Call for memories to support Newman University’s 50th anniversary celebrations

Newman University, Birmingham is inviting past students and staff to submit their favourite stories and memories to be used as part of its 50^th anniversary celebrations throughout the year.

Newman University, which is based in Bartley Green aims to include the memories in its new project, ‘The Newman Heritage Collection.’ The project, which also involves digitalising the university’s current archive, will then be displayed at key anniversary events throughout the year.

Bryan Turner, Alumni Relations Officer at Newman University, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have reached such a milestone anniversary. The heart of the University is very much its students and staff, so they are central to our 50^th anniversary celebrations. We’re calling on all our alumni from Birmingham, and across the UK, to get in touch and send us their fondest memories, key moments and/or images that best sum up their time at Newman. We’re also currently in the middle of digitalising our extensive archive and would welcome any input from past students and staff who may be featured in some of these fantastic old images.”

The highlight of the 50^th anniversary celebrations is ‘The Big Alumni Reunion’ on Saturday 11^th August, where the University will be welcoming graduates and former staff back on campus for a day of reminiscing, celebrating, and re-connecting with old friends. The day includes live entertainment from local performers and bands, as well as street food provided by the award winning Digbeth Dining Club.

This event will also include a look back at Newman’s first 50 years from Vice-Chancellor Scott Davidson. He said: “It’s incredible to look back over our evolution since we welcomed our first 182 students, all wearing wellies as the campus was still having building work completed, in 1968.

“50 years on, the university is home to over 2,700 students, with graduates not just from the teaching professions but also a range of subjects across the humanities and social sciences.

“Our 50^th anniversary is an opportunity for celebration and also a time to reflect, take stock and begin looking towards the next 50 years. We’ve got some ambitious plans and I’m proud to lead the university forward in exciting but challenging times the higher education sector.”

With a strong reputation for teacher training, Newman University offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate and foundation degree courses. Inspired by the teaching of its Patron, Blessed John Henry, Cardinal Newman, it is dedicated to delivering a formative education for its students, developing the whole person for the challenges of careers on a global stage, not just imparting subject knowledge. Proud of its Catholic heritage, the university welcomes staff and students of all religions and backgrounds.

If you would like to share any memories or photographs with Newman please email Bryan Turner, Alumni Relations Officer at alumni@newman.ac.uk

For more information about Newman University’s 50^th anniversary, including the Big Alumni Reunion please visit the 50th anniversary page.