Forward Together: 50 Years of Women at Sidney Sussex College

Saturday 14 - Sunday 15 February 2026

Celebrating a Milestone in Academic Inclusion

Join us for a special weekend as Sidney proudly commemorates five decades of women’s contribution to academic life and community. This two-day event brings together all alumni, students, and friends - regardless of gender or identity - for inspiring conversations, engaging panels, and a celebratory dinner. This is purposely timed to honour Lady Frances Sidney and the 430th anniversary of our Foundress' Day.

In addition to the events listed below, we are delighted to present two new exhibitions. In the College Library, The Female Pen showcases works by authors from Sappho to Christina Rossetti, alongside a selection of publications by female Fellows of Sidney. This display will remain open throughout the weekend for you to explore. In the Hall, Celebration (Diana Scarborough, local artist-engineer, 2026) is a two‑screen multimedia installation honouring female scholarship at Sidney. Photographs of women Fellows holding objects that reflect their research, identity, or aspirations - composed with the symbolism and stillness of Dutch still life painting - appear within gilded frames on sensor‑activated stands. As visitors move through the space, the screens reveal new paired portraits, offering thirty images in ever‑changing combinations that invite passers‑by to become active participants, discovering unexpected visual connections across disciplines and stories.

Programme Highlights

Saturday 14 February

  • 1.00pm - 2.00pm
    Buffet Lunch in the Old Kitchens (seating in Hall and Old Parlour)
     
  • 2.00pm - 3.30pm
    Elective Panels
    Choose from three thought-provoking discussions:
    • Cognitive diversity, brain health, and social equity: How science can empower communities, challenge bias, and support inclusive policy and practice - Dr Maura Malpetti, Fellow and Director of Studies, specialising in dementia, neurology, brain imaging and biomarkers.
    • Authentic Leadership: Making your voice heard without compromise - a fresh take on what it means to lead without losing yourself - Jess Tayenjam (2007, MML), chair of CURUFC and Innovation and Cultural Transformation Consultant
    • Educating Generation Alpha: A dynamic conversation exploring how today’s youngest learners are reshaping education - Mary Davies MBE (1986, MML), Education Consultant and former CEO of the Maiden Erlegh Trust,  Victoria Penty, former primary school headteacher, Dr Catherine Sumnall (2002, Geography), Fellow, Admissions Director, and Director of Studies for Geography, and Danni Elliot, Bye-Fellow and Head of Student Wellbeing 
       
  • 3.30pm - 4.15pm
    Refreshments in the Old Kitchens and Audit Room
     
  • 4.15pm- 5.30pm
    Fireside Chat
    Breaking Barriers: Women, Power, and Public Voice in a Changing Britain
    Speakers: Carol Vorderman MBE in conversation with Dame Kelly Holmes
     
  • 5.45pm - 6.15pm
    Choir Recital in Chapel
     
  • 6.30pm - 7.30pm
    Drinks Reception in the Master’s Lodge and Old Library
     
  • 7.30pm - 10.00pm
    Celebration Dinner in Hall and Mong Hall
     
  • 10.00pm - Late
    College Bar open

Sunday 15 February

  • 10.00am - 12.00pm
    Brunch in the Old Kitchens
     
  • 11.00am - 12.30pm
    Open Sports Sessions:
    • Rowing - organised by the Boat Club with the option of fielding up to two boats
    • Football - either joining an open training session or taking part in a friendly match at the new Mumford Pitch - the newly transformed, floodlit, 3G artificial pitch at Grange Road

  • 12.30pm - 2.00pm
    Closing Conversation:
    The Forward Together working group share their vision for the future of Sidney Sussex, followed by light refreshments

    Attendees are also very welcome to stay for Choral Evensong that will begin at the normal time of 6pm and will feature an all-female composers lineup, including our previous Composer in Residence, Joanna Marsh. The Rt Revd Dr Dagmar Winter (acting Bishop of Ely) will be preaching.

    We look forward to welcoming you for this landmark celebration!

    Given the limited capacity of College rooms, we are currently inviting expressions of interest for guests.