The University and the Edinburgh University Brussels Society hosted the first European Alumni Dinner in Brussels.

The pre-Christmas dinner was held at the historic Cercle Royal Gaulois.

More than 80 guests attended, including alumni from Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Italy, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland.

The event gave alumni the chance to keep in touch with the University’s continuing evolution, tighten bonds with their fellow graduates and learn how top best collaborate for Edinburgh’s long-term benefit.

The next European Alumni Dinner is expected to be held in November.

Young Dawkins, Vice-Principal of Development said, "This event was a wonderful opportunity for all of us to exchange views and opinions and celebrate being part of the University of Edinburgh."

The guest speaker at the event was Edinburgh graduate, the Rt. Hon. Professor Sir David Edward, who was President of the Bars and Law Societies of the European Community from 1978 to 1980 and was the United Kingdom judge in the Court of Justice of the European Communities from 1992 to 2004.

From 1985-1989 Sir David was the Salvesen Professor of European Institutions and Director of the Europa Institute at the University of Edinburgh. He is currently Honorary Chairman of the Europa Institute.

Professor Stephen Hillier, Vice-Principal, International, said, "The University of Edinburgh has always been a powerful magnet to scholars from the four corners of the globe, not least Europe. As a flagship international university we celebrate the valuable contributions our students and staff make to life in Europe and beyond."

Posted: 12th January 2010

Related Links
Gallery of images from the event
Edinburgh University Brussels Society