Facing dire financial challenges, in recent times the University of Wollongong (UOW) hasn't had a lot to celebrate. But that is changing, starting this week as the campus begins its celebrations of 50 years as the region's leading educational institution.
As the academic year begins, the thousands of students returning to campus for the commencement of studies are being greeted by 50th anniversary flags, signage and merchandise celebrating five decades of learning.
To mark the milestone, a calendar of events has been announced celebrating UOW's achievements and highlighting the people and the community who have been integral in the organisation's success.
Yesterday, at the Innovation Campus, more than 100 alumni from the university's earliest years came to for a high tea to be honoured and celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the university community, professions and the university legacy over the past 50 years.
Greg Evans, a UOW alumni from the class of 1977, shared his memories of a big New Year's Eve party to celebrate the creation of the university as an independent institution in its earliest years. Yesterday's event also featured a photographic display of iconic archival images spanning the university's 50-year history.
Year-long anniversary program released
The year-long 50th anniversary program invites staff, students, alumni and the community to join in the celebrations throughout the year. UOW will host events, talks, seminars and reunions and share exceptional stories to honour the golden anniversary.
Launching this month, 50 Voices will share the stories of the people who have shaped UOW – from the lake to the library to the lawns. The multimedia project will share the stories of staff, students, alumni, volunteers and community members about how UOW has shaped their lives, and how they in turn have contributed to UOW.
From July to December the UOW Gallery will present 50 Artists: 50 Years showcasing works by 50 nationally and internationally recognised artists affiliated with UOW. The exhibition will highlight the diversity and significance of the UOW Art Collection, with many works rarely seen before.
The 50th Anniversary Awards and Gala on 12 September will be an opportunity to honour and celebrate UOW's impact on teaching, education. research and innovation over the past five decades and acknowledge the achievements of UOW's graduates.
Adam Gilchrist to feature at MND fundraiser
Wrapping up the year of celebration, on 25 October the Wollongong campus will host a Celebrity Cricket Match to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease research, featuring UOW ambassador and former Test cricket star Adam Gilchrist alongside local sports stars and personalities.
Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Senior Professor Eileen McLaughlin said the university had plenty to be proud of and the 50th anniversary would be an exciting chapter in UOW's history.
"Fifty years is a milestone to be immensely proud of and UOW plays an integral role in the Illawarra, across the nation and globally."
From UOW's first campus on the lands of Five Islands Dreaming, nestled at the foot of Mt Djeera (Keira), UOW has expanded to nine Australian and five international campuses.