More than 50 staff, students, alumni and friends took part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk on Sunday (26 April) and raised an incredible £16,378 for the GCU Foundation’s 150th Anniversary Campaign – tripling the total raised in any previous year.

The funds, generated through generous donations and sponsorship, will fully fund two new sector-leading 150th Anniversary Scholarships, providing comprehensive support for students who have had to overcome significant barriers to get to GCU, including care-experienced and estranged students. Each scholarship offers an annual bursary, graduation cost coverage, guaranteed mentorship through GCU’s award winning MINT Programme, an internship bursary and a transformative travel award that broadens horizons and builds confidence over the four-year programme.

This achievement reflects GCU’s enduring commitment to access, equality and inclusion – a mission that has defined the University since our founding institution, the Glasgow School of Cookery, first opened its doors in 1876.

Team GCU completed the 14.6-mile Big Stroll from Clydebank to Loch Lomond. The group included Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Mairi Watson, Student President Tom Tom Osinubi and 80-year-old alumna Diane Spiers, whose determination set the pace for the team.

Corporate partner Wills Bros also joined the walk with a strong contingent of current GCU students and graduates, embodying the deep community ties between the University and local industry.

Professor Mairi Watson said: “It was great fun to join students, staff, alumni, partners and friends on Sunday to raise money for our anniversary scholarships. It was my first Kiltwalk, but not the first time I’ve seen our staff work collectively to focus on our students’ success. Well done everyone, and I’m looking forward to next year already!”

Donations are still being accepted via the Team GCU JustGiving page, with all gifts contributing directly to life-changing scholarships.

For 150 years, GCU has opened doors and unlocked potential. Thanks to Team GCU, that legacy will continue for generations to come.