After we became an independent college, Jim Cuno guided our first steps and helped us realize that things could be done in a different way. Chris Green writes of his valuable contribution to the life of the Institute in the short time he was with us.


Deborah Swallow took up the directorship at the beginning of this term and we all wish her the very best as she moves from life in a huge institution to a smaller one. However, at the Courtauld, there are probably no less balls in the air, just different ones. When Iinterviewed her this summer, we discussed not only her background and experience, but also her ideas for the future.

Robin Cormack’s retirement party after 42 years at the Courtauld took place just before the beginning of term. In his speech he recalled aspects of life at Portman Square. His perceptive observations on the Institute and the history of art were well worth quoting extensively. These supplement the pieces on his major contribution written by two colleagues and one of his former students.

Over the last few months we have received more notification of publications by former students than ever before. My pleasure in receiving these is tinged with the disappointment of not being able to include all of those we received. I apologize in advance for any omissions. We look forward to hearing from you again next year.

The project which Jim Cuno initiated earlier this year, to find and co-ordinate alumni records, is one of his most valuable legacies. No doubt his Harvard experience played a role. He engaged the consultant, Ursula Rimbotti on a full-time basis for 6 months to concentrate on these records. She has brought the methodical thinking and careful logic to a long overdue project. With the information she has described in her report, we can now move ahead in Alumni relations with a solid foundation. We salute her and Jim.

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Jane Ferguson — Editor