Looking ahead to 2022…
April 2022
This spring, we will say farewell to Programmes Director, Polly Coupar-Hennessy. Polly has been an integral part of the charity since its inception in 2014. Her drive, passion, and optimism will surely be missed.
Ali Jaffer, Chair of the Linacre Institute’s Board of Trustees writes:
“Polly has been instrumental in the success of the Linacre Institute since its inception in 2014. Initially, she supported her husband and founder Paul with his all-consuming endeavour of setting up and running the charity right at the beginning with various aspects of teaching and tutoring.
More latterly she has been the organisation’s Programmes Director where she has supported hundreds of students through the programme and onto some of the country’s leading universities. During the pandemic especially this required clarity of thinking, an unwavering sense of purpose and the ability to think quickly and resiliently to ensure the charity could not only survive but consolidate through the pandemic. Polly will be sorely missed as she goes on to pastures new and goes with thanks from the organisation and its trustees.”
Schools & Programmer Co-ordinator
In January, Linacre welcomed Lydia Jackson (2016 Linacre cohort) to the team as the charity’s Schools & Programmes Co-ordinator. Lydia recently graduated from Leeds university with First-class honours and plans to split her time between Linacre and a part-time Masters in Renaissance Literature. She says:
“It’s amazing to be working with a charity that has made such a difference in my own life, and is so close to my heart!”
Linacre welcomes Dr Matthew John as Programmes Director
We’re delighted to welcome Linacre’s new Programme’s Director, Dr Matthew John. Matthew comes to us from the Contextual Outreach Team at the University of Leeds, which is responsible for delivering sustained outreach programmes within Yorkshire and the Humber and ensuring fair access to Higher Education for some of the most disadvantaged students in the region. Prior to that Matthew was a lecturer in French Literature and Film at the University. Matthew’s academic background, understanding of the university landscape and deep commitment to widening participation will stand the charity in excellent stead for the future. Welcome, Matthew!