The Chamberlain Circle

The Chamberlain Circle is named for the University’s founding philanthropist, Joseph Chamberlain.

He raised funds amongst the Birmingham community and beyond to create ‘a great school of universal instruction’, so that ‘the most important work of original research should be continuously carried on under most favourable circumstances’. Since then, generations of donors have made substantial gifts that have funded life-saving research, created vital campus facilities, and offered life-changing opportunities for our students.

More than 50 generous individuals and organisations are currently following in Chamberlain’s footsteps, with gifts between £100,000 and a million pounds. Members meet biennially, with members of the Chancellors Guild of Benefactors, for an exclusive, prestigious reception and dinner hosted by the Chancellor and VC.

Members of the Chamberlain Circle have supported the creation of the new Library and the refurbishment of the Lapworth Museum of Geology, Access to Birmingham scholarships, breast cancer research, scholarships for young carers, and much more. 

The symbol for the Chamberlain Circle has been derived from the ornate ceiling in the central dome of the Aston Webb Building, the heart of Joseph Chamberlain’s vision for the campus.