150 years of UCO

UCO celebrates its 150th anniversary: A rich history, a dynamic present, a bright future

The Université Catholique de l'Ouest will be marking a milestone in its history: its 150th anniversary. Founded in 1875 by Monseigneur Freppel, UCO has evolved over the years while remaining true to its core values: freedom of spirit, openness and social responsibility. To honor this memorable anniversary, UCO has planned a 2025-2026 academic year marked by significant events and moments of sharing.

A year of unforgettable commemorations

The UCO will launch its anniversary celebrations in November 2025, with a series of activities retracing 150 years of history through academic, religious, cultural and associative events. The celebrations will culminate in a festive evening on June 5, 2026.

Among the highlights of this exceptional year will be a solemn opening ceremony on November 17, 2025 at the Centre de Congrès d'Angers, with the participation of such eminent figures as philosopher Monique Canto-Sperber, writer Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt, and Archbishop Pierre d'Ornellas. On December 8, 2025, the entire university community will gather for the patronal feast in honor of Mary, a tradition that is always eagerly awaited.

Celebrations with multiple dimensions

The festivities will go far beyond these flagship events: symposia, exhibitions, concerts and student projects will enliven this year of celebration. The Franco-Vietnamese colloquium, to be held on November 24 and 25, 2025, will pay tribute to one of UCO's most illustrious alumni, Father Théophane Bửu Dưỡng. Furthermore, in March 2026, the UCO will be organizing a national symposium on "The Idea of the University", a crucial topic at a time when the role and future of higher education establishments are undergoing radical change.

UCO's 150th anniversary marks a milestone in the institution's history. Through a variety of events, the university will highlight its values and commitment to society. The festivities will be an opportunity to strengthen ties between alumni from all campuses, and to share thoughts on the future of higher education. In this video, discover a glimpse of the highlights of this exceptional celebration.