University marks International Women’s Day with inspiring Give to Gain event
The University of Chester will host an empowering afternoon of talks, workshops, and community connection on Wednesday, March 11, as part of its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations.
This year’s theme, Give to Gain, highlights the transformative power of generosity, collaboration and shared progress.
Open to people of all genders - staff, students and visitors - the in-person event will run from 1pm to 4:30pm at the University’s Riverside Innovation Centre, next to the Wheeler building on Castle Drive in Chester. The programme is designed to inspire, energise and celebrate the many ways individuals and communities can uplift women through visibility, advocacy, mentoring, education and shared knowledge.
The afternoon will open with remarks from Professor Emma Rees, Director of the University’s Institute of Gender Studies and long-standing organiser of the University’s IWD celebrations. Emma will reflect on the importance of International Women’s Day and the personal, institutional and societal significance of this year’s theme.
She will be followed by an address from Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice Chancellor of the University of Chester. As a leader in UK higher education - where women currently represent only around one-third of Vice Chancellors – she continues to champion gender equality across the University and within regional leadership networks.
The University is also honoured to welcome the Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sherin Akhtar, who will share her journey to public office, including the challenges faced, the support that shaped her path, and the lessons learned along the way. Her Mayoral charities will be spotlighted as part of the event’s celebration of women’s leadership and community impact.
Marking the 65th anniversary of women students being admitted to the University (formerly Chester College), alumna Pat Ransome will reflect on her experiences as one of the early women students in a predominantly male environment. She will discuss the significance of this milestone and her continued connection to the University since graduating in 1972.
Attendees will also be invited to participate in a range of interactive workshops led by staff and students from the University.
The University’s Alumni team will also showcase early photographs of women students and share archival materials, while colleagues from Library and Information Services will highlight resources that support women’s learning, growth, and visibility. Representatives from the charity Tomorrow’s Women will also be present with an information stand.
Kathryn Leighton, HR Manager for Organisational Development and Equality at the University, said: “The University’s International Women’s Day event promises to be an uplifting and engaging celebration of women’s achievements, leadership, and contributions - past, present, and future. It invites the entire community to come together, learn from one another and embrace the spirit of giving that fuels collective progress.”
Places are free but must be booked in advance at International Women’s Day at the University of Chester: Give to Gain Tickets, Wed, 11 Mar 2026 at 13:00 | Eventbrite