575 years: Honouring our heritage with a commitment to action
As we celebrate 575 years, Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Andy Schofield sees an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary people, achievements and discoveries that have shaped our institution over many generations – but also to commit to future action.
We can be immensely proud of our long history. Yet what has struck me during my first year as Principal is that this history is not just a record of past achievement. It is a story of renewal, evolution and reinvention. Across almost six centuries, the University has adapted to changing circumstances while remaining true to its fundamental purpose: creating knowledge, transforming lives and contributing to the public good.
That continuity of purpose remains one of our greatest strengths.
As I meet alumni, colleagues, students and partners in Glasgow and around the world, I’m reminded that the University’s impact extends far beyond our campus. It certainly feels like everywhere I go I have the pleasure of meeting proud University of Glasgow graduates. Our community is global in its reach and influence; connected by shared experiences, and a shared belief that universities matter: that education, research and innovation improve lives and help address the most pressing challenges of our time.
We mark this anniversary at an important point in our development. We have much to celebrate. From educational excellence, widening access, world-leading research and civic engagement, Glasgow continues to make a huge contribution locally, nationally and internationally.
At the same time, it would be unwise to ignore the changing landscape. Universities are operating in an increasingly complex environment, shaped by financial pressures, technological advances and geopolitical uncertainty. These challenges are real, but they should not diminish our ambition. If anything, they reinforce the need for universities like Glasgow to lead, innovate and demonstrate our value to society.
"Celebrating 575 years is not simply an opportunity to honour our past. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to those who will follow us.”
It was with this in mind that we launched Glasgow 2036, our ten-year strategy, which you can read by scanning the QR code below. It looks ahead to the next chapter for UofG while building on the strengths and the values which have defined Glasgow for generations. It sets out an ambition: to reinforce our place among the world’s leading universities, and to increase the difference we make through our research, education, partnerships and civic contribution.
This is where our anniversary carries its greatest significance. Celebrating 575 years is not simply an opportunity to honour our past. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to those who will follow us. Each generation of the University community has inherited something valuable and has, in turn, strengthened it for the future.
As I’ve delved into some of the remarkable archive material that we hold, I can see countless examples of how the achievements we celebrate this year have been made possible by the talent, dedication and support of generations of students, colleagues, alumni and partners. The opportunities ahead of us will require that same collective commitment.
Marking this significant anniversary, we do so not only by celebrating our past, but by looking confidently to the future. Together, we will build on our remarkable legacy and ensure Glasgow remains a force for positive change for generations to come.
This article was first published in October 2026.