The Robert Gordon's College community gathered to commemorate Founder's Day, a special occasion honouring Robert Gordon and all he hoped to achieve. His vision continues to inspire the RGC community today, and we were delighted to welcome back two alumni whose achievements reflect the lasting impact of an RGC education.

This year's Junior School and S2-S6 orator was Dr David Stenhouse (Class of 1986), Founder and CEO of Soundworks Media Ltd, a specialist audio company which develops and produces podcasts and documentaries for universities, charities and broadcasters. Our S1 orator this year was Jacob Campbell (Class of 2014), a public affairs and community engagement professional with Shelter Scotland, where he works to influence policy and build partnerships to tackle Scotland’s housing emergency while also founding and chairing the campaign to reopen The Belmont Cinema. 

David spoke to pupils about philanthropy, entrepreneurship, education and making the most of opportunities. He used Dolly Parton as an example, highlighting how she grew up in poverty but used her success to support children’s education through initiatives such as the Imagination Library. He shared how debating helped shape his own path into journalism by developing his confidence, communication and presentation skills, alongside the influence of his mother’s performing arts background, which helped him develop an engaging presenting style that stands out. During the S2-S6 Oration, he fondly referenced the earlier P7 Q&A, mentioning that he had “got a real grilling.” Overall, the Orations encouraged pupils to develop their skills and consider how they can use their talents and success to make a positive difference to others.

Having studied Politics and Sociology in Aberdeen, Jacob encouraged S1 pupils to make the most of this exciting new chapter, while emphasising that everyone’s journey at RGC will be unique. He spoke openly about failure and the importance of using setbacks to become stronger and more resilient. “Failure is how we learn what we are capable of,” he said. Jacob also reminded pupils that there is no rush to find their path in life, encouraging them to embrace the journey and trust that, in time, things will begin to make sense.

Founder’s Day 2026 began with a warm welcome in the Quad from the Robert Gordon’s College Pipe Band, before pupils, staff and guests gathered for the Junior School Founders’ Day Service. Mrs Tulloch, Head of Junior School, welcomed pupils from Primary 1 to Primary 7 who sang their first hymn before Mr Macpherson, Head of College, cited his memorial to Robert Gordon. 

The 2026 Junior Founder’s Day Orator, David Stenhouse, shared his memories of RGC, highlights from his career, and insights into what can happen when people put their ideas into action. As the service came to a close, one final prayer was shared by Milly C (P7) and the platform party was then piped out by James McG (P7). 

Three children who celebrated their birthdays on Founder’s Day 2026 were invited to cut the Founder’s Day celebration cake for pupils to enjoy. David then visited Primary 7 for an in-depth Q&A, giving pupils the opportunity to hear more about his career and experiences. 

The Junior School service was followed by the Senior School procession. Mr Burnett, led the procession with the Charles Stewart Mace, followed by the RGC Pipe Band which included Andrew (S5) playing the Founder’s Day Bag Pipes, Highland Dance Captains Lucy and Ava (S6), and Drum Major Manuel (S5). S2 to S6 pupils processed down Schoolhill to the Kirk of St Nicholas and S1 processed to the Craig Centre for Performing Arts.

The service was led by Rev. Zak Robb (Class of 2007), who warmly welcomed pupils, staff and guests before handing over to Oran, School Captain, for the first reading.  Mr Macpherson delivered the memorial, followed by a reading from School Captain Erin. The congregation then heard the 2026 Founder’s Day Oration from Dr David Stenhouse, who shared his reflections and insights with the College community.

The service featured a number of moving musical performances from the Chamber Choir, Senior Choir and Brass Group, creating a fitting atmosphere for the occasion.

Rev. Zak Rob led the congregation in prayer before the service continued in Drum’s Aisle, attended by Senior Staff, members of the Chamber Choir, guests and S6 pupils. School Captains Oran and Erin placed wreaths beneath the Founder’s Memorial Tablet on behalf of the College, paying tribute to the Founder and remembering the lasting legacy of the College. A further wreath was placed by David Rennie, President of the Gordonian Association, on behalf of the Association.

At the same time as the S2-S6 service, our S1 pupils were warmly welcomed by Mr Buchanan, Deputy Head of S1/S2. The year group gathered to sing a hymn, followed by a reading from Mr Shearer, Head of History, reflecting on the life and legacy of Robert Gordon. The service also featured performances from S1 pupils, with Finlay playing the piano, James giving a reading and Mirana performing on the piano in the lead-up to the Founder’s Day Oration, delivered by Jacob Campbell, Class of 2014. The S1 Vocal Group added to the occasion with a musical performance before the service concluded with a lively and colourful performance from the RGC Pipe Band and S1 Highland Dancers.

Founder’s Day 2026 was a memorable celebration of Robert Gordon’s legacy, bringing together pupils, staff, guests and the wider College community to reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements and look forward to the future with pride.

Find out more:

• Founder’s Day Artefacts