Another fab formal, another fab review. In reflecting back on many people’s personal highlight of Epiphany term at Butler, Jess Lord recounts her experience of the annual Societies and Committees formal dinner.
Clearly a fantastic effort made by (almost) all in attendance (no I could not tell you what is on Cameron Wild’s head). Photo Credits: Huw Thomas and Johnny Treasure.
I loved societies formal last year, and this year it was even bigger and better. The inclusion of all of Butler’s committees was the perfect addition, and it was great to see members from so many different committees; from Welfare comm. to Disney society, the wide range of wonderful Butler societies and committees was on display – and it was set to be a fantastic evening.
In adopting an ‘under-the-sea’ theme, there was an eclectic collection of “mainstream mermaids” (Burrows, L. 2017), a fisherman, jellyfish (complete with light-up umbrellas), and several individuals dressed in either blue or green claiming to be the sea or seaweed.
The evening began well with Vice-Principle, Karen Langdon, noting the “large amount of sharks we have with us this evening…” – in Butler? Really?
After high table had been seated, the food was served – and it was delicious; the dessert (chocolate torte) was especially heavenly.
It was such a lovely evening spent chatting with fellow society members. I was personally sat with STAB which was so much fun! Obviously as an acting group we had put a lot of intense planning and preparation into our costumes – Rahul (who arrived straight from the library) perhaps making the most impressive effort – in an entirely blue suit. Ground-breaking stuff.
After much wine had been consumed, both Vice-President Matt Ricketts and Societies Officer Rosie Keates gave speeches about their involvement with Butler committees and societies. Matt reflected on how much he enjoys being able to be involved within so many different committees, and Rosie declared her love for ‘each and every one of us’. Rosie, we love you too. The awards soon followed, and the speech about each recipient was fantastic.
Matt noted the contribution that Laura, Tessa, Tanja, Sudhan, Kate, Amy, and Grace have made to all their committees at Butler this year. He then awarded the Butler Committee of the year to Charity Committee, and to Kate and Amy, who have worked tirelessly to help raise thousands of pounds for various charities this year. Very well deserved.
Rosie then stood and spoke about the importance, uniqueness, and wonderfulness of Butler societies, praising presidents, thanking those who #getinvolved, and mentioning what has been achieved this year so far: STAB’s first Christmas pantomime, the establishment of Karaoke society, and the ability of Cheese & Wine society to be able to lower their prices at events – just to name a few! Rosie then went on to give out the highly anticipated society awards…
The award for ‘best new society’ was given to Karaoke Soc., and to presidents Ruth Lunda and Naomi Young. They’ve both done a fantastic job at establishing a society which is fun and relaxed, as well as creating links with other Butler societies through events such as socials.
Next, the award for the most improved society went to a Butler classic – Cheese and Wine society. Under the guidance of its current President, it has managed to increase membership and thus lower the prices of its events, a huge well done must be given to Sophie Missen for all of her hard work and commitment to all things cheese and wine!
The recipient of the award for ‘Best President’ was described as “enthusiastic, ambitious, hardworking, innovative, endearing, approachable, welcoming, supportive, helpful, and going above and beyond the role” by those who nominated her. Through her hard work and dedication, Rock & Alt society have set up links with other universities, and put on numerous social events and concerts throughout the year. A huge congratulations must be given to Dana Wilson, whose dedication to Rock & Alt society is unparalleled.
The penultimate award was for the biggest contribution of an individual to Butler societies. This past year Sophie Johnson has been Vice-President of two societies, as well as assistant Societies Officer, and this is reflective of her dedication to Butler societies.
Rosie’s speech was really lovely, praising Sophie for her ability to succeed in every task she’s been given, and reading out comments written by her peers, describing Sophie as selfless and modest. Again, very well deserved.
Lastly… the big one. Society of the Year 2017. The room fell quiet as Rosie announced the 
winner; only established last year, meeting weekly on a Sunday afternoon, and with a range of members (rumour has it that some do not even go to Butler…) – Debating society! Rosie thanked presidents James Hardy and Owen Lam for their hard work, crediting the pair with tripling the number of members in the society this year, whilst effectively using the Facebook group to publicise meeting times and sharing content relevant to upcoming or previous discussions. Claiming the award for best new society last year, it will be interesting to see which award they set their sights on for next year!
After the speeches, we were treated to performances from Butler’s very own Dance Troupe, Butler Jazz band, and Gecko! All three were fantastic, and it was great to see so many people staying in the bar after the formal and enjoying the ents.
I’d like to say a HUGE thank you to Rosie and Matt for all of your hard work and dedication to Butler committees and societies this year. The formal was so much fun, and it was wonderful to see the amount of people involved within Butler societies and committees – it’s a really special part of being a member of our College. We really appreciate everything you do, so thank you so so much!
Missing formals already? Then watch this space, as the Sports Formal is just over a month away (Wednesday, 3rd March).
BUTLER HUB 