SJC Women's Network eNewsletter - April 2026

This edition brings together stories that celebrate curiosity, creativity, and connection — from the past narratives of the archives of St John’s to the fellowship and lived experiences of our community today.

We’re delighted to begin with a rich piece from College Archivist, Michael Riordan, on ‘The Austens at Oxford’, an exhibition held in the College Library in Michaelmas term marking the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. The exhibition offered a fascinating glimpse into the Austen family’s long-standing links with St John’s, and a reminder of how the St John’s history continues to intersect with wider literary and cultural worlds. Particularly timely for any lifelong fans of Austen, like myself, whose apposite themes and astute observations of friendship, love and the economics of domesticity continue to resonate and be reinvented again and again - including the BBC's latest TV reimagining, The Other Bennet Sister. 

International Women’s Day was feted in March, and as usual we hope that the day allows you to take a moment and reflect on the vital communities and support that we can all offer each other. As part of this, we reflect on the recent Women and Gender Minorities Dinner held in college. This annual event is a cornerstone of our College community and we are pleased to have been invited to celebrate again.

Check out the College's events page to see the plethora of events that have taken place, including numerous music events and art in Kendrew Barn. All the events happening in College have been powerful examples of how storytelling, visibility, and community sit at the heart of what we do. Likewise, we are gathering feedback on the Women’s Network. Please complete our survey to give your comments on how you engage with us and what you would like to see in future. This really helps us to shape our events to your needs and wishes. Thank you in advance for your input.

Finally, you’ll find details of upcoming events and opportunities to get involved. We hope these pages spark your interest, invite reflection, and perhaps encourage you to join us at something new in the months ahead.

Rose Sundt (2015, Oriental Studies)
Communications Lead for SJC Women's Network
Click here to read more about Rose