Tue 15th November, 2011
Double Gold Olympic Champion Dame Kelly Holmes DBE MBE was first off the starting blocks when she opened the University of Bedfordshire’s Campus Centre and student accommodation Fitzroy Court in Luton yesterday (Thursday, 10 November).
Around 100 people watched Dame Kelly unveil special plaques at the two buildings, part of the University’s £180m development programme across its campuses.
Dame Kelly was welcomed by Vice Chancellor Professor Les Ebdon CBE DL to the Campus Centre which opened its doors to students last year.
Afterwards she was taken to Fitzroy Court in Vicarage Street where she was welcomed by Chief Executive of the University’s partner Campus Living Villages UK Gary Clarke.
Dame Kelly said: “I’m really pleased to be here – I love the people and the energy here at the University and we share the same ethos and values about inspiring the next generation.
“We at the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust are delighted that the University has signed up for a second year as an associate sponsor of our charity and it is great to be here to see these fantastic facilities and to continue our partnership.
“Good facilities always help to inspire and there is a real spring in the step of students here. They’re very lucky to live and work in such exciting, modern buildings.”
Professor Ebdon said: “We are a University which puts students at the heart of university life and I am delighted to say the new Campus Centre does just that. All the things which matter to students, including the Students’ Union of course, are now based here in this fantastic building under one roof.”
John Perkins, President of the University’s Students’ Union, said: “The Campus Centre is an amazing space for the Students’ Union to be based in and building it shows that the University is really investing in its students. It’s great to have a building that students can feel so proud of.”
Gary Clarke said: “We’re immensely proud of Fitzroy Court. It is the first large-scale building we’ve undertaken in the UK and we feel it to be a real landmark space for us.
“Student experience is our primary focus and we extend our thanks to the University – they share our commitment to the students and are definitely one of the most inspirational institutions in the country. This is a great partnership and a tremendous success.”
The next phase in the University’s investment programme includes a new postgraduate and continuing professional development centre which is on track to open in 2013.
Latest news» 2011» November» Dame Kelly opens Bedfordshire’s new Campus Centre and student accommodation in Luton
