Three alumni laughing at the Warwick reunion in a lecture theatre

Re-connecting: Alumni came from all over the world for a reunion at WBS

Warwick Business School marked a milestone in the University of Warwick’s 60th anniversary by welcoming 180 alumni from 35 countries back to its campus. 

The event showcased the School’s global reach and alumni network, bringing together graduates from across almost six decades to reflect on the evolution of WBS and its vision for the future.  

It was part of the University of Warwick’s 60-year reunion during One World Warwick November to celebrate the institution’s global engagement and diverse international community. 

Andy Lockett, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship and Dean of WBS, welcomed the alumni back to the School. 

“Warwick Business School was founded on a spirit of innovation and challenge,” said Professor Lockett. “For nearly 60 years, we’ve been helping people turn ambition into action and equipping them to make a real impact in the world.  

“Our alumni are living proof of the impact of a Warwick education - leaders shaping industries, driving change, and inspiring others worldwide. 

“It was wonderful to see and meet so many of them at the School, especially those who travelled across the world to be part of the reunion. It is events like this when you realise how special this School and its alumni network is.” 

Educating reunion: Alumni have a look round the School's £1.2 million SmartStage® studio

The day featured thought-provoking presentations on research from Jo Horton, Professor of Accounting, and Neil Stewart, Professor of Behavioural Science, offering insights into cutting-edge work on behavioural science and financial fraud.  

Alumni also experienced a taster lecture by Bo Kelestyn, Associate Professor of Information Systems and Analytics, which highlighted the School’s commitment to new and innovative teaching methods. 

This included demonstrations of the School’s award-winning £1.2 million SmartStage®, an extended reality online teaching studio, and immersive virtual reality headsets at the Gillmore Centre for Financial Technology, showcasing how WBS integrates digital innovation into learning.  

On LinkedIn, MSc Marketing & Strategy graduate Trisha Nagpal revealed she met the woman instrumental in helping start her career as a Digital Marketing Manager at the reunion.  

“Meeting Kate Brønserud from the WBS CareersPlus team - someone who played a key role during my job application journey and being able to thank her in person felt like a full-circle moment,” said Trisha. 
 
“I was able to pause and reflect on how Warwick has shaped my thinking, work ethic, and long-term professional direction. 

Immersed: Alumni try out VR headsets at the Gillmore Centre for Financial Technology's Fintech Innovation Lab

“Returning to campus reinforced one thing: education is not just a degree - it’s a foundation, a network, and a mindset that continues to shape what comes next. Grateful to always be part of the Warwick Business School community.” 

The celebration also included a podcast listening room featuring the School’s Lead Out Loud, a podcast that brings senior leaders from industry together with academics to discuss leadership.  

Sarah Pymm, Director of Global Alumni Engagement, reminded attendees of the enduring value of the WBS network. 

She said: “Reconnecting isn’t just nostalgic - it’s strategic. Our alumni community is a global powerhouse of knowledge and opportunity. 

“This reunion showed that graduating from WBS is just the beginning of a lifelong relationship with the School. As alumni embark on their career they have the support of a vibrant global alumni community, access to a careers service and online resources, but most of all, a network that can provide the connections, guidance and motivation that you need to achieve your ambitions.” 

Discover more about Warwick Business School’s Change Makers.