since re-trained as a humanistic counsellor and am now Head of Programme for BSc Reflective Therapeutic Practice and Certificate in Therapeutic Skills and Studies at Metanoia Institute in Ealing, London. I’m also a Pink Therapy Accredited trainer, and have worked in East London helping unemployed people back to work, and in a digital tech social innovation company working, working for Google, Facebook, and as a consultant for Nextdoor.
A Southampton degree and experience from the Students’ Union does really take you to different places in the world.”
Celebrating a 30-year wedding anniversary with Toastrack
On 7 October 1995, Toastrack served as a rather unconventional wedding car for Hans and Jacqueline Suter-Jester’s marriage at Beaulieu.
Toastrack took not just the newlyweds, but their entire family, on a scenic ride around the New Forest. 30 years later, the couple were thrilled to relive the experience with the very same Toastrack – now with their children joining the ride! The three generations were driven by Will Webb and Oana Lazar around the local area, recreating the photos from their wedding album throughout the fantastically joyous day.
The 1929 Dennis G Type charabanc is one of only four that were ever built. Since 1958, it has been lovingly maintained and run by University of Southampton students and alumni, and is the only vintage bus of its kind that’s still on the road.
2000s
The following entries were submitted as part of our Memories of Hartley Library exhibition, held in the autumn:
“Thank you for being my second home, my caffeine-fueled refuge, and the one place where procrastination felt slightly productive. From whispering group debates in ‘quiet zones’ to marathon sessions of ‘just one more reference’.
“You didn’t just store books, you stored memories. You taught me how to find knowledge, lose track of time, and master the art of pretending to read while people-watching.
“Forever grateful, Hartley – you made the stress of deadlines oddly bearable and the victory of finishing a dissertation feel like conquering Mount Everest… indoors.
“With love and a fond nod to your comfy chairs, a proud and slightly sleep-deprived alumnus.”
Wachira Boonyanet (PhD Business, 2002)
“Racing to get to the short-term loan section after a lecture. Some people dropping books out of a window on a Sunday (was not me!)”
Lucy Rawe (BSc Geography, 2000)
“I remember stumbling upon a hidden room in the library, a quiet archive where old books were kept. It was very dusty, tucked away, and incredibly peaceful. I preferred studying there because it was completely free of the usual distractions: no one walking past, no half-whispered conversations. Only a handful of people even knew it existed. The route to get there was so winding and obscure that I couldn’t retrace it today if I tried. I wonder if it’s still there.”
Oluwagbemileke Afariogun (MEng Electronics and Computer Science, 2004)
“Hartley library is the only reason I graduated with a 2:1. I could only study in total silence with no distractions. I started doing 9 to 5 days in the library to make sure I revised for finals. I inspired a group of my friends from Southampton Stags American football team to join me, and we all got through it together! I can’t believe that was 20 years ago! Feels like yesterday.”
Tamsin McKenzie (BSc Psychology, 2005)
Joy Igiebor (PGCE in Primary Education, 2005) has written her debut educational book (ISBN: 9781032991726) titled, ‘Doing Learning Development in Higher Education: A Practical Guide for New and Early Career Learning Developers’ , due to be published by Taylor & Francis Ltd. on 7 April 2026. The synopsis for the book is below:
Doing Learning Development in Higher Education is an essential introductory companion for those new to working in this emerging and exciting field. Filled with actionable tips, real-world advice and illuminating anecdotes, this book will help readers navigate the challenges and opportunities of helping students unlock their full academic potential, whilst highlighting the important role that Learning Developers have.
Covering the fundamental aspects of Learning Development practice, it explores everything from conducting effective workshops, collaborating with colleagues and students, leading tutorials, creating impactful learning resources and much more. Readers will gain valuable insights into building productive relationships with students and colleagues, understanding the wider institutional context, and charting their own professional development journey. Each chapter blends theoretical foundations with practical applications, providing the tools to make an immediate impact.
This practical guide will be helpful for new and early career Learning Developers working with undergraduate and postgraduate students across higher education institutions. It is equally valuable for early career academics and university staff in student-facing roles who wish to enhance their practice.
The book is currently available for pre-order in Waterstones and Foyles, as well as international retailers.
2010s
Daniela Elias (MSc Maritime Law, 2016) launches the new Cyprus Alumni Network
Daniela Elias, as well as her brother and their father, all studied Maritime Law at the University of Southampton. Together, they now run their own law firm between the UK and Cyprus. Daniela is primarily based in Limassol, Cyprus, and has recently taken on leading the new Cyprus Alumni Network where Southampton alumni in Cyprus are staying connected and building new friendships.
Salma Ibrahim (BA English, 2016):
“I studied English and absolutely loved my time at the university. In February last year, I published my debut novel, Salutation Road, with Pan Macmillan and subsequently signed a two-book deal. The novel began as a short story during my undergraduate studies, and it was the encouragement of my dissertation tutor, Philip Hoare, that pushed me to develop it into a full-length work. I remain deeply grateful for his belief in me and for the creative foundation Southampton gave me.”
Sedigh Mohammadi (MA English Language Teaching, 2018):
“I completed my MA with Distinction and have recently co-edited a book titled Completing Assignments in TESOL and Applied Linguistics: A Practical Guide, published by Routledge.
This hands-on guide walks students through every stage of assignment preparation, from unpacking assignment briefs and engaging in critical reading, to synthesising sources and developing academic writing.”.
2020s
Oana Lazar (MEng Electronic Engineering with Industrial Studies, 2022) was shortlisted for the TechWorks Young Engineer of the Year Award 2025. The award celebrates ‘an engineer under 30, who has demonstrated significant achievements in engineering, business or personal development’. Oana is absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted for this award for the second year in a row.
Lulwah Alsane (MSc Education Management and Leadership, 2024):
“I’m thrilled to share an update on what I’ve been up to! My professional journey in education, which began in Kuwait as an Elementary Science Teacher in 2002, has taken an exciting turn. I later transitioned to a role as a Training Staff member in the practical education department at the College of Basic Education, Public Authority for Applied Education and Training.
“I recently completed my studies at the University of Southampton, and I have such beautiful memories of my time there. After attending the Language Institute, I successfully completed my Master’s degree in Education, specialising in Educational Administration and Leadership, finishing in November 2024 with honors. I started my Master’s program in May 2023.
“I benefited immensely from my professors, especially my Master’s thesis supervisor, Dr. Chris Brown, who provided invaluable guidance. The experience has enriched my understanding and approach to leadership in education.
“In my teaching career, I’ve always embraced innovation, including winning the first rank in the national Creative Robot competition in Kuwait in 2016 and passing numerous training courses, including a STEAM Education Training by the American BOEING Company. These experiences, combined with my master’s degree, have fueled my passion for developing school performance.
“I’m excited to apply this new knowledge to my work as a Specialized Trainer and continue to give back to the education community. I wish all my former classmates the very best!”
Obituaries
Jane Goodall
We were saddened to hear of the death of Dr Jane Goodall, who was awarded an Honorary Degree from the University of Southampton in 2019.
Dr Goodall was a committed conservationist and a world-leading expert on chimpanzees.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mark E. Smith, said: “Dr Goodall’s dedication to her work and inspiring others, particularly young people, leaves an incredible legacy.
“I hope her work and her leadership will continue to be a source of inspiration for many, including to future generations of scientists.”
Share an update or a special memory
Whether you’ve attended a reunion or meet up, are celebrating a special award or achievement, or would like to share an obituary with your peers, we’d love to hear from you. We invite you to share an update or a special memory of your time at university with your classmates in the Class Notes section of your alumni magazine, Hartley News.
