We are aware that our Van Mildert College community comprises of Mildertians across the world and that, regardless of where you live, your life, your family and your work are undoubtedly being influenced by the escalating COVID-19 situation. Our thoughts are with you all at this challenging and uncertain time, and we hope that you and your loved ones are staying healthy and resilient.
At Van Mildert College, we are working hard to keep our students, our staff and our community safe, whilst still working towards our aim of supporting the student experience across a variety of aspects of College life, including;
- Following University and Government guidance, including supporting staff working from home. More information regarding the Durham University planning and response process can be found here.
- Members of the Principal’s Office continue to offer our student support services online via phone and video appointments whilst our dedicated Operations team of staff across catering, housekeeping, reception and porter staff are working hard to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those who remain in College
- Postponement of all Van Mildert alumni events until further notice – including the VMA Alumni Reunion Weekend due to take place on 10 – 12 July 2020.
Despite the escalating COVID-19 situation, our commitment to creating a support, inclusive and accessible community for all continues. Our dedicated students have established their own ‘De-isolating the Community’ initiative, encouraging Mildertians to reach out to members of the North East and beyond, currently in self-isolation. As members of our community, if you would like to know more about our project or would like to hear from one of our students, please email vm.development@durham.ac.uk.
Van Mildert is also delighted to announce that we have been featured in the most recent edition of the Parliamentary Review. Co-chaired by Lord Pickles and Lord Blunkett, The Parliamentary Review is an indispensable guide to best practice across a variety of different areas, showcasing various examples from steadfast organisations in the public and private sectors. The College is proud to be featured in the Further and Higher Education services section for our vibrant social environment and focus on student development. In the Parliamentary Review article, a full version of which can be found here, we made the following statement; ‘the Van Mildert Community is, we hope, a community for life’. In these uncertain times, we would encourage you to stay in touch with this College community, be this with the College itself, or through your own community networks.
Our thoughts are with our community of alumni and friends across the world. Please stay safe and support those around you (sic vos non vobis).
Professor David Harper and Dr Victoria Brown
Principal and Deputy Principal of Van Mildert College