Supporter Update Issue 9: June 2024
Latest news from the Philanthropy & Alumni Relations Office
Lord Wandsworth Foundation’s Patron Announced We were excited to announce the naming of Sternian and former international rugby star and broadcaster Ugo Monye as the first Patron of the Lord Wandsworth Foundation in March 2024. Ugo, who himself benefited from the support of The Foundation, is a testament to the transformational potential of the charity. On leaving the College, he embarked on a highly successful rugby career, earning 14 caps for England and being part of the British and Irish Lions 2009 tour of South Africa. Following his retirement in 2015, Monye became a wellrespected television and radio personality, captaining a team on the BBC’s ‘Question of Sport’ quiz show. In 2021, he was appointed chair of the Rugby Football Union’s independent advisory group on diversity, co-chairs the National Physical Activities Taskforce, and sits on the board of the Women’s Sports Trust. We were thrilled to welcome Ugo back to LWC on Foundation Day, in his first appearance in his new role. We know that with his support, we can and will do more to widen worlds for young children who have suffered the loss of support of a parent. It was fantastic to hear him speak and meet so many of our current Foundation pupils who were a little star-struck!
“I am delighted to have been offered the opportunity to play a role in The Foundation’s story. This is a charity close to my heart, as The Foundation supported me through my schooling. Lord Wandsworth College opened so many opportunities for me, gave me an incredible education, and got me to pick up a rugby ball for the first time! I am so excited to help shape the future for the next generation.” We look forward to working with Ugo in the weeks and months ahead and reporting on our progress together.
Happy days for Ugo playing rugby at LWC in 2000.