Dr SΘamus Heaney has launched a campaign to raise £150 million to fund the expansion of Queen's University, Belfast, writes Michael Bradley. The money will be used to provide a new student centre, a student village offering accommodation for around 1,800 students, a new library and academic and medical research initiatives. It is also intends to create a scholarship scheme to improve access to Queen's.
A former student and member of staff, Dr Heaney gave the opening speech at last night's event. "The guiding principle behind the Campaign for Queen's is the one encapsulated in the motto we use: Pro tanto quid retribuamus? - In return for so much what shall we give back?
"Any graduate of Queen's will be susceptible to the deep appeal in these words, but think of how much more susceptible I am bound to feel. I have been given more by my alma mater than I ever could have imagined", he said.
Dr Heaney later read a poem - For Alma Mater - which he composed for the occasion.