The School of Economics and Finance marks 60th anniversary with special Peston Lecture
Last week, the School of Economics and Finance at Queen Mary University of London celebrated its 60th anniversary with a special edition of the prestigious Peston Lecture, bringing together students, staff, alumni, and partners for an evening of reflection and forward-looking discussion
The School was honoured to welcome Nick Bloom of Stanford University, who delivered a lecture titled “The Economic Impact of Brexit: Should We Have Listened to the Experts?” Drawing on new micro- and macroeconomic data, the talk examined how forecasts made a decade ago compare with the realised effects on GDP, investment, and employment. The lecture sparked a lively and insightful discussion during the Q&A session.
The Q&A was hosted by Robert Peston, Political Editor of ITV News and son of Lord Maurice Peston, the founder of the School. His expert perspective added depth to the discussion and provided valuable context to the themes explored in the lecture.
The event was opened by Dame Colette Bowe, one of the School’s earliest students, who shared reflections on her distinguished career and her personal connection to the founding years of the School of Economics and Finance.
The evening provided an opportunity to reflect on the School’s achievements over the past six decades, while also looking ahead to the future of economics and finance education and research. Proceedings concluded with a drinks reception in the Graduate Centre, where attendees continued conversations, reconnected with colleagues, and celebrated this significant milestone.
The School extends its sincere thanks to Professor Bloom, Robert Peston, Dame Colette Bowe, and all those who joined for what was a memorable and meaningful celebration.