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As you’ll read below, the Development and Alumni Relations Office’s autumn Bangor Fund telethon campaign is currently in full swing. Our team of student callers have been delighted to hear your stories about your time in Bangor and to tell you about the ways in which donations from our alumni help today’s students. Thank you to all of you who have taken the time to speak to our students – it really does brighten our day to hear how affectionately our alumni speak of their time here at the University.

The evening will feature some of the band’s favourite performances from over the years, including classic pieces such as Men of Harlech, Highland Cathedral, and Puttin’ on the Ritz, along with some fun, feel-good pop hits like Runaway Baby and I Gotta Feeling.

The concert will be held on Saturday, 29 November, 6:00pm – 8:00pm in 91�����’s Prichard Jones Hall. Tickets cost £5 and can be booked .

‘Joy’ tells the story of in vitro fertilisation (IVF), pioneered by 91����� alumnus Sir Robert Edwards, which led to the birth of the world’s first ‘test tube baby’ Louise Joy Brown.

The film is told through the perspective of Jean Purdy, a young nurse and embryologist who joined forces with scientist Robert Edwards and surgeon Patrick Steptoe to unlock the puzzle of infertility by pioneering IVF. Since then, millions of babies have been born worldwide thanks to IVF – a testament to the life-changing impact of their work.

We were privileged to be joined by acclaimed actor Joanna Scanlan for a Q&A session before the free screening. Joanna plays Jean Purdy’s ultra-religious mother Gladys in ‘Joy’ and gave her insights into working on the film to a full house in Pontio's cinema.

Dr Nia Jones Dean of Medicine and Deputy Head of School at 91����� who hosted the Q&A said: “Sir Robert Edwards’s work continues to inspire generations of scientists and students not only in Bangor, but also world-wide. His legacy reminds us how curiosity, perseverance, connection and compassion can come together to change and create millions of lives. Welcoming actress Joanna Scanlan back to Bangor to celebrate his story through the film ‘Joy’ not only honours his remarkable contribution to science but also reflects our enduring connection between creativity, research, and humanity.”

Ryan was born with Bilateral Congenital Talipes Equinovarus — “clubfoot” - a condition where your feet turn inward, affecting mobility. After nearly three decades of pain, Ryan underwent a below-the-knee amputation on his right leg in 2024 and, as someone with a physical disability, this challenge will also highlight the vital role of accessibility and inclusion in conservation. This project aims to show that adventure and conservation are possible — and meaningful — for everyone.

Ahead of his mission, Ryan contacted Sir David – himself a 91����� Honorary Degree recipient - for his blessing and was delighted to receive a letter in return wishing him all the best!

You can see Ryan’s introductory video .

Good luck Ryan!

The University has extensive expertise in AI and data across its disciplines including the highly successful Welsh Large Language Model, developed by 91����� in partnership with University College London and NVIDIA . This project exemplifies how AI can transform lives, support public services across Great Britain, and help preserve the Welsh language and culture.

Professor Edmund Burke, Vice-Chancellor, said: "Securing the AI Growth Zone status for Anglesey and Gwynedd is incredibly exciting. It recognises the region’s potential as a centre for innovation and sustainable economic growth.   When combined with the powerful offer of the University’s research base, the investment in the Albert Gubay Business School and the highly successful Menai Science Park we are uniquely positioned to lead in developing the skills, partnerships and technologies that will shape the future of AI creating high value business and career opportunities across the region."