A truly civic university

Anticipating a year of challenge, we began 2010-11 with a bold decision: to formulate a new strategy based on our values and rooted on our founding principles.

Inspiration came from the penny donations given a century ago by Sheffield factory workers to establish a university which would benefit their economy, health and children.

Our modern vision also reflects its global impact and the fact that today's students and staff come from more than 140 countries. What unites this international community is a passionate desire to put knowledge to work for the good of others.

This practical approach inspires collaboration across subject areas and with individuals, businesses and organisations beyond the University to solve the more pressing problems we face, both close to home and around the world.

Students also have a powerful role to play. From mentoring through to activities reflecting students' own experience and skills, in a single year over 1,300 students and staff from 55 departments supported over 200 local charities and community groups and raised £178,000 for good causes in the community.