Join us in celebration of our 90th anniversary on Thursday 17 March 2016

Thursday, 14 January 2016

This year, the University of Reading will celebrate the ninetieth anniversary of the granting of the Royal Charter that enabled us to become an independent academic institution.

To mark the occasion, staff and students are invited to take part in a variety of activities taking place on Thursday 17 March 2016- exactly 90 years since the Charter was granted on the same date in 1926.

Lunchtime celebrations and world record attempt

Between 1pm and 2pm, all staff and students are invited to join us for cake and refreshments in the Palmer Quad. The University Big Band will provide entertainment. 

If you will require transport from our London Road or Greenlands campus please complete the online form in advance.  

During the lunchtime celebration we will be making an official world record attempt for the 'greatest simultaneous chair lift', inspired by an iconic photo of our first Vice-Chancellor being ‘chaired’ by students at the moment the Royal Charter was announced. 

This is where we need your help! In groups of three, we need staff and students to simultaneously perform a 'four-hand seat carry'. Further details on this will be provided on our 90th anniversary website in due course. To take part, you will need to register online. We will need you to be available between 12.30pm and 2.00pm on the day. 

Details of all those who take part will be recorded in the University archives and everyone will receive a memento to take away with them.

University Court Meeting

A special meeting of the University Court will take place on the evening of Thursday 17 March from 6.00pm, followed by a celebratory reception.  

The meeting of Court will provide a fitting opportunity to celebrate our long and successful history. It will also be an opportunity to showcase our current achievements and our vision for the future. Court meetings are traditionally attended by members of the University Council, Senate, and a selection of invited individuals. 

With this being a special occasion, we are extending the invitation to 90 staff, 90 students and 90 alumni. These places will be allocated via a ballot; to enter the ballot, please complete the online form. 

Please note that registration for the world record attempt, London Road/Greenlands campus travel and Court meeting ballot must be completed by Wednesday 17 February. Details of additional celebrations will follow in due course. For further updates and information on our 90th anniversary celebrations, please visit the website here.