MCR Report The 2023-24 academic year has marked significant and pinnacle event, showcasing students’ musical talents and raising positive developments for the MCR. Despite starting with a thousands for Save the Children. small committee of continuing graduates, we kicked off the year with a highly successful Freshers' Week. Events included The MCR continued its efforts to foster a supportive, inclusive, online info sessions, the ‘Friends at Somerville’ scheme, an and accessible environment through welfare and EDI initiatives. Oxford walking tour, and a ‘Barbie-Heimer’ themed BOP. Schemes like prescription reimbursement/subsidizing provided This diverse, friendly, and social culture quickly attracted an economic relief for students needing medications. Welfare enlarged, cohesive committee team. Collaborating with senior massages and welfare animal visits were introduced to soothe College administrators and the wider Somerville Association, students during stressful times. Importantly, after years of we significantly improved the college life of many Somervillians planning and COVID-related interruptions, the completion of the throughout the year. lift project outside the Margery Fry House made our common room more accessible, benefiting all Somervillians in the future. The vibrant atmosphere of the MCR was maintained throughout the year with various activities such as Second During times of humanitarian crises in the conflict in Gaza, the Desserts after each guest night, Wine and Cheese nights, MCR demonstrated remarkable solidarity and compassion. We and celebrations of numerous ethnic festivals (Diwali, Lunar managed to pass statements of support and organize various New Year, Eid). We fostered friendly bonds with other colleges donation initiatives for Gaza. The courage and empathy shown through exchange formal dinners, brunches, and wine tastings. by Somervillians truly embodied the spirit of Somerville and will A particular highlight was our annual grand exchange trip with contribute to a better world in the future. Girton, our sister college at Cambridge. I am genuinely grateful for the exceptional teamwork of the Somervillians continue to excel in the areas beyond social lives. MCR committees and the tremendous support of each MCR The Academic Symposium tailored for the MCR provided an member during my tenure. Together, we have created a vibrant, MADDIE GORDON, JCR PRESIDENTinviting platform for students to showcase their outstanding supportive, and inclusive community that not only excelled in academic achievements and hone their presentation skills. social and academic endeavours but also demonstrated strong Our students’ enthusiasm for music shone brightly, with moral and humanitarian values. many participating in open mic nights, karaoke nights, and the inaugural piano lesson scheme. The Charity Concert was a DAVID (ZHEYI) CAO, MCR President MEMBERS OF THE MCR CELEBRATING THE COLLEGE'S NEW PROGRESS LANYARDS 19