The Aberdeen University Student’s Union (AUSA) is celebrating its 25th anniversary this coming week, marking the occasion with a bang at Elphinstone Hall.
Founded in 2001, AUSA is now the proud host of 55 sports clubs and over 200 societies and student groups.
The occasion will be held in Elphinstone Hall on the 13th of February at 7pm, where the evening will include a drinks reception, awards, and a ceilidh. All proceeds will go directly towards supporting AUSA as it continues into the next year of operation.
The celebratory event coincides with Founder’s Week (9th-16th February) at the University of Aberdeen, which highlights the 531st anniversary of the institution’s roots, founded in 1495 by William Elphinstone.
A press release from AUSA emphasised the Union’s importance over the last 25 years:
“Aberdeen University students bring huge economic, educational and cultural value to our city, and the Students’ Union is here to support them throughout their time in Aberdeen – from representation and democracy to wellbeing and welfare support, to sports, societies, activities, leisure and community-building.
“That work plays a bigger role than many people realise. A strong Students’ Union helps students thrive during their studies, feel supported, connected and proud to call Aberdeen home. That’s a key part of encouraging young people to study here and graduates to stay in the North East, build their lives and careers locally, fill skills gaps, start businesses, innovate, volunteer and contribute to future economic growth and a strong Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire.”
The Union, formerly headed by Graeme Kirkpatrick, has recently appointed a new CEO, Fiona Heinonen. Fiona previously worked as Chief Executive of Kayleigh’s Wee Stars, a North East’s children’s charity, bringing her extensive experience as a leader to AUSA in time for its anniversary.
The Gaudie spoke to AUSA’s student council Chair, Kaitlin Agius, about her feelings on AUSA’s importance as part of the student experience:
“During my time at university I have run for Student Council elections 4 times, participated in 6 societies, (briefly) attended 3 sports clubs, and been a member of 2 liberation forums. I have been to countless Union hosted events, from quiz nights and paint and sips, to barbecues and welcome week events. The 25th anniversary gives us time to reflect on previous years. Without AUSA, students would have limited access to the things that make student life so great. For example, the activities that have become available to students, our sports and societies, services like student support and the Gender Expression Fund, and the representative work that still impacts us today. I’m grateful to AUSA for making my time at university so much better. I am excited for what is to come for AUSA.”
AUSA is also coming up to an exciting annual period of change, with nominations currently open for the Sabbatical officer posts for the 2026/27 session. Closing on the 27th of February, students can nominate themselves for the Vice-President and President roles that help shape the student body and run AUSA.
Tickets for the event can be purchased for £15 via the event link: https://aberdeen.native.fm/event/ausa-25th-anniversary/268666