LBS alumni enjoy Campaign Celebration at London’s V&A Museum
Four hundred alumni gathered at the V&A’s most beautiful galleries on an autumnal evening to celebrate London Business School’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign.
The Dean, Sir Andrew Likierman, said he was “amazed” and “privileged” to be part of the efforts that achieved more than £125m and 124,000 volunteer hours in just three years to support scholarships, academic posts and a new building: the target was £100m and 100,000 hours in five years.
He said that, as an accountant, he was delighted by the symmetry of the £25m launch gift from Idan Ofer and the £25m closing gift from Jim Ratcliffe – and by the many other gifts and volunteer hours that are critical in securing a successful future for LBS.
The Raphael Gallery – named for the Italian Master who created the series of tapestry cartoons displayed in the hall – echoed with alumni cheers, which were renewed for a series of stories and presentations demonstrating LBS alumni impact on business around the world.
Even one person can make an impact on a national economy, as Thiri Thant Mon MBA2006 related in a film shot in Myanmar.
Dr Crystal Ruff MBA2016 opened up a window on the world of regenerative neuroscience: she is using her business skills to ensure specialist knowledge translates into benefits for all.
Brian Forde MBA2012, used to enlightening heads of state and Fortune 500 CEOs about Bitcoin and Blockchain, showed how revolutionary this disruptive technology can be in emerging economies.
Professor Herminia Ibarra, Visiting Professor of Organisational Behaviour and first holder of the Charles Handy Chair, inspired everyone to step up to a bigger leadership role – the subject of her recent book, Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader.
Dr Jérémie Gallien, Associate Professor of Management Science and Operations, explained how his supply chain work at retailer Zara translates into life-saving systems for distributing anti-malaria and HIV medication in sub-Saharan Africa.
The celebrations are being repeated in 90 cities around the world, including special events in São Paulo, New York, Dubai, Mumbai, Hong Kong and Sydney.
