Autumn 2026
Welcome to the latest issue of Hartley News, the magazine for alumni and supporters of the University of Southampton.
In this edition, alumnus Paul Woodman talks to us about how he applies his engineering mindset to important community work here in Southampton. We also explore how Professor Kai Yang and her team are stitching life-changing technology into everyday clothes to help people living with stroke, osteoarthritis and injury to regain movement and independence.
Clothes that care
Within the E-textile Innovation Lab she established in 2020, Professor Kai Yang is stitching life-changing technology into everyday clothes. Her smart textiles empower stroke, osteoarthritis and injury patients to self-rehabilitate, helping restore a sense of independence and self.
He came to study, stayed to serve
Paul Woodman arrived in Southampton in 1989, ready to study mechanical engineering. When he stepped off the train at Southampton Central for the first time, he remembers thinking: “This is where I belong.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2026
Graduating doesn’t mean leaving Southampton behind. As a member of our alumni community, you can keep building your career, growing your network and developing your skills with us.
Together we have no limits
Last issue, we told you all about the launch of our biggest ever fundraising campaign, to raise £50m to build the Institute for Medical Innovation (IMI). A lot has happened since then, and now it’s time for you to get involved.
Igniting brighter futures: Alexandra’s Ignite journey
Our Ignite student columnist, Alexandra, shares reflections on how the Ignite Programme is shaping her experience.
A life shaped by light
Dr Efstratios (Stratos) Kehayas (BEng Electronic Engineering, 2001), President of Photonics at G&H (Gooch & Housego), reflects on his career in photonics and the lasting impact of his time at the University of Southampton.
Meet your 2026 Outstanding Alumni Award winners
Five exceptional University of Southampton alumni were celebrated with Outstanding Alumni Awards during this year’s graduation ceremonies: Professor Dame Jane Francis, Ben Parker and Dom Maskell, Chris Bound, and Ben Dowling.
Also in this edition
University news
The latest institutional news from your university.
Class Notes
Updates and memories from your Southampton classmates.