Wednesday’s formal was a showcase of Butler talent. Not only did the Howlands look great with sequin balloons and floral table displays (shout out to Social Comm and Amy for her first formal), but we also got to celebrate some of the amazing people within our college.
The evening kicked off with some delicious food; both the meat and veggie options were significantly better than my questionable cooking skills. Whilst I would have been happy to consume my bodyweight in the chocolate bees on the table, a three course meal wasn’t a bad back up.
After plenty of food and, more importantly, wine had been consumed, it was time to celebrate some of Butler’s finest societies. Both Tanja (Societies Officer 17/18) and Grace (VP 17/18) gave their farewell speeches before presenting the evening’s awards.
STAB took home the prize for ‘Most Improved Society’; the successes of the Murder Mystery Formal back in Michaelmas and ‘She Loves Him, He Loves Her Not’ in Epiphany term highlight how dedicated Emma, Swara and the entire group have been. Keep an eye out for the society’s final production of the year, Much Ado About Nothing, after exams!
Hannah Brown of FemSoc deservedly won ‘Best Society President’. Her energy in organising campaigns, external speakers and group based discussions within the society led to really diverse and educational meetings. Along with the support of Izzie, Hannah has worked hard this year to create an intersectional society that welcomes everybody.
After putting on a memorable ceilidh for the Burns Formal, Folk Band won ‘Best New Society’. The band’s inclusive approach means musicians of any kind are welcome to come and see what the society is about; its success after just a year is testament to Butler’s musical versatility and Isabel’s guidance as President.
Society of the Year deservedly went to Jazz Band; Presidents Rosie and Emily have successfully built up a recognisable brand beyond the college. Apart from regularly providing post-formal Ents, the band have had a busy schedule performing at events such as ELSA’s Christmas Jazz and Prosecco evening and the BEEM Ball. The band is even going on tour to Dublin in June!
With support from Grace in her role as VP 2017/18, the college’s committees have continued to grow this year.
Under our new VP Charlotte’s leadership, Arts Comm was awarded the title of ‘Most Improved Committee’. Apart from kitting out college events such as Fashion Show in June, this year has seen the committee host regular meetings and collaborate with Welfare Comm. Keep an eye out for more mindfulness colouring sessions during Take a Break.
Becca White’s commitment to Welfare Comm was recognised through ‘Best Committee Head’. In her role as 2017/18 Welfare Officer, Becca not only increased the committee’s attendance, but also worked behind the scenes to realise everyone’s ideas. She has led creative campaign activities such as the rescue dog visit and sports teams for mental health. Most importantly, Becca regularly went above and beyond to support every member of the JCR through Welfare initiatives.
Committee of the year went to Charity Comm for their outstanding year of fundraising. Being no mean feat, co-ordinators Hollie and Isabel organised Butler favourites such as Dare Night and Take Me Out. Having already raised more than £4850, this year will hopefully be the committee’s most successful to date. Keep an eye out for with Charities Week and Fashion Show after exams!
The final award of the evening was awarded to Tech Comm for the ‘Biggest Contribution’ to college. Ben and Samantha head up a small team that works mainly behind the scenes; this award recognises their and the wider committee’s devotion to providing Butler with the best entertainment possible. Events such as Freshers’ and Butler Day often take days of work to organise and construct; the JCR simply couldn’t function without them. The committee also hires out equipment and a special mention goes to Daniel Young for his involvement in managing this process. Rather than college paying an external contractor, the committee even repaired and upgraded the bar sound system earlier this term. Ultimately, the fact that the group wasn’t even present to pick up their award due to Ents preparation highlights the committee’s selflessness and dedication to Butler.
Speaking to various society and committee members for this article has reinforced just how passionate this college is about making Butler an inclusive and diverse environment. We’re lucky enough to have so many driven and wonderful people working to make our societies and committees the best they can be. Well done again to this year’s deserving winners and don’t forget to #getinvolved.
To find out more about Butler’s societies, contact our shiny new Societies Officer, Noah Coltman (noah.j.coltman@durham.ac.uk).
As ever, for more information on getting involved with the Butler Hub and Media Soc, drop myself (eden.szymura@durham.ac.uk) or Charlotte (charlotte.l.allum@durham.ac.uk) a message.
Thanks to Tom Weston for the photography. Check out his Facebook page here.
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