Call to support Newman University's 50th anniversary

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

Newman University, which became one of the first Catholic universities in the country since the Reformation when it received full university title in 2013, 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 50th anniversary celebrations. We're calling on all our alumni from across the UK (and beyond) to get in touch and send us their fondest memories, key moments and/or images that best epitomise 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 anniversary celebrations begin with a special Mass to mark the university's Foundation Day on Tuesday 13 February. Newman is also hosting a series of events throughout the year, including a 'Big Alumni Reunion' in August to allow former staff and students to reconnect.

This event will be held on Saturday 11 August and includes 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 50th 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.

To get in touch with Newman University please visit www.newman.ac.uk/50years, call the Alumni office on 0121 476 1181 x2515 or email alumni@newman.ac.uk