Irvine Memorial Lecture 2025: Professor Tom Shakespeare CBE FBA Disability: what it is, and why it concerns everyone

The Irvine lectures were founded in 1954 by St Salvator's College Council in memory of Sir James Colquhoun Irvine, Principal of the United College of St Salvator and St Leonard, 1921 to 1952. Originally, the Lecturer was appointed annually by the College Council to deliver one lecture in St Salvator's College on a subject of interest and importance to the students of more than one department or faculty. Since its inception, the remit has been expanded.

The 2025 Irvine Memorial Lecture will be given by Tom Shakespeare CBE FBA, Professor of Disability Research at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

This talk, entitled ‘Disability: what it is, and why it concerns everyone', will contrast traditional and social understandings of disability. Tom will explore what the evidence tells about disabled people, at home and abroad, and will emphasize that we can all collaborate on building a less disabling world.

The Principal, Professor Dame Sally Mapstone FRSE, will give the welcome and Dr Rebekah Widdowfield, Vice-Principal (People and Diversity), will chair a Q&A session following the lecture and give the vote of thanks.

Photograph of Sir James Colquhoun Irvine courtesy of the University of St Andrews Libraries and Museums, ID: ms38187-11.