On the evening of February 9, the Robert College Alumni Association (RKMD) welcomed guests to Bizim Tepe for a gathering that set the tone for an ambitious new intellectual tradition. In collaboration with the Tarih Vakfı (History Foundation), the Association hosted the inaugural event of the “Bizim Tepe Series,” bringing together alumni, scholars, and history enthusiasts for an evening where rigorous discussion met a strong sense of community.
At the heart of the night was Şevket Pamuk RA 68, whose talk on “Inflation and Politics in the Ottoman Empire” offered a rich, thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between economic forces and political power. Drawing on decades of research, Pamuk connected historical patterns with contemporary realities, reminding the audience that today’s economic debates are often rooted in long-standing structural dynamics.
Yet the evening was more than a lecture—it was the beginning of a platform. Conceived as a series of curated conversations, the Bizim Tepe Series aims to bridge academic insight with lived experience, creating a space where alumni can engage with critical ideas while reconnecting with one another. The initiative also carries a philanthropic dimension: proceeds from the evening were directed toward supporting the ongoing work of the Tarih Vakfı, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing historical scholarship in Turkey.
Building on the success and momentum of this first gathering, the collaboration between the Robert College Alumni Association and the Tarih Vakfı is set to continue. On March 30, Bizim Tepe will once again host an evening dedicated to history and contemporary reflection—this time featuring Osman Cevdet Akçay RC 79.
In the second installment of the series, Akçay will lead a discussion on “The History of the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (TCMB),” offering participants a deeper understanding of the institutional and economic evolution of one of the country’s most critical financial bodies. As with the first event, the evening will bring together intellectual inquiry, alumni engagement, and social impact, with proceeds continuing to support the Tarih Vakfı’s work.
Together, these gatherings signal more than a series of events—they mark the beginning of a sustained partnership. By creating a recurring forum for dialogue, the Robert College Alumni Association and the Tarih Vakfı are laying the groundwork for an enduring exchange of ideas, one that connects past and present while strengthening the bonds within the alumni community.
Set in the familiar warmth of Bizim Tepe, the Bizim Tepe Series is quickly becoming a space where history is not only discussed, but collectively experienced—through conversation, reflection, and a shared commitment to learning.
