Graduates returning for first commemoration lecture

THREE University of Dundee graduates, who have achieved great things in the worlds of broadcasting and politics, are returning to take part in the very first Drever Commemoration Lecture as part of the university’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

John Suchet, Sir William Patey and Lord George Robertson will be talking about their careers on Saturday.

They were all students at Dundee during James Drever’s time as the university’s principal.

John Suchet is a former foreign correspondent and current Classic FM presenter. Sir William is the former British Ambassador to Sudan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan, and remains one of the world’s leading experts on the Middle East.

Lord Robertson is a former Labour politician and was the 10th secretary of NATO.

James Drever was the institution’s first principal and was a passionate advocate for political discourse.

He encouraged students to strike and make stands against funding cuts.

The university’s current principal, Professor Sir Pete Downes, said: “Scientists have a saying that we stand on the shoulders of giants meaning that the science of today builds on the work of previous generations.

“In that sense successive principals of this university have all stood on the shoulders of James Drever, our first principal.

“In recognising Drever’s legacy it is especially fitting that we welcome back three giants among our alumni.

“They have either helped to shape or report on global events and I am sure they have some amazing stories to tell.”

The event takes place at the Dalhousie Building on Saturday from 6pm-7pm.

Free tickets are available at dundee.ac.uk/sels, by emailing events@ dundee.ac.uk or calling 01382 385108.

Professor Sir Pete Downes