university's Tier 4 licence was a 'ridiculous decision' 50th anniversary, 2018 In 2018, the university started a year of celebrations to mark the fiftieth anniversary of its foundation. On 13 February 2018, the university vice chancellor, Professor Scott Davidson, opened the year of events with a drinks reception at the Bartley Green campus. Davidson told visitorsIt’s incredible to look back over our evolution since we first opened our doors in 1968 as a teacher training college. Whilst we still have a strong reputation within that field, I’m proud that we are now able to offer a range of undergraduate, postgraduate and foundation degree courses and welcome students and staff of all religions.In attendance were local business leaders, former students and the Archbishop of Birmingham, Bernard Longley. The university called on its former students to share their memories in an online campaign. As part of the celebrations, the university hosted the Cathedrals Group Choirs Festival. Rehearsals took place in the university chapel while the final performance was held in Birmingham Symphony Hall. The university's 'big alumni reunion' was scheduled for August 2018. Events Visit of Mother Teresa, 1992 On 9 September 1992, Mother Teresa visited the college campus with Cardinal Basil Hume and greeted students and staff. 40th anniversary thanksgiving, 2008 On 21 February 2008, the University College celebrated its fortieth anniversary. The Most Reverend Vincent Nichols presided over the celebration mass in St Mary's Chapel. Staff celebrated the anniversary at the nearby Botanical Gardens. Papal Visit, 2012 Students and staff from the university participated in a ceremonial mass held by Pope Benedict XVI at Cofton Park, Birmingham in 2012. Honorary doctorates The university has awarded honorary doctorates to a number of public figures and intellectuals including John Sentamu, Eamon Duffy and Edward Bond. See also Armorial of UK universities College of Education List of universities in the UK References External links Newman University Sports Centre Newman Health and Wellbeing Newman Educational institutions established in 1968 1968 establishments in England Universities established in the 21st century Buildings and structures in Birmingham, West Midlands