University of Glasgow Connect

JANUARY 2025

Reflecting on 2024, it was a year of significant progression and innovation for the University of Glasgow. As we look towards our 575th anniversary next year, we enter 2025 with a remarkable legacy and an ambitious vision for the future. We remain committed to not only being the best university in the world, but also the best university for the world.

From groundbreaking research to our continued focus on sustainability and community engagement, every milestone over the past year stands as a testament to the efforts, dedication and commitment of our #TeamUofG community. In March, we proudly launched our Partnerships for the World campaign, celebrating the international collaborations that support our ambition to address global challenges, advance the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, and improve lives locally, nationally, and internationally.

2024 also marked the 200th anniversary of the birth of Lord Kelvin, one of our most esteemed alumni. A series of commemorative events, including public lectures, exhibitions, and academic symposiums, highlighted Kelvin’s pioneering contributions to science and engineering and underscored their lasting impact. These celebrations served as a powerful reminder of the University’s rich heritage and ongoing influence.

In October, construction began on our Keystone Building, a world-class facility dedicated to learning, teaching, and research. Designed to accommodate around 3,600 students, the building will feature state-of-the-art research labs, flexible learning spaces, and sustainable design elements that align with our commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2030.

Academically, 2024 was a year of exceptional achievements. Our community continued to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation, making world-changing discoveries across disciplines ranging from medical sciences to artificial intelligence. This included receiving the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for our Centre for Robert Burns Studies during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in February. The University also achieved its highest-ever position in global reputation rankings, cementing our top 100 status, and reflecting our growing influence and reputation on the international stage.

While it is important to take a moment to reflect on what we have achieved, we also look to the future with ambition and optimism. The University of Glasgow is poised to further advance our educational mission in 2025. We will enhance and expand our collaborations with global partners, ensuring that together we address emerging global challenges while navigating an increasingly complex and uncertain landscape.

I am delighted to announce the launch of our Always with a Cause campaign which underpins our we are world-changing Glasgow brand message through research with impact, and will showcase the tangible benefits of our research to communities worldwide. Throughout the coming year, we will share these inspiring stories in our Connect newsletter, highlighting the University’s profound contributions to society.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we have achieved much, and with continued dedication and collective action, I am confident that even greater accomplishments lie ahead. The future holds immense possibilities, and I look forward to working together to create meaningful impact and drive positive societal change.

Together, we will change the world.

Best wishes,
Professor Rachel Sandison OBE
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement)