A year to remember: Celebrating QMU’s 150th anniversary

Throughout 2025, the QMU campus was buzzing with creativity, history, connection and celebration as we marked 150 years since the founding of our institution, and what a year it was!

From alumni reunions and public talks to exhibitions, an artwork unveiling and a theatre production inspired by QMU’s story, our anniversary programme offered something for everyone, and brought our community together in unforgettable ways.

We were able to reflect on QMU’s history, while also looking ahead to the future. Events in Edinburgh and London reconnected past students with current ones, while our 150 stories of QMU and public talks explored topics ranging from research breakthroughs to the trailblazing individuals who first established our institution in 1875.

The art that tells our story

One of the most talked-about highlights of our anniversary year was the unveiling of our striking new public art piece, which now takes centre stage in our campus grounds.

Made possible by donations from the QMU community, the art installation celebrates the people and activities which make up Queen Margaret University.

The piece was created by Martha Ellis, a Musselburgh-based visual artist, whose signature laser-cut sheet metal style has been used to represent the stories of all who have shaped our institution through the decades.

But what makes it feel truly special is the research and engagement behind it. Martha spent months speaking with members of the QMU community, attending local events and gathering stories, to carefully craft a piece that truly encapsulates the University and what we stand for.  The piece was officially unveiled in August to excited guests, made up of students, staff, alumni, donors and friends. The artwork is now a permanent feature for all to enjoy.

Building a legacy

Our 150^th anniversary encouraged us to celebrate our history, but also to think about where we’re headed next. With projects that touched on creativity, research, community engagement and student experience, the legacy of this special year will live on far beyond 2025.

So, as we look ahead to the next 150 years, let’s keep telling our stories, bringing our ideas to life, and building a university that’s proud of where it came from and excited about where it’s going.