Sir Alex Ferguson and Dr Murray Rowden back 150 new scholarships as part of Glasgow Caledonian University’s 150th Anniversary Campaign
Sir Alex Ferguson CBE has joined forces with Glasgow Caledonian University alumnus and honorary graduate Dr Murray Rowden to back the University's most ambitious campaign to date − together, they've pledged £500,000 to fund 150 new scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The announcement comes as the University celebrates 150 years since the establishment of its founding institution, the Glasgow School of Cookery, in 1875.
The 150th Anniversary Campaign will raise funds to establish a new sector-leading scholarship programme that will form the centrepiece of the University’s 150th Anniversary celebrations. Building on Glasgow Caledonian’s historic commitment to widening access to higher education for people from disadvantaged backgrounds, the scholarships will provide financial and mentoring support to help talented students overcome the barriers they face and thrive in their higher education journey.
Glasgow Caledonian Chancellor, Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, hosted an anniversary event on its Glasgow campus with Sir Alex and Murray last night (November 24) to launch the Campaign. It brought together supporters of the University including business leaders, and honorary graduates such as acclaimed actress Blythe Duff; and journalist, author and television presenter, Sally Magnusson MBE FRSE.
Sir Alex Ferguson CBE, Founding Donor of the GCU Foundation, said: “I’ve witnessed first-hand the life-changing impact that scholarships, travel awards, and mentorship can have on young people. Bringing all of this support together in one unique package will give students not only the financial means, but the confidence and encouragement they need to truly excel. Giving young people a start in life is one of the greatest gifts we can offer, and one that has brought me immense pride and joy over the years. I hope others will join me in backing this extraordinary initiative and help open doors for the next generation to thrive."
Dr Murray Rowden, graduate and honorary graduate of GCU, said: “Glasgow Caledonian University has played a pivotal role in shaping both my career and my values. The education I received, and the support I was given, opened doors I never imagined possible. Backing this campaign is my way of giving back to ensure that future students, regardless of their circumstances, have the same chance to succeed and make a difference. I’m proud to stand with GCU in building a legacy of opportunity and inclusion.”
The Campaign is a direct response to the growing numbers of care-experienced and estranged students joining GCU. In 2025/26 75% of applicants to the GCU Foundation were care-experienced or estranged from their families, many having experienced chaotic upbringings, abuse, addiction and homelessness. Through the Campaign, each student will benefit from:
- Financial bursary to ease money pressures
- Guaranteed access to a mentor throughout their time at university
- Access to an internship bursary
- Guaranteed travel award.
Ten years on from launching the GCU Foundation with a landmark £500,000 founding gift in 2015, Sir Alex has since helped raise more than £11 million for disadvantaged students. Over the past decade, the Foundation has provided scholarships, awards and career-shaping opportunities, empowering thousands of students to pursue their ambitions and make an impact on the world.
Jill Watt, Director of Advancement & Communications, said: “The Anniversary Scholarships will alleviate financial hardship and dismantle social barriers. We are profoundly grateful to Sir Alex and Dr Murray Rowden for leading this campaign with such generous support. As we mark 150 years since our founding, this initiative reflects our enduring commitment to access, equality, and inclusion, values we will celebrate throughout the academic year. We are deeply thankful to our alumni, donors, and friends whose generosity continues to transform lives at Glasgow Caledonian, and we hope many more will join us in championing this important cause.”
The Glasgow School of Cookery was created to educate young working-class women and improve family life, pioneering the mission for the Common Good – a commitment to access, equality and inclusion that remains central to Glasgow Caledonian today. Since the University itself was formally created in 1993, it has grown into Scotland’s largest and leading modern university.
The anniversary celebrations will run from November 24, 2025, to August 30, 2026, culminating in a major campus festival weekend with public talks, reunions, workshops and exhibitions.
Anyone interested in supporting GCU 150 Anniversary Campaign can contact foundation@gcu.ac.uk