BLAZING A TRAIL

In 1963, UEA opened its doors to its first cohort of students. Among them was aspiring young biologist Roy Burns (BIO63), who arrived in Norwich slightly stunned to have a university place at all.

“Frankly, I was told, you’ve been selected to counterbalance the straight A students,” explained Roy. “While two other universities had made me offers to study botany, I decided to take up UEA’s offer to be on the UK’s first degree course in Biological Sciences.

“Being part of that pioneering cohort of 25 students was riveting because none of us had ever been to a university before. I think it was a very smart move indeed by UEA at that time, to bring in people with proven experience of running things. I had a lot of experience in putting events together. From my recollection, that was the reason I got selected at the interview.

“I asked myself what one thing had the greatest impact on my life, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without UEA. A small gamble by the University was the making of me. The thirst for knowledge I discovered propelled me into a long and wonderful academic career in molecular cell biology.”

Together with an emphasis on achieving student, research, staff, and global success, UEA has always lived its ‘Do Different’ philosophy and remains true to its values. It will be a familiar saying to most people who have been associated with UEA at some point.

Roy echoed the sentiments. “Visiting the University today, I’m struck by how much it has changed and grown, but also by how much those original values remain. It is a wonderfully welcoming home for learning.

“The boundaries between different disciplines are often the places of maximum growth. My decision to leave a legacy to UEA tethered to interdisciplinary science comes from the experience I had here at the trailblazing department of Biological Sciences.”

Pioneered almost 60 years ago, this ethos of giving opportunities to students of all abilities and walks of life continues to be a proud tradition at UEA.

There are many ways to give. Every gift, whatever its size, makes an enormous difference in areas including student support, contributing to our pioneering research in cancer and more.

A Lasting Legacy

All gifts to UEA help the University to address major global challenges, whether funding research, providing stability for critical teaching posts or ensuring that exceptional students are able to take up their places at the University. Whichever area you choose to support, your legacy will help to shape lives for generations to come.

If you are considering giving to support UEA’s pioneering work, please get in touch with the Development Office. The team will be pleased to answer any questions you have about leaving a gift in your will.

In Roy’s words: “I have chosen the legacy route to repay UEA’s faith in my potential back in the 60s. Some may find it satisfying to give during their lifetime. But what matters most is that if you think UEA added value to your life, then it’s probably time to give back.”

We are deeply grateful to Roy and all our supporters who have left a legacy or pledged a gift in their will to UEA. These generous bequests power our ambitions and give us the capability to think bold, do differently and make a difference with global significance.