Loughborough University

In the modest town centre of Loughborough, back in 1909, the seeds of an extraordinary educational journey were sown. With the establishment of the Loughborough Technical Institute, a town's dreams began to take form. The man guiding this expedition was none other than Herbert Schofield who, instantly, was assigned the helm to steer the organization towards growth. Under his watchful eyes, the simple technical institute took on a grander name - Loughborough College, and a brand new campus was born.

In the early phases, the college drew inspiration from Oxbridge's educational environment. From wearing gowns to lectures to employing practical approaches to balance scholarly learning, they strived to stand as an emblem of holistic education. As World War I swept across nations, the university served as the backbone of the munitions landscape, operating an "instructional factory" to educate workers.

Post-war, the institution divided itself into four colleges, the last of which was destined to lay the foundation of the present university. The transformation from a provincial college to Britain’s first technical university was driven significantly by the relentless efforts of its principals, Schofield and then Herbert Haslegrave. Haslegrave followed Schofield's footsteps, expanding the college further from 1953 to 1967, metamorphosing it from a College of Advanced Technology to a university in 1966.

In 1977, a new chapter began in the university’s history with its amalgamation with Loughborough College of Education. This widened educational horizon was carried forward in August 1998 when the university was merged with Loughborough College of Art and Design (LCAD). Through these associations, Loughborough College has continued its operation as a college of further education to date.

Schofield's role didn't undermine as the organization evolved. From 1915 till 1950, he acted as a diligent leader, grasping the reins firmly. He purchased the Burleigh Hall estate, a landmark now standing as an icon of the university's sprawling 438-acre campus. On this estate rose the Hazlerigg and Rutland halls of residence, which now house the university's administrative offices and the vice-chancellor's chambers.

Haslegrave carried the torch after Schofield, assuming the college's principal position in 1953. The institution basked in the glory of the 'Colleges of Advanced Technology' status in 1958, thanks to his bold initiatives. He also oversaw a series of infrastructural development programmes, enhancing the college's capacity and offerings.

Intrinsic to the university's growth story was the Robbins Report of 1963, which advocated the awarding of university status to all colleges of advanced technology. Three years later, Loughborough College of Technology was bestowed a royal charter on April 19, 1966, marking its transformation into Loughborough University of Technology (LUT), with Haslegrave inaugurated as its first vice-chancellor. Venturing forth, the university began to resemble the plate glass universities molded under Robbins.

The institution continued to evolve. In 1977, it absorbed the Loughborough Training College and replaced "of Technology" from its name in 1996, transitioning to Loughborough University. Two years later, the Arts College also was amalgamated with the university. All these collaborations significantly enriched the institution's academic flavour, enabling it to offer a mix of humanities, arts, and sciences courses.

Fast forward to these days, the university is known by its informal name of "Lboro", "Lufbra" or "Luff", affectionately referred to by the students' union, the alumni association, and others. Today, Loughborough University stands as an epitome of educational excellence - a testament to its rich past and an ambitious vision for the future.