Institution news
Marking a welcome return to face-to-face dining and networking after a forced period of absence due to the pandemic, the 175th Anniversary Celebration Dinner takes place at the magnificent Library of Birmingham, a stone’s throw from the site of the first meeting of the Institution in 1847.
In keeping with the programme of celebratory activities around the anniversary, the Dinner will honour the Institution’s impressive history whilst looking confidently towards the future. Diners will enjoy a sparkling reception, a three-course meal, a high-profile awards ceremony, and an eagerly anticipated after-dinner speech from a very well-known TV presenter and highly respected academic with local connections.
Speaker Alice Roberts is Professor of Public Engagement in Science at the University of Birmingham, a position she has held since 2012. A biological anthropologist, author and broadcaster who has presented well over one hundred television programmes on subjects ranging from biology and archaeology to history, Alice is an outstanding communicator with a track record in building the public’s interest in science and inspiring young people to take up careers in STEM subjects.
Alice’s talk will focus on “The Incredible Unlikeliness of Being”, exploring the link between human embryological development and earlier stages of evolution. As well as covering a fascinating and revealing topic, the speech is sure to provide plenty of food for thought for how the Institution can deliver its messages and make the impact on society that its new strategy demands.
Whilst researching the history of the Institution, the IMechE’s archivist Lucy Bonner uncovered a ticket from one of the first Annual Dinners – in 1850, at the Queen’s Hotel in Birmingham. It feels very fitting that the Institution is returning to Central Birmingham 172 years later, and although the offer to exchange the ticket stub for a bottle of port or sherry sadly no longer applies, we can guarantee that the evening will be every bit as enjoyable as that event would no doubt have been!
The “Early Bird” booking deadline has been extended to Friday 14 October. Bookings received by that date attract a £100 discount on the full price, so those wishing to attend are encouraged to register promptly.