The anniversary publication, formed in Birmingham: Sixty Years of Aston University, was officially launched at a special evening event on Tuesday, 16 June in the University’s Great Hall, bringing together alumni, staff, partners and collaborators to reflect on Aston’s past, present and future.

The 136-page hardback captures Aston’s journey from its origins as a technical institution rooted in Birmingham’s industrial heritage to its current position as a modern, internationally recognised university known for innovation, enterprise and applied research.

It features more than 120 photographs many taken by Birmingham-based photographer Jonathan Berg.  

It combines rare archival material with newly commissioned contemporary imagery, telling the story of the University over more than six decades.

The book is the centrepiece of “Aston Made”, the University’s 60th anniversary campaign, which celebrates the impact of its community and highlights its stories of innovation, transformation and global influence.

The event was opened by Chancellor Dr Jason Wohura OBE and closed by interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Mike Caine, who said: “The Aston Made campaign continues to highlight the impact Aston University has had on the region, the UK and globally. 

“The book communicates Aston’s story from before the University received its royal charter to the following 60 years, and beyond to the future with developments such as Birmingham Knowledge Quarter which embodies the innovation, ambition and purpose that define Aston University’s approach to enterprise.”

The launch event featured an exhibition of items and a tour of Aston University’s archives and talks which highlighted Aston’s heritage, research impact and partnerships across industry and society. 

Professor Helen Higson who gave one of the speeches said: “With our links to industry, Aston pioneered the model that bridged the gap between the lecture theatre and the office floor with the "sandwich" course. 

“We didn't stop there. We kept pushing. We launched the UK’s first-degree apprenticeship in 2017. We partnered with Capgemini so students could earn while they learn. Today, we are still leading.

With most of our students on sandwich courses, we are in the top four in the UK. This is why our graduates are among the highest paid in the country. We don't just give them a certificate. We give them a career.”

The anniversary year will continue with a series of activities under the Aston Made campaign, sharing ‘60 stories for 60 years’ and inviting contributions from across the Aston community to build a lasting archive of its impact.