Alumni travelled from across the UK, as well as from as far afield as America & Australia, to visit their alma mater and to reunite with classmates, some of whom they had not seen for 50 years since their graduation in the Summer of ‘69.
On arrival, our alumni headed to Firth Hall for welcome drinks; some alumni were reminded of the last time they climbed the very same steps to sit their final year examinations. In Firth Hall, alumni reminisced over shared memories of the highlights of their time at University, such as Rag Week, the Rag Parade, and the Annual Boat Race down the River Don, ENTS events in the Students’ Union and time spent in halls or digs.
Before the luncheon was served, our alumni gathered for the official class photograph for the class of ‘69, followed by an inspiring speech by guest speaker and 1969 Sociology alumna, Professor Annette Kuhn. Annette shared stories of her time at Sheffield as a student; including tales of watching Manfred Mann at the Students’ Union ball, and of being a Research Officer for the Students’ Union in the 1970’s. Professor Kuhn also spoke of her involvement with the University since graduating and becoming a member of the alumni family.
Following a delicious two-course lunch, Miles Stevenson, Director of Advancement for the University, presented archive video clips of the University, including the official opening of Firth Court by King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra in 1905, the RAG boat races on the River Don in the 1930s and 1960s, and the Queen Mother’s visit to open the Arts Tower in 1966.
Afterwards, alumni briefly parted ways for talks and tours. The talks were delivered by Miles Stevenson, who presented The History of the University of Sheffield; and a talk by Keith Lilley, Director of Infrastructure, who spoke about The Future of the University of Sheffield. Many alumni braved the elements to participate in tours, led by DARE staff and students, which comprised of a walk around the current University of Sheffield campus, highlighting the University’s key buildings, such as Firth Court, the Students’ Union, the Arts Tower, and The Diamond.
The day concluded back in Firth Hall with afternoon refreshments, where alumni had a final chance to reminisce and share their stories of student days, as well as exchanging contact details with classmates.
This is the third year that two luncheons have been held, a 65th & 60th Reunion in May and a 50th Reunion in June, due to the demand for places. The University hopes to continue this model into new next year, hosting two reunion luncheons, one to celebrate the 60th and 65th anniversary years for the classes of 1955 and 1960, and a second for those celebrating their 50th year with graduates from 1970.
To view all the photos from this event please visit our Event Photo Gallery.