News release: Uni celebrates special anniversary

Abstract

The University of Central Lancashire is gearing up for a special week of events marking
its 1751
h anniversary.
The University is proud to trace its roots back to 1828, when 24local people met at the
Preston Com Exchange and following the trend in other northern industrial towns,
agreed to establish an Institution for the Diffusion of Knowledge. Thanks to a bequest
from the estate of well-known Prestonian Edmund Robert Harris, the institution was
able to expand and develop and as the Harris Institute (1882 to 1956), provided a solid
education for many people in Preston and the surrounding areas.
Further changes in name and status followed: Harris College, Preston Polytechnic and
Lancashire Polytechnic, until the institution received University status, along with other
former Polytechnics, in 1992.
Now staff, students, friends, partners and special guests from home and overseas are
joining in the celebrations taking place throughout the whole of 2003, but focusing in
particular on the last week of September. The highlight of the week will be an
international conference, 'The Diffusion of Knowledge- Past, Present and Future' , but
the programme also includes a spectacular gala concert at the Preston Guild Hall with
the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and soloist Amanda Roocroft, a University
Honorary Fellow.
"The celebrations will reflect the University's development as a major regional, national
and international institution" said University Vice-Chancellor Dr Malcolm McVicar.
"From its humble origins in 1828, the University has grown to become the sixth largest
university in the UK, with over 32,000 students. We look forward to celebrating the
Anniversary with friends and partners from across the world".
-ends-
15 September 2003
nr094pc
Note to editors:
1. Please find attached programme of events for 17 5 Celebrations
2. For more information on the history of the University, please contact Aidan
Turner-Bishop, 01772 892285