Foundation of University of Edinburgh Graduates' Association, 1924

The Edinburgh University Graduates' Association was inaugurated in the summer of 1924. Originally named the Alumnus Association, its aim was to foster a corporate spirit among graduates of the university and to preserve a close bond between alumni and their Alma Mater.

The Association was largely founded as a result of the enthusiasm and tireless advocacy of Sir Harold Stiles (1863-1946), Regius Professor of Clinical Surgery, who became its first Acting-President . The constitution of the Association set its chief objective as encouraging graduates to maintain a permanent interest in the welfare of the university. It further promoted the formation of clubs or associations of Edinburgh graduates throughout the world and assisted those already in existence. Membership was not limited to graduates, but was also opened to final year students, to all alumni (whether graduates or not), to honorary graduates, and to all ex-members of the university's teaching and administrative staff.