Clare Hall representatives recently enjoyed a series of highly productive meetings at la Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), further strengthening the College’s international relationships and connections with members of the Clare Hall Spanish Society.

Professor Andrew Blake, Dr Fiona Blake, and Helen Pennant visited two of UC3M’s campuses as part of the trip. The visit was made especially rewarding through the hospitality of former Clare Hall Visiting Fellows who are now based at UC3M: Dr Mercedes Esteban-Bravo (Marketing, Business School), Dr José Manuel Vidal-Sanz (Marketing, Business School), and Professor Antonio Estella de Noriega (International Law).

“The university is modern, forward and very internationally oriented. We met with the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Vice Rector) for Internationalisation, Professor Carolina Marugán.  She was very interested to hear about Clare Hall especially our visiting fellows programme.  Former Visiting Fellows of Clare Hall who are now based at the University Carlos III gave us a tour of the campus, and a company does to our meeting with Professor Marugán.  We are very grateful to them for their insights and introduction to the senior leadership of their university.“

Helen Pennant

On Saturday 18 October, the group gathered at UC3M’s city centre campus, housed in a former fish market that now accommodates part-time courses. Several classes were in session that morning, providing a lively atmosphere as Clare Hall Life Fellows convened for what has become a regular event celebrating interdisciplinary thought.

The programme featured presentations covering topics such as modelling in science, healthy longevity, and the role of art in promoting peace. A highlight of the gathering was a tandem talk by Professor Andrew Blake and Dr Fiona Blake, introduced by Helen Pennant, exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and fine art. The presentation exemplified Clare Hall’s unique culture of interdisciplinary exchange and intellectual curiosity. Fiona, elected as a Fellow two years ago, also reflected the College’s commitment to fostering family connections and valuing the contributions of all members of its community.

The meeting of the Clare Hall Spanish Society was organised by Clare Hall Professorial Fellow, Professor Emilio Artacho, and his wife Dr Luisa Sancho-Arroyo, with warm thanks extended to Professor Marugán for hosting the event on the UC3M campus. The visit further deepened the sense of academic and personal connection between Clare Hall and its Spanish members.

The College looks forward to welcoming all Life Members from Spain to Cambridge for the celebrations marking Clare Hall’s 60th Anniversary in April 2026.