A Note from the President
Welcome to Durham and the Michaelmas term of the Durham Union Society! When I joined the Union, I had no idea how much the broad range of high-quality speakers would challenge my own way of thinking, or how many brilliant friends I would make. I was aware that the Union brought in speakers, but the level of access never ceased to amaze me, such as having the opportunity to have a one-on-one chat with Sir Vince Cable about voting reform.
This term ushers a welcome return to normality arriving at last. I can’t wait to see you in our chamber on Palace Green for one of our excellent debates or addresses, or at our fantastic bar at 24 North Bailey.
Whilst a return to pre-Covid style events is brilliant, the Union will continue to look forwards to finding new ways to serve our members and the community at large. I am pleased to announce that this term will be the first in Union history where, subject to meeting the criteria, students who cannot afford membership will be offered a discounted access membership.
A Union membership is an essential part of the full student experience at Durham, a place to listen and interact with world class speakers, a place to make friends beyond your college and course, a place to enjoy the best of what studying at Durham has to offer. Personal circumstance should be no barrier.
As the University’s oldest and largest society, we have an extremely exciting term planned. However, it would be amiss not to note that this has been built on the foundation left by the person originally elected as Michaelmas President by our membership, Maddie. She has sadly had to take a year out owing to personal circumstance and as a dear friend, I wish Maddie the very best, and hope I can do her term justice as Acting President.
I hope you have a wonderful term, stay safe and keep thinking!
