WIHEA 10th Anniversary Celebration

We are proud to mark the tenth anniversary of the Warwick Institute of Engagement and Academy (WIHEA). To commemorate this significant milestone, a celebratory event was recently held on central campus, bringing together key individuals who have helped shape WIHEA’s journey and impact.

The event was marked by a series of thoughtful and inspiring speeches. Guests heard from a distinguished line-up of speakers, including Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor of Warwick, Professor Lorenzo Frigerio, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) and WIHEA Fellow (Ex-officio) and Professor Rebecca Freeman, Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) and WIHEA Fellow (Ex-officio).

Further reflections were shared by WIHEA’s past and present leadership: from the visionary founder of WIHEA, Professor Christina Hughes, Founder and CEO of Women Space, Professor Gwen van der Velden, WIHEA’s inaugural Director and Honorary Fellow; Professor Leti Gramaglia, WIHEA’s second Director; and Jess Humphreys, WIHEA’s current Director. Valuable insights were also provided by WIHEA Fellows and Alumni: Professor Jane Bryan (WIHEA Alumna); Poonam Pedley (WIHEA Alumna) and Dr Tom Ritchie (WIHEA Fellow). The vital student voice was powerfully represented by Inca Hide-Wright and Gunisha Aggarwal. Collectively, their contributions highlighted the lasting impact WIHEA’s Fellows has had on educational practice and teaching excellence at Warwick and beyond.

The event also provided a welcome opportunity for guests to connect and reflect, accompanied by a drinks and canapés reception. A central feature of the celebration was a visually engaging exhibition of 40 carefully curated posters, each showcasing a different aspect of WIHEA’s history and ambitions for the future. Themes explored in the exhibition included WIHEA’s mission and vision, its current learning circles and funding streams and a detailed timeline charting of its growth. A striking infographic illustrated key achievements of the past decade. The displays also spotlighted WIHEA’s extensive network of national and international collaborations.

This special anniversary event served as a powerful reflection of the dedication and collaboration that have defined WIHEA over the last ten years - affirming its vital role in driving excellence and progressive practice in higher education.

A huge thanks to all those who attended and made the event a success.

Please do take a moment to browse photos above from the event.