THE UNIVERSITY of Reading has celebrated the day of its centenary, marking 100 years to the day since it received its Royal Charter from George V.
The charter marked its official creation as a university and the beginning of a century of creating possibilities for tomorrow.
Staff and students on campuses in Reading, Malaysia, China and South Africa, and graduates and supporters across the world, gathered to celebrate a major birthday in the time-honoured way: with cake.
On Tuesday, March 17, the University hosted a special centenary event for key University supporters, bringing together the people who have shaped, helped and championed Reading across its first century.
The gathering included the premiere of the University’s centenary film, along with a programme of performances and speeches, which will capture the spirit of the University and set its ambitions for the century ahead.
Throughout March, Reading graduates are hosting birthday celebrations in locations across the globe, reflecting the depth and reach of a growing community that spans more than 150 countries.
As the centenary year continues, the university will open its doors to the local community, celebrating the University’s deep roots in the region.
On Saturday, May 16, a Community Festival will bring the University’s most exciting research and discoveries out from its workshops and labs and into the public, while showcasing many of the projects created to celebrate the centenary, from community art to sustainability initiatives.
The following day will also see the revival of the University’s historic RAG parade, including a charity procession from the University campus to Forbury Gardens.
An immersive musical workshop, conducted in collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, will result in the creation of a new musical piece through the UoR x RPO Create New Music Together programme – culminating in a performance at the Hexagon on Saturday May 9.
It is also staging Sparks, Parks, Halls and Balls, and immersive live drama performance inspired by in-depth interviews with students, staff, alumni and members of the local community, alongside discoveries from the University archives,
It will be performed performed on 23 and 24 May.
Professor Robert van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “This is a proud and joyful day for everyone who is part of the University of Reading community. Whether you have studied here, worked here, or have supported us over the years, our centenary is about celebrating you and the links that Reading has helped you to create.
“For a century, we have been building legacies, growing futures and nurturing connections, and today we look ahead with the same sense of ambition and purpose that has always defined us.”
