Jesus College is delighted to announce the establishment of its first bursary that specifically supports Black British students.

The Joan Erene Corine Martindale Clarke and Lionel Da Costa Clarke Scholarship will be used to support an undergraduate student (in any subject) who identifies as ‘Black British’ for the duration of their course.

The Scholarship has been provided by Jesus alumnus Alwyn Clarke (Jurisprudence, 2011), who named the fund after his parents. The Scholarship supports the College in achieving its aim of ensuring that it is a welcoming and supportive home for black students.

Mr Clarke said, “Being a part of Jesus College has been transformational for me both personally and professionally. Together with the support of others along the way, especially my parents, this enriching experience continues to shape me as an individual. The Scholarship will help others to achieve their potential by making the Jesus College experience more accessible and by fostering diversity at Oxford. Representation in all its forms is valuable – I encourage others to follow suit and create further opportunities to make studying at Jesus College more equitable.”

Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt, Principal of Jesus College, said, “As a College, we are committed to upholding the values of inclusivity, equality, diversity and opportunity for all. We know that a diverse community is a stronger community, and are extraordinarily grateful to Alwyn for his generous support. The Joan Erene Corine Martindale Clarke and Lionel Da Costa Clarke Scholarship will provide a transformational opportunity for gifted young Black British students to benefit from all that an Oxford and Jesus College education has to offer”.   

Professor Patricia Daley, College Vice-Principal and Chair of the College’s Equality and Diversity Committee, said, “This is an incredible opportunity to support Black British students – an underrepresented group in Oxford and in College. It takes Jesus College further towards addressing the challenges of diversity.”

The first award from the Martindale-Clarke Scholarship was given in Michaelmas 2020.

Equality and diversity are at the heart of the College’s ethos and academic mission, and we aim to support, promote and embed equality and diversity in all aspects of College life. To find out more, visit our website here.