Warwick’s sweet 60th marked by year of events

The University of Warwick will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025, marking six decades of growth into a leading institution renowned for research, teaching, and community impact.

Reflecting on the milestone, Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor of Warwick, remarked: “As we prepare to mark the University’s prestigious 60th anniversary […] it is the ideal moment to reflect on our legacy.”  

He emphasised the anniversary as a time both to honour past achievements and to renew a commitment to “a further 60 years of innovation and collaboration”. 

Throughout its anniversary year, the University will host a series of events celebrating its legacy and vision for the future. Key highlights include: 

The Festival of Innovation and Grassroots Growth Summit – An interactive event at the Warwick Arts Centre on 27 January 2025. The event aims to explore and celebrate work in CreaTech, Agri Tech, Health Tech and Clean Tech. It will bring together diverse stakeholders to discuss and drive change through innovation.  

Resonate Days Out – A year long series of daytime and evening events organised by the Warwick Institution of Engagement in partnership with community organisations across Coventry. Events will be held in locations across Coventry, Warwickshire, and in the wider West Midlands, including Canley and Foleshill.  

The Poetry Trail – A “science-art collision,” which will showcase poems inspired by the research of female science academics from Gibbet Hill, written by poet-in-residence Sujatha Menon. A collaborative piece by Foleshill Community Centre members and Menon will also be included. Each poem will be accompanied by a prologue, sharing the scientific insights behind it. The trail opens in May 2025.  

In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats – An immersive virtual reality experience which will transport attendees straight into the heart of the Coventry and West Midlands’ rave scene. It will reignite the anticipation and excitement that surrounded the Acid House movement. It is set to visit Warwick Arts Centre in Autumn 2025.  

‘The Global Illuminations Light Festival’ – The festival will illuminate buildings across campus with a dynamic light display, showcasing eco-friendly projection mapping, a student curated global soundtrack and an International Light Procession. It aims to celebrate the university’s diverse international community, featuring over 147 countries. This event is set for November 2025, with specific dates and times to be announced soon.  

Additional events and activities will be announced as Warwick’s 60th anniversary approaches. These celebrations will honour Warwick’s pioneering spirit, showcasing its lasting impact on education, innovation, and community on a global scale.