The University of Kent held a special event to celebrate the generosity of its benefactors on Saturday 9th March. The evening began with a drinks reception hosted by Fitzgerald Jewellers which provided a much-welcomed opportunity for University staff to thank some of its supporters for their invaluable support.
Professor Shane Weller, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “The support of our donors is truly transformative. Their contributions enable us to enrich the musical experiences of our students, establish life-changing scholarships and bring a wealth of exciting projects to life. We are so grateful to them for their ongoing commitment.”
He added: “A special thank you must go to Trevor Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Jewellers for his generous hospitality in hosting the reception. The venue provided a perfect setting for our evening of connection and appreciation. We would also like to extend our thanks to Jon Mills from Canterbury Brewers and Distillers for providing a wonderful selection of drinks, enjoyed by all throughout the evening.”
Following the reception, the University’s guests were treated to the spectacular Colyer-Fergusson Cathedral Concert held in Canterbury Cathedral. This special performance by the University Chorus and the Symphony Orchestra brought together students, staff and members of the local community, all united by their love of music. The programme featured two beloved masterpieces: Brahms’ majestic Symphony No. 4 and Fauré’s poignant Requiem. The combined talents of the performers created an unforgettable musical experience that resonated deeply with the audience.
The entire evening served as a beautiful testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative potential of philanthropy. The University of Kent is incredibly grateful to its generous benefactors, whose gifts allow us to deliver exceptional educational experiences, foster a vibrant musical culture and support our wider community.
