ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app

March 19, 2025

50 Voices of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app: From the labs to the library to the lawns

Multimedia project showcases people who have shaped ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app over the past five decades and shares their vision for the future

Today (Wednesday 19 March) the University of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app (ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app) officially launched 50 Voices, a project that showcases the people who have helped shape ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app over five decades, as part of the program celebrating its 50 years as an independent institution.

From the labs to the library to the lawns, 50 Voices tells the stories of the people who make ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app.

The year-long multimedia project will share stories from students, past and present staff, alumni, donors, and community members who have had a lasting impact on ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app, and their vision for the University’s future.    

50 Voices also offers a glimpse into the past on ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app’s very own . The video series takes a trip down memory lane with people who are at the heart of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app, as they relive personal stories while being driven around ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app campuses on a golf buggy.

Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Senior Professor Eileen McLaughlin said people from all walks of life have demonstrated an unwavering passion and dedication to ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app across many years and 50 Voices allows some of their stories to be put in the spotlight and celebrated.

“50 Voices honours the legacy of our people; the integral component of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app’s story. The connection and sense of community that has been fostered over five decades is the lifeblood of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app,” Professor McLaughlin said.

“We are proudly forged in the Illawarra and have become a world-class institution with a global footprint. That doesn’t happen without the people.

“50 Voices is a chance to celebrate the impact, inspiration and innovation of our incredible people.”

The first 50 Voices instalment release features 10 stories, each offering unique personal and professional insights on how ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app has shaped their lives, and how they in turn have helped shape ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app. More stories will continue to roll out throughout the year.

^{After her teaching career, Christine returned to ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app to lead the Alumni Bookshop. Her legacy is one of generosity, community, and a love for learning that continues to change lives.}

Christine Thompson tells the story of how ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app became her second home. From a teaching student to leading the Alumni Bookshop – which raises money to fund equity scholarships – her legacy is one of generosity, community, and a love for learning that continues to change lives.

“It’s rewarding to help not just younger people through the bookshop, but also to see the faces of the parents, the families who are doing it tough, just completely light up with relief,” Christine said.

Reflecting on his connection with ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app as part of 50 Voices, Emeritus Professor John Norrish said when he joined ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app in 1995 the University was fostering an environment that perfectly aligned with his vision of bridging industry and academia.

"I am a firm believer in industry connections," Emeritus Professor John Norrish said.

"Universities and researchers must work with end users, whether industrial, health, or community. It keeps people's feet on the ground and fosters innovation."

^{John would like to see the University continue to maintain connections with industry as it looks to the future.} 

ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app psychology student Mitch Hoskins (main image above) shares his story on how he has found his “home” at ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app and is on his dream pathway to becoming a clinical psychologist. A proud Dunghutti man with a young family, the former police officer said he is driven to give back to the community when he graduates.

“I'm quite biased, but my experience isn't community, it’s family. WIC (Woolyungah Indigenous Centre) is my family, and they are one of many reasons why I want to succeed,” Mitch said.

“Becoming a clinical psychologist and hopefully making an impact with all Mob within my local community, by engaging and promoting men's mental health, in particular suicide awareness.”

50 Voices also shares an anonymous personal recollection by a long-standing observer and enthusiastic supporter of the University of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app reflecting on the history of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app, sharing scenes from ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app’s first 50 years and its legacy.

The 50th Anniversary program, launched early this month, features a calendar of events inviting staff, students, alumni and the community to join in the anniversary celebrations throughout the year. ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app will host events, talks, seminars and reunions and share inspirational stories to honour the University's legacy and inspire excitement about its future. 

For more information about 50 Voices please visit ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app’s website: /the-stand/50-voices/. For more information about the 50th Anniversary and the calendar of events please visit ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app’s website /50-years/.