Enterprise Lectures
The Enterprise Lecture Series, launched in 2003, has grown into one of the highlights of the University's annual Knowledge Exchange calendar
The aim of the lectures is to offer students, staff and members of the community the opportunity to hear first-hand from fascinating, inspiring and creative people who have been successful in their field, focussing on those who have been entrepreneurial and have made a real difference.
Enterprise Lectures begin at 18.30, with refreshments served from 18.00. To find out more or to reserve seats, EMAIL US or phone 01962 827578.
Latest Enterprise Lectures
Tuesday 15 May 2012: Professor Alastair Bruce OBE, Diamond Jubilee: why have one?
Venue: The Stripe, King Alfred Campus, Sparkford Road, Winchester SO22 4NR
In the build-up to The Queen's Diamond Jubilee, this lecture looked at what the event is for, the provenance of jubilees and the way Britain marks and responds to its monarchy, as well as the international recognition of Elizabeth II and how this has been achieved. It evaluated long reigns and the effect of symbolic continuity on national life through changing times. In the context of the social change over the last 60 years, Professor Bruce asked how the Diamond Jubilee might have been celebrated in 1952, and what the mood and style of the 2012 Jubilee are likely to be.
The word, ‘jubilee’, he explained, derives from the Hebrew word ‘yobel’, a Jewish ram’s horn that was blown on celebratory days, and the first Christian Jubilee was celebrated in 1300. Other monarchs who reached a 50-year reign are Edward III, King James VI of Scotland, King George III (first Royal Jubilee) and Queen Victoria.
George VI died on 6 February 1952, and Prof. Bruce reminded the audience that although people celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's accession day, it is a sad day for her as it is the anniversary of her father’s death. When she married HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, there were huge celebrations - also in times of austerity. Events such as the funerals of the Queen Mother and Diana Princess of Wales, and weddings such as Prince William and Kate Middleton are extremely popular with the public. "People care, and they like the human factor. The Queen is a woman, a mother, and a grandmother. Why have a Diamond Jubilee? Why not?”
Alastair Bruce of Crionaich, OBE, a descendent of Robert the Bruce, is the National Event Commentator for Sky News and the BBC. Prof. Bruce, who has recently acted as historical advisor for Downton Abbey and The King's Speech, is the author of Days of majesty and Keepers of the kingdom: the ancient offices of Britain. He was appointed Fitzalan Pursuivant of Arms Extraordinary by the Queen with responsibility for heraldry, and played a key role in the development of the University's Coat of Arms. In 2011 he was awarded an Honorary Professorship by the University.
14 March 2012: Disability Sports Ambassador Geoff Holt MBE, No excuses - a voyage around Britain and through life
The latest Enterprise Lecture was given by Geoff Holt MBE. An ex-professional yachtsman with many ocean crossings under his belt, Geoff was paralysed from the chest down in a swimming accident in 1984. Nevertheless, in 2007 he completed his 'Personal Everest' challenge, sailing 1445 miles solo around Great Britain in a fragile dinghy. In January 2010, Geoff completed his 'Personal Atlantic' challenge, sailing 2700 miles in a purpose-built, wheelchair-accessible catamaran named 'Impossible Dream'. Geoff had previously appeared as a speaker at the Winchester Writers' Conference to talk about his book Walking on Water. In 2010 he received an MBE for services to disabled sailing and an Honorary Degree from the University.