Song, debate, excitement for the future as Society celebrates its first 15 years
The Learned Society of Wales’ 15th anniversary celebrations at the Senedd on 6th November included some memorable singing by giant of the opera world, Sir Bryn Terfel, an invigorating panel discussion, and reflections on the Society’s future.
Star quality was provided by Sir Bryn, who was formally admitted as an Honorary Fellow of the Society. He left the audience spellbound with two songs, I Can Give You the Starlight (Ivor Novello) and the traditional Suo Gân, accompanied by his wife, the internationally acclaimed harpist Hannah Stone.
The evening also featured a panel discussion, ‘The Future of Knowledge: 15 Years of LSW’. It was led by journalist Will Haywood, with panellists Dr Manon Antoniazzi FLSW (Senedd Cymru), Mark Drakeford MS, Baroness Finlay of Llandaff FLSW, Professor Yueng-Djern Lenn FLSW (Bangor University) and Professor Karen Salt (Trustee of The Williamson Trust).
Their debate focused on the role national academies play and why Wales needs an academy of its own, and mapped out a vision for the still youthful Learned Society of Wales. There was a wide range of opinions offered, from how to make Wales’ intellectual life as inclusive as possible to the importance of combating disinformation and strengthening trusted voices.
Speeches from the Society’s outgoing President, Professor Hywel Thomas, and its President-Elect, Dame Elan Closs Stephens, also painted a picture of a progressive and ambitious organisation, determined to play an active role in making Wales a great place in which to be a researcher, as well as a respected and independent voice in policy debates.
The next key stage marking the Society’s 15th year comes in spring 2026 with the announcement of a refreshed range of the Society’s medals.