The University has celebrated the renewal of two Memoranda of Understanding, with the Smithsonian and McGill University.

On 25 January the Principal, Prof Sir Anton Muscatelli, met with Kevin Gover, Under Secretary for Museums and Culture at the Smithsonian. The renewal of this MoU builds on the original agreement, signed in 2016, which strengthens and expands on existing collaboration between the two institutions, and involves a commitment to continue programmes of innovative research, teaching and public engagement through academic collaborations and, notably, the work of the Hunterian.

Following the signing, Smithsonian curators and members of the University’s Centre for Gender History led a public online debate about the new Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, the importance of women’s history and the role of museums and research centres in expanding the historic narrative.

The Principal said: “I’m pleased to renew the close links we have with the Smithsonian, which have already led to many exciting opportunities to enhance learning, knowledge exchange and opportunities for students and colleagues at both institutions.

“It’s particularly important that this event has focussed on the contribution of women in history and the role of the new Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum in publicly recognising, presenting and championing women’s accomplishments.”

On 8 February the University also renewed ties with McGill University via recommitting to an MoU which was originally signed in 2015. This agreement formalises a strategic partnership between the two institutions which aims to build capacity for collaboration in teaching and research activity.

Rachel Sandison, Deputy Vice-Chancellor External Engagement, signed the historic agreement in an online event, along with Christopher Manfredi, Provost and Academic Vice-Principal for McGill University. Following the signing, over 70 colleagues from both institutions met to discuss ongoing and potential new collaborations.

The terms of the MoU cover all subject areas, and the discussion touched on a wide range of disciplines, including English literature, Political Science, Nutrition, Neuroimaging, Animal and Veterinary Science, the Caribbean, Early Career Researcher + Joint PhDs, and Slavery Studies. You can read more detail on the McGill University website.

Speaking about the event, Rachel Sandison said: “I am personally honoured, as is the University of Glasgow, to be recommitting to this MoU with one of our closest and most important partners.

“The University of Glasgow and McGill University share many common goals and values, and since 2015 we have harnessed this shared ambition to foster many new, diverse and exciting partnerships. I look forward to seeing this relationship continue to thrive in coming years.”

First published: 11 March 2022

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