University launches 60th anniversary year celebrations
University of Bradford last night kicked off its 60th anniversary year celebrations, with a commitment to preserve the legacy of City of Culture.
Although the actual anniversary isn’t until October 18, 2026 (when it gained its royal charter, becoming the UK’s 40th university), the launch event comes as Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture prepares to come to a close and as the University, which was integral to the bid process and which now has the job of preserving its legacy, also prepares to bid farewell to its Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon, who is due to retire in December after six years in post.
Speaking at the launch event Professor Congdon described the moment as “bittersweet” adding that Bradford would “forever remain part of my heart.”
Optimism and confidence
She said: “It is a privilege to launch the celebrations for the University of Bradford’s 60th anniversary. Although the official milestone falls in October 2026, today marks the beginning of a year-long journey – a journey that honours our past, celebrates our present, and looks confidently to the future.
“Over the last six decades, this University has built on this proud legacy. We have been pioneers in research and innovation, champions of social mobility, and a community that truly embodies the phrase: We are a University of and for Bradford. That commitment has shaped everything we do, from supporting our city and region to making a global impact.
“As we approach our 60th anniversary – and as Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture draws to a close – there is a sense of optimism across our university. Our new strategy gives us a clear direction. We are ready to embrace the future with confidence.”
The University has played an integral role in City of Culture, most notably assisting with the analysis of attendance data for outdoor events, something that will be used to shape future City of Culture bids.
A series of events are now planned to mark the University’s 60th, including commissioning an artist to create a mural to celebrate the former Prime Minister Harold Wilson, its first chancellor.
Different is what we do
The celebrations also coincide with the launch of the University’s Different is what we do campaign, which celebrates its greatest achievements and core strengths.
The University recently unveiled a new 10-year strategy, with plans to attract 10,000 new online learners by 2035.