Oxford’s Meeting Minds Weekend is an annual event organized by the University of Oxford, designed to reconnect alumni with the university and each other. This vibrant and stimulating weekend features a diverse program of academic talks, lectures, workshops, and social events.
Distinguished speakers from various fields, including journalism, politics, and science, share their insights and expertise, fostering an engaging atmosphere of intellectual exchange.
Participants also have the opportunity to explore Oxford’s historic sites through guided walking tours, attend creative writing workshops, and participate in interactive sessions that highlight the latest research and developments across different disciplines. Meeting Minds is an excellent occasion for alumni to revisit their alma mater, network with fellow graduates, and immerse themselves in the rich academic and cultural heritage of Oxford University.
What to expect at Oxford’s Meeting Minds Weekend
Oxford’s Meeting Minds Weekend is an enriching event dedicated to lifelong learning and community building among the university’s alumni. Held annually, this dynamic weekend brings together graduates from around the world, offering a platform to engage with cutting-edge research and contemporary issues.
The event is known for its varied and in-depth sessions, where attendees can delve into topics ranging from the latest scientific discoveries to cultural and societal trends. Beyond academic enrichment, Meeting Minds Weekend emphasizes networking, providing numerous opportunities for alumni to reconnect with old friends and forge new connections within the Oxford community.
Some of the activities include:
- Interactive workshops and hands-on activities are a hallmark of the event, allowing participants to engage directly with experts and peers.
- These sessions cover a wide range of interests, from technology and innovation to the arts and humanities, ensuring there is something for everyone.
- The weekend often features exclusive access to some of Oxford’s most iconic and historic venues, offering a unique backdrop for the discussions and events.
- Social gatherings, dinners, and informal meet-ups further enhance the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among attendees.
- Meeting Minds Weekend is not just an academic retreat; it’s a celebration of the enduring bond between Oxford and its alumni.
- The event highlights the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering a global community of thinkers and leaders.
Access Past Oxford’s Meeting Minds + Videos
The 2023 event has many talks available online. These include:
- Betty And Barbara: Elect Me For What I Am, Not What I Was Born. A tribute to Baroness Boothroyd of Sandwell OM PC (1929 – 2023), the first female Speaker of the House of Commons, and Baroness Castle of Blackburn PC (1910 – 2002), the only female First Secretary of State who served as Deputy to Prime Minister Harold Wilson. Veronica Lowe discussed their remarkable achievements with The Rt. Hon. Theresa May MP, Anne Perkins, and Revd Dr Margaret Joachim MBE (video)
- The Power Of Free Speech. This panel discussion, chaired by Lord Patten of Barnes, delved into the complexities surrounding free speech across different platforms— in person, in print, and online. The discussion addressed why free speech is being challenged, its implications for society, and the role of universities in this context (video)
- Better Thinking: The Art Of The Shortcut. Professor du Sautoy shared insights from his new book, Thinking Better: The Art of the Shortcut, which highlights the power of mathematics in problem-solving (video)
- AI Transforming Biochemistry Research: Chromosomes, Antibiotic Resistance And Neurodegeneration. Members of the Biochemistry Department presented a series of talks on the innovative applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). They discussed how AI has deepened our understanding of fundamental life processes, its use in predicting new molecular causes of nervous system diseases, and its role in designing new antibiotics (video)
Oxford’s Meeting Minds 2024
The University is excited to announce the action-packed Meeting Minds 2024 weekend.
In 2024, you will be able to explore a variety of live talks, panels, and tours, with opportunities to network with fellow alumni and visit your college and department. All sessions are in-person this year, with no online content.
Most session tickets cost £15, and you can book multiple sessions here, though tour bookings are limited to two due to capacity.
