The 1326 Society

Impact of the 1326 Society

The loyal and committed support of 1326 Society members ensures Oriel continues to thrive. Gifts from this dedicated group positively impact all aspects of the College’s mission, from scholarships for talented students to funding for academic research, as well as help to preserve Oriel’s historic buildings.

More than 300 alumni and friends have become members of the 1326 Society since its founding in 2012. We hope you will consider joining them. Society members’ gifts make a difference each and every day.

• One person giving £1,326 could provide much-needed funding for an academic to pursue a research project or cover conference fees and travel for a PhD student.
• 10 people giving £13,260 could provide critical hardship funding for students facing unexpected financial difficulties or help to support Oriel’s outreach work to encourage talented under-represented students access a world-class education.
• 50 people giving £66,300 could provide vital funding toward the endowment of a tutorial fellowship post or help to support a junior research fellowship for an outstanding early-career academic.

How will you make a difference?

Supporting the next generation of Orielenses

Oriel remains committed to attracting the best and brightest students, regardless of their socio-economic circumstances. Scholarship, financial support, extra-curricular, and other types of funding are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Each year the need grows. Gifts to student support funds change lives—opening the door to an Oriel education and helping students reach their full potential.

Sustaining world-class teaching and research

Teaching is at the heart of Oriel’s mission and the tutorial system produces outstanding graduates. This cornerstone of an Oxford education is expensive and under threat. Oriel depends on philanthropic support to protect this unique approach to learning and teaching. The College’s Fellows are leading academics whose teaching and research creates a vibrant and collaborative intellectual community. Gifts help Oriel to recruit and retain the very best Fellows.

Preserving the historic environment

Conserving Oriel’s ancient buildings and refurbishing facilities to serve the learning and social needs of today’s community are key priorities. Gifts safeguard the College’s historic site by supporting essential maintenance and projects revitalizing and reimagining our current space—ensuring Oriel’s beloved architecture and gathering places are enjoyed for years to come.

Recognition and benefits of membership

• Annual drinks reception in London
• Special recognition in the Oriel Record
• 1326 pin badge
• Termly invitation to 1326 Guest Night at High Table in hall

Join the 1326 Society

There are three levels of giving which qualify alumni and friends for membership:

Alumni and Friends Membership for those who donate £1,326 or more each year as a single gift renewed annually or regular recurring gift (e.g. £110.50 a month).

Alumni 15–20 Membership (15-20 years after matriculation) for those who donate £700 or more each year as a single gift renewed annually or as a regular recurring gift (e.g. £58.34 a month). This new level celebrates the upcoming 700th anniversary of Oriel’s founding.

Alumni 0–15 Membership (within 15 years of matriculation) for those who donate £132.60 or more each year as a single gift renewed annually or as a regular recurring gift (e.g. £11.05 a month).

To join the 1326 Society, please contact Bobby Higson or make a gift online.