125 on campus and around the world

Thousands celebrate the University's 125th birthday

Staff, students, family, friends, alumni and Brummies from around the world came to campus in June for a wonderful day of learning, music and fun. We extended our celebrations globally, with a record 55 Global Alumni Gatherings, marking our anniversary in more than 30 countries. 

Take a look at our video, which includes historic photos from across the decades, as well as pictures and film clips of our wonderful international alumni community who celebrated this year with us.



My wife (Ann Mills BSc Medical Biochemistry 1970) and myself met at Birmingham University and 55 years later we are still happily married, with four children and five grandchildren. We had a fabulous day at the 125th Anniversary, meeting up with four other couples from our graduation year at the Cafe Aroma and Anniversary lunch.

Paul Collard (BSc Physics, 1970)

We hope you enjoy our video showcase. If you'd like to take a closer look at any of the pictures, take a look at our Through the decades gallery.

With our calendar of celebratory events running right through into December, there’ll be a few more opportunities coming up. Check our events page for details.

If you would like to share your own memory or story, you can also do this online.  Share your memories.

If you have attended our 125 events and would like the chance to spot your photo, take a look through our albums: 

Come to Campus Community Festival  

Shanghai Alumni Reception 2025

Global Alumni Gatherings 2025 

Hong Kong Alumni Reception 2025

The alumni gathering was a great success, and we are truly grateful for the university’s support in making the event possible. It was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to reconnect and celebrate our shared memories

Lan Yao (MSc Financial Management, 2024)