In November 2025 Newcastle University celebrated the return of its graduates from across the United States. The Autumn 2025 US visit brought together more than 4,000 alumni to strengthen ties, launch new networks, and showcase the university’s commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
Building a Strong Alumni Community on the East Coast
Newcastle University’s alumni base in America now exceeds 4,000 names, with a significant concentration in New England and the greater New York area. The recent tour facilitated the creation of two dedicated alumni networks: the New York / New England Network and the Washington D.C. Network. Both organisations provide a platform for graduates to share career insights, mentor each other, and keep engaging with the university’s mission. Lead volunteers, such as Class‑of‑1979 alumnus Siamac Vaghar, described the gatherings as “an opportunity to reconnect with former lecturers, classmates, and the iconic Newcastle culture” that their students brought to the United States.
Launching the New York / New England Network
The network, which now surrounds 300 graduates in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York, held several high‑energy meet‑ups during the visit. Activities ranged from a friendly football match against Newcastle United, to a brunch that highlighted shared memories of campus life, and a meeting that outlined plans for a summer speaker series.
Expanding the Washington D.C. Network
A new chapter of the Washington D.C. Network opened on the Southern side of the capital. The inauguration, held at Founding Farmers Fishers & Bakers, featured a networking brunch and a discussion about how alumni can support research, student enrichment and philanthropy from abroad. The group plans a “watch‑party” for the Newcastle‑Sunderland derby in December, underscoring the enduring connection to university football culture.
Key Highlights from the Autumn 2025 Visit
The tour, coordinated by the Alumni Relations Office and the Office of Corporate and Community Partnerships, included several headline events that linked alumni experiences with current university initiatives.
Boston: Football, Fun, and Community Spirit
Boston hosted the first formal gathering where alumni gathered at the university’s Alesso bar to watch Newcastle United play against Arsenal. The event was a lively mix of cheers, shared stories and celebrations of the alumni’s affection for Newcastle’s “magpie pride.” Volunteers praised the sense of community that “an unfiltered bond between former students and those still pursuing a degree” can create.
New York: Spotlight on NCL in Action
The New York stop marked the official launch of the NCL in Action program, a partnership with the university’s Institute for Global Policy and Professional Development. The keynote speaker was Professor Paul Kennedy, a distinguished historian and Newcastle alumnus, who delivered a fireside chat on “Rifts and Shifts in World Affairs.” Alumni, such as Dr Robert Overell, praised the chance to connect with scholars who are shaping academic discourse on an international level. The event also featured a moderated Q&A that encouraged attendees to explore potential collaborations with the university’s research centers.
Washington D.C.: Brunch, Networking, and Future Planning
The final stop emphasized both networking and forward‑planning. Alumni enjoyed a brunch at a local farm‑to‑table restaurant while discussing the university’s alumni roadmap. The Washington D.C. group announced a December watch‑party for the Newcastle‑Sunderland derby, a tradition that fosters community engagement across majors and fields.
Upcoming Opportunities for US Alumni
Through the new networks, alumni now have a guaranteed channel to receive timely updates on events, conferences, and professional development opportunities. Below are key ways to stay involved:
- Join the LinkedIn group for US‑based alumni: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2143186/
- Update your contact details: Ensure Newcastle University can reach you for event invitations and annual reports. Update here
- Volunteer for the Washington D.C. Network: Lead or support upcoming events such as the derby watch‑party or a local mentorship program. Contact the advancement office
- Explore the NCL in Action series: Scholars and industry leaders share insights on emerging trends. Learn more
- Share your experience: Contribute to the Alumni newsletter or speak at an alumni event. Submit your story
How to Stay Connected and Get Involved
For alumni who wish to make a sustained contribution to the university, there are several practical steps:
- Follow the university’s social media channels for real‑time updates and behind‑the‑scenes content.
- Sign up for monthly newsletters that feature alumni spotlights, research highlights, and conference abstracts.
- Participate in the alumni study discounts program if you are pursuing further education. These concessions allow you to enroll in postgraduate courses with significant savings.
- Consider sponsoring a scholarship or contribution to the Trust and Foundation. Funding supports research initiatives and provides scholarships for students from diverse backgrounds.
- Attend regional network events, where industry professionals often engage in roundtable discussions on technology, business, and social impact.
These milestones illustrate how Newcastle University keeps its alumni network active and vibrant. Whether you’re a recent graduate planning a career in the Pacific, a mid‑career professional seeking new collaborations, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to mentor the next generation, the alumni community is a resource you can rely on.
Conclusion: A Continuing Relationship
The Autumn 2025 US visit reaffirmed the university’s commitment to alumni engagement and international outreach. By establishing formal networks in New York, New England and Washington D.C., and by launching the NCL in Action program, Newcastle University has provided tangible pathways for graduates to continue learning, collaborating, and contributing. Keep your details up to date, join the online communities, and seize the upcoming events to deepen your connection with the university. The next chapter of your Newcastle journey is just a click away.
While the event calendar is already full for the next several months, we encourage every alumnus to engage early. Your participation not only enriches your professional life but also strengthens the Newcastle community worldwide.
