More than £300,000 raised in Telephone Campaign 2026

13 current Oriel College students picked up the phone over a two-week period to connect with alumni from around the world, sharing stories from their time living and learning at Oriel, and the alumni shared memories of their time at the College in return.

Raised during Oriel’s 700th anniversary year, the funds will benefit student support and important restoration work of Oriel’s listed heritage site.

“The Telephone Campaign was a hugely rewarding experience from a personal perspective as well as for the evident benefits that it brings the College,” said student caller Flora, a third-year Engineering student.

“Hearing from people in such a wide range of industries was not only fascinating but very informative — and has brought me a lot of clarity on what my next steps might be.”

Emma Davis, Oriel College Regular Giving Officer, managed the campaign.

“This year’s campaign has been hugely successful thanks to the continued generosity of Orielenses,” she said.

“The funds raised through this campaign will be used across different areas of College which include important restoration work and vital student support, so our students can continue to thrive at Oriel regardless of their financial situation.

“My thanks go out to our team of students who took part in the Telephone Campaign and to Orielenses who not only donated but took the time to have some great conversations with the team and help inspire them with career advice as well as reminisce about Oriel days of the past.”