Saturday 26 April 2008

One of the highlights of the University’s 50th Anniversary celebratory programme of events was huge public open day on campus.

An estimated 7,000 graduates, members of the public, students and their families came together to see the University throw open its doors to showcase its achievements and developments over the past 50 years and to celebrate this milestone.

"We really enjoyed all the lectures, so much so that my husband said he would have to come next time. We were really impressed." 

Mrs Frances D Pollard - MA Mass Communications 1989

A broad range of lectures, exhibits, displays, activities and demonstrations were on offer throughout the day to entertain all who came to visit.

"We met aliens, considered what constitutes murder and what can be learned from gravestones amongst many other fun and interesting things! We also met Bridget, the new Mars lander and wish her well! Thank you again it was wonderful. Here's to another successful 50 years!"

Anita Feeley - Family Programme member

One of the focal points of the day was the newly completed David Wilson Library, which was open for all to see. Visitors were taken on tours to demonstrate the numerous benefits of this £32 million development which was made possible, in part, by the kind generosity of University supporters including those who have donated to the Annual Fund campaigns.

"Just to let you know how much my husband and I enjoyed the day. The lovely weather helped, too. We attended some very lively and interesting lectures... about dangerous criminals, pterodactyls and the two on Rome and Film." 
Mrs Linda Perham née Conroy - BA Classics 1969

Graduates were treated to a special lunch in the Charles Wilson building and were addressed by the Vice-Chancellor, who gave a graphic illustration of the growth of the University over the years.

Click on an image below to see a larger version. We are always happy to help you with arrangements for a reunion - large or small - particularly by providing publicity on this web site and in the Leicester Graduates' Review. We may also be able to assist with mailings; and if you are planning to meet in Leicester, we may be able to help you with a venue, catering arrangements and so on. But please do give us plenty of notice if you want to work with us and make the most of this support.