Photographs from the Event

Over 185 alumni and guests were welcomed by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Robert Burgess to the Alumni Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, London on 17th February.

This special black tie event proved to be an evening full of surprises as a power cut turned Knightsbridge into darkness.  Leicester alumni showed their resilience and determination to have a good time as the Reception was extended with free drinks until power was restored.  The event provided a great opportunity for guests to meet friends old and new and to enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, prepared by the Mandarin’s renowned chefs.

The second surprise of the evening was reserved for the recipient of the inaugural Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award, presented to Professor Nilesh Samani, in recognition of his distinguished academic and professional career spanning over 30 years in Leicester.  Professor Samani, who is Head of the University’s Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and a prestigious British Heart Foundation Chair in Cardiology, was acclaimed for his world-leading research in the field of cardiovascular science, and the life-changing difference he has made for patients and families suffering from cardiovascular diseases in Leicestershire and across the UK.

There was much laughter and fun on the night and special thanks go to our alumni and their guests, who showed great patience while the lights were out, and the sponsors of our raffle.  Some great prizes were donated by the Bar Boulud restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the Geffrye Museum, Tate Britain and Friends for Leather.  We hope the winners enjoy their prizes.

Photographs from the Event

Feedback about the evening:

"Despite the lack of lighting we found it a jolly evening overall."

"The Mandarin Oriental staff are to be congratulated on serving an excellent meal in spite of the extremely difficult situation thrust upon them. Everyone rose to the occasion and made it an evening to remember. Although we knew no-one there, we were seated with people with similar interests and enjoyed their company."

"It was a great evening. I can only applaud both the hotel and the Leicester Alumni staff on how they managed to make it such a good event given the loss of power for over two hours..."