Over the course of two weeks, 12 Balliol students picked up the phone to connect with Old Members around the world. In total, they made 317 calls, speaking with Old Members who, as ever, responded with great generosity. More than half of those they spoke with chose to support the College, often through regular donations that make a real difference to Balliol’s long-term future. Thank you to everyone who took the time to speak with student callers and to those who made gifts in support of Balliol’s work.
Thanks to your generosity, Balliol can extend opportunities to a wider range of students, provide meaningful financial support, offer a safe home for those fleeing conflict and repression through the Sanctuary Fund, and strengthen graduate education.
Alongside this vital support, the Telethon brought together current students and Old Members in conversations that crossed generations and continents, reflecting the enduring strength of the Balliol community. Many calls developed into rich exchanges shaped by shared academic interests, from medical statistics and philosophy to atomic engineering and English poetry. In some cases, students spoke with Old Members whose careers closely mirrored their own aspirations, leading to particularly rewarding discussions about research, career paths, and life after Balliol. As one student caller, Kate Lampo, reflected: ‘My favourite part of the Telethon was getting to chat with Old Members who also studied Engineering. Speaking with each of them about how their careers progressed really proved to me how varied and interesting jobs in my field can be.’
Other moments were more unexpected, and often memorable. One caller was introduced mid-conversation to a ‘Balliol baby’, born to two Old Members. Another spoke with an alumnus who later noted that, despite the generational gap, they had discovered ‘a lot of similar interests’.
A recurring theme in many conversations was the enduring place Balliol holds in the lives of Old Members. Student caller Evie Askew observed: ‘The universal generosity of spirit and unwavering affection for the College was palpable over the phone and even across oceans.’ Another, Callum Webb, noted: ‘It was lovely to hear that people still feel a part of the Balliol community, and that Balliol plays a big role in their lives.’ For Kitty Fisher, taking part in the Telethon was itself a highlight: ‘It was a pleasure to speak with so many generous Old Members who were still full of fondness for Balliol all these years later. The Telethon became a real highlight to look forward to each evening.’
The College would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone who supported Balliol this year. If you were not able to take part but would still like to be involved, you can donate online or contact the Development Office at development.office@balliol.ox.ac.uk.