Birmingham Newman University was delighted to welcome community members, partners, supporters, alumni, students, staff, and members of the University Council to campus on Tuesday 17 February for a special event celebrating the inclusive educational legacy of Saint John Henry Newman. The day brought together leading voices from education, academia, and the Church to reflect on Newman’s recent proclamation as the 38th Doctor of the Church and Co-Patron of Catholic Education, and to explore what his vision means for educational leadership in the 21st century.
The programme opened with refreshments and networking before attendees were formally welcomed by Pro Chancellor, journalist and newsreader Julie Etchingham; Professor Jackie Dunne MBE, Vice Chancellor; and The Most Reverend Bernard Longley, Archbishop of Birmingham (via video message). Their remarks highlighted Newman’s timeless commitment to intellectual curiosity, personal formation, and the dignity of each learner - values that continue to shape the university's mission today.
A keynote address from Professor Martin Stringer, Chair of the University Council and author of Faith, Diversity and Higher Education: Towards the Faith Based University, explored the idea of a Catholic heritage university for the 21st century. Professor Stringer reflected on how institutions grounded in faith traditions respond to an increasingly diverse and complex world while remaining true to their founding principles.
The afternoon featured a rich programme of academic insight and discussion. A multi speaker presentation on pedagogy and Catholic social values in the spirit of John Henry Newman brought contributions from Birmingham Newman University’s Dr Louise Hickman, Reader in Philosophy of Religion and Head of Humanities; Dr Duncan Frankis, Co-Programme Lead, Applied Humanities; Professor Robert Beckford, Broadcaster and Visiting Professor; and Dr Sarah Parkes, Senior Lecturer in Learning Enhancement and Academic Development of Queen Margaret University. Together, they spoke to the centrality of social justice, inclusive curriculum design, and the moral purpose of teaching in Newman’s educational philosophy.
A subsequent panel discussion, chaired by Julie Etchingham, examined Newman’s legacy and its impact on education. The panel brought together sector leaders including Dr Dawn Casserly, Headteacher, St. Paul's School for Girls and Honorary Graduate of the University; Emma O’Connor, Headteacher, Cardinal Newman Catholic School; Peter Davis, Catholic Senior Executive Leader, Our Lady and All Saints Catholic Multi Academy Company; and Dr Hanan Fara, Researcher Development Officer, University of Birmingham, and alum of Birmingham Newman University. Together they discussed how Newman’s principles continue to resonate across schools, universities, and multi academy contexts. Their reflections underscored the role of educational institutions in nurturing belonging, aspiration, and personal transformation.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Julie Etchingham; Margaret Holland, University Chaplain; and Professor Jackie Dunne, followed by further opportunities for networking. Guests also received a preview of the university’s new St John Henry Newman Trail, which is open to all.
Birmingham Newman University extends its sincere thanks to all who attended and contributed to this inspiring gathering. The day reaffirmed the university’s commitment to inclusive, values driven education and to working collaboratively with partners to shape a future where every learner is supported to thrive.
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