Breakfast with Oxford University team: Research, Philanthropy, and Franco-British Partnerships

Discover the University of Oxford’s longstanding ties with France and its role at the forefront of global research.

In this special presentation, Prof. Catriona Seth, Marshal Foch Professor of French Literature, Fellow of All Souls College, and Alix Fontaine, Senior Development Executive, will explore Oxford’s academic traditions, its historic Franco-British connections, and the philanthropic initiatives that help drive innovation and widen access to world-class education.

Meet Catriona Seth, a celebrated scholar of French literature and Enlightenment cultural history, whose presence and aura captivate any room. Catriona, raised in Switzerland, Belgium, and South America, is a renowned expert in French literature, with most of her career based in France.

The session will highlight over a century of Franco-British collaboration — from the creation of the French Chair through philanthropic support, to Oxford’s contemporary partnerships with leading companies such as Chanel or L'Oreal. It will also delve into current challenges in research and higher education, and outline meaningful ways businesses and donors can support academic excellence, diversity of perspectives and future-shaping research.

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📅 AGENDA
• 8:30 am - 9:00 am: Welcome breakfast and networking
• 9:00 am - 10:00 am: Presentation (20 minutes for speaker #1 / 20 minutes for speaker #2 / 20 minutes for Q&A)
• 10:00 am - 10:30 am: Networking

Speaker(s)

Professor Catriona Seth FBAMarshal Foch Professor of French Literature, The University of Oxford

Alix FontaineSenior Development Executive, The University of Oxford