BSA’s Newest Benefactor
The British School at Athens is delighted to announce the support of a new major benefactor. Mr Edward Hocknell has pledged a remarkable £1 million to the BSA, which will be paid in instalments over the next five years. This is the largest unrestricted gift in the BSA’s history and will provide vital support to enhance and expand the BSA’s activities and build financial resilience.
Edward studied Classics at St John’s College, Oxford then spent a distinguished career at investment management firm Baillie Gifford, headquartered in Edinburgh. He is a patron of a wide range of academic and cultural activities, including Classics for All, book and music festivals. He is currently developing a new festival: York International Classics Festival, which will be inaugurated in September 2027.
BSA Chairman, Professor Sir Roderick Beaton writes “We look forward to a long and beneficial relationship with Mr Hocknell and his wife Anna. Edward’s clear and strategic thinking around the needs and importance of the BSA, now and into the future, is a timely encouragement and support to us and on behalf of myself and Council I extend our warmest and most sincere thanks.”
BSA Director, Professor Rebecca Sweetman, writes “The flexibility of Mr Hocknell’s donation makes an already exceptional gift hugely beneficial and impactful; from immediate spending requirements to longer term financial planning and stability. The staff, scholars and fellows are truly delighted and we thank him for his foresight and generosity.”
Edward Hocknell writes “I am tremendously impressed by the work of the BSA under Rebecca’s leadership. I want to do what I can to help it survive and thrive.”
BSA Head of Development, David McClay joins in thanking Mr Hocknell for his exceptionally generous support and noted “As a charity we have always been and are increasingly dependent on the generosity and support of Friends, Circle supporters and donors. For those interested in supporting the BSA at any level please refer to our Friends and Support Circle or get in touch directly to discuss how you might help:
https://www.bsa.ac.uk/join-us-2/become-a-supporter/
development.executive@bsa.ac.uk