As we step into 2026, we do so with optimism, pride, and a profound sense of history. This year marks a remarkable milestone: the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Nursing Studies at the University of Edinburgh. Since its foundation in 1956, Nursing Studies has grown into a world-leading centre of nursing education, research, and leadership and this year, we celebrate that legacy and look to the future.
Whether still at the beginning of your journey in nursing or continuing to shape its future, you are part of a tradition that has spanned the decades. Edinburgh was the first University in the United Kingdom to offer a degree in nursing, and in 1972, established the first Chair in Nursing Studies in Europe. Today, our graduates continue to make a real difference in health care systems, communities, and academic institutions around the world!
2026 will be a year of celebration and reflection. Throughout the year, we will be hosting a series of events to honour the contributions of our students, alumni, and staff over the past seven decades. These will highlight the innovation, compassion, and leadership that define our discipline.
However, this anniversary is not only about looking back, but also about looking ahead to the future of nursing education, research, and practice. We are living in a time of great change in global healthcare, and nurses are at the forefront. The values of critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and person-centred care that underpin our programmes have never been more vital.
We encourage everyone to take part in this year’s celebrations; to connect, reflect, and imagine what the next 70 years might hold!
Here’s to 2026, a year to celebrate who we are, where we have come from, and the future we are building together.
Happy New Year, and welcome to our 70th anniversary year!
