Networking at Newnham

The Cambridge Trust works in partnership with all the Cambridge Colleges in a variety of ways, from co-funding scholarships to working together on innovations which improve the student experience.

The Trust has enjoyed strong collaboration with Newnham College over many years and this is reflected in the number of co-funded students at the College. There are currently 92 students representing 42 countries around the globe with Cambridge Trust Scholarships. 23 new scholars took up their places this academic year, joining 69 who are continuing their studies in a wide range of disciplines. Of these, 80 are studying for a PhD, seven for a Master’s degree and six are studying at undergraduate level.

Founded in 1871, Newnham is the oldest Cambridge College run by women, for women. While other Colleges have become coeducational, many students are drawn to the unique enabling environment that Newnham offers for gender equality, women’s leadership, and academic excellence.

Last week, Helen Pennant, Director of the Cambridge Trust, and Alison Rose, Principal of Newnham College, co-hosted a networking event for the students, both to celebrate their achievements and to welcome the new cohort who have recently joined.

Helen congratulated the students on having been awarded a scholarship following a rigorous selection process. She thanked the Principal and her colleagues for working with the Trust constructively and flexibly over many years to enable students to pursue study and research at Cambridge.

Alison spoke about her own experience as a new student and her delight that so many students are supported by the Trust at the College, commenting “Women are still underrepresented overall amongst those studying for research degrees, and badly underrepresented in some subjects. So we are delighted that the Trust helps Newnham by providing financial support for so many doctoral students”.