Music, networking, and interdisciplinary discussions at SSE’s Inaugural Alumni event

13 May 2026

Last night, the School of Society and Environment’s (SSE) Inaugural Alumni Event united alumni from the School’s three disciplines for an evening of jazz, canapes and lively discussion.

Martin Coward, Head of School, welcomed the attendees and introduced the School of Society and Environment, and Richard Johnson, Director of Employability and Alumni opened a panel discussion on the question: “What new perspectives emerge when we study people, places, and power across disciplines?”

In his speech, Richard Johnson said to alumni: “Queen Mary is a real ladder for social mobility. In a world that is so unequal, it offers a chance that so many would not otherwise have, to achieve their dreams and achieve their true potential.”

Attendees included both recent graduates and graduates who have progressed in their careers becoming employers, creating a space where career opportunities can flourish.

During the event, SSE staff and alumni from different disciplines, ages, and interests, enjoyed refreshments to a background of jazz piano and ornate architecture in Queen Mary’s iconic Octagon event space.

Richard Johnson ended his speech a call to action:

“I am asking for your time, your experience, your insights, your connections. Demystify how your profession works. How to get in it. Whether you’re someone who graduated two years ago or 20 years ago or more! We as academics can only do so much.”

Many thanks to everyone attended, alumni, staff, event organisers and panel speakers: Professor Lee Jones – Professor in International Politics, Dr Andrew Smith - Senior Lecturer in Liberal Arts (and QHistory alum), Dr Colm Murphy – Senior Lecturer in British Politics (and also a QM History alum), and Melisa T. Slep -- PhD candidate in Geography.

Don’t miss out on our next alumni event, update your contact details here:

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/alumni/update-your-details/