Heriot-Watt’s unique Global Gathering 2021 was held on Saturday 16 October, 200 years to the day from when its first-ever lecture took place in 1821.

Alumni and friends from around the world registered for this global event to celebrate this magnificent milestone of 200 years.

This bespoke online event provided a unique opportunity to not only connect live with alumni, students, and colleagues but also to celebrate with our vibrant and intercultural community.

If you weren’t able to register in time, you can still enjoy a full recording of the event on the Watt Club YouTube channel.

The recording includes an exclusive interview with the new Chancellor, Professor Sir Geoff Palmer, a beautiful performance by our OneWatt Voices choir, some great advice from our successful alumni, plus the opportunity to recognise the Watt A Legends. It offers a fresh insight into the innovative research, updates from each of the five Heriot-Watt global campuses, and a special performance by Nicola Benedetti, one of our celebrated Honorary Graduates.

Kerryn Kirkpatrick, Head of Development and Alumni said: “With over 143,000 Heriot-Watt alumni making a real difference across the globe in more than 190 countries, it was a joy to celebrate with them and our wider Heriot-Watt family at our Global Gathering 2021 – in one virtual hug.

“The gathering welcomed people from Switzerland, Germany, Zambia, Dubai, Norway, Scotland and many other countries! This event has given the University the perfect opportunity to celebrate its vibrant, international and intercultural community – highlighting the impact Heriot-Watt has made across the globe, while looking at its continued efforts to lead and inspire the world to be a better, safer place.”