Feature
Meet our dedicated supporters
We’re proudly shining a light on some of the incredible individuals and organisations whose generosity is directly supporting University of Dundee students
Published on 16 July 2025


Get to know John Fyffe and Grant and Alison Thain as they offer a glimpse into their motivations for donating to Access Summer School, a vital initiative that helps break down barriers to Higher Education. Some students might have narrowly missed the grades they needed, while others are overcoming significant and complex personal challenges. Our free, five-week course helps them to qualify for university, develop the skills they need to succeed, and unlock their potential.
The generosity of supporters like the Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee and the Thains is truly making a difference. Through their donations to Access Summer School, they are helping to ensure that brilliant minds, brimming with potential, do not miss out on a university education because of their background.
“The Access Summer School is very close to the hearts of the Nine Trades and has been one of the organisations we have supported through some challenging economic times,” said John Fyffe, Deacon Convenor of the Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee.
"The Nine Trades very much believes in supporting young people in the city and providing them with opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t have had. The University Access Summer School has been life-changing, and all the Trustees who have attended the subsequent graduation have commented on the huge impact it has had on both the individuals and our community."

John Fyffe, Deacon Convenor of the Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee
As Dundonians, Grant and Alison Thain have always felt deeply connected to the University of Dundee.
“Grant is an Economics graduate and my father obtained his postgraduate degree in Education. So for both of us the University is and always has been part of our family”, explained Alison.
“Even though we live in New York we never feel far from Dundee. Grant is an active member of the University’s alumni group, marching in the annual Tartan Day parade, taking part in a spirited inter-varsity curling match with fellow Scottish alumni and helping to organizing a Burn’s event for the University. We see the University as part of our current lives and not just a past memory."
Alison Thain
We also want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank every single donor who supports the University; your collective support is invaluable.
Are you inspired to join them? There are several ways you can give and become a part of our donor community. Learn more and discover how you can make your own impact today.
Help us ensure that potential shines, regardless of background. Donate to Access Summer School today and help open the door to opportunity.