From the Vice-Chancellor May 2022

Dear Deakin community,

The result of the Australian Federal election over the weekend confirmed that we are living in a rapidly changing society. As we have seen across much of the world in recent years, traditional political parties are finding it harder to represent the views and values of a broad base of constituents and convey a unifying message. The larger issues we are facing, whether climate change, geopolitical shifts and international conflict, gender equity, health care or education, require brave thinking and strong leadership.

As always, there have been some notable achievements at Deakin this month. On 13 May, we were named as a ‘Trailblazer University’ by the Federal Government, receiving $50 million as part of their Trailblazer Universities Program. Through REACH (our Recycling and Renewable Energy Commercialisation Hub), Deakin will spearhead the largest recycling and clean energy advanced manufacturing ecosystem in Australia. The budgeted government funding will be matched with support from industry and university partners for a total value of $380 million. My congratulations to everyone involved in REACH and the application process, led by Alfred Deakin Professor Julie Owens, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research.

In individual honours, Evelyn Araleun, lecturer in Deakin’s School of Communication and Creative Arts, won the 2022 Stella Prize for her debut book of poetry, ‘Dropbear’. She is the first poet to be awarded the $60,000 accolade. And Jimmy Buck – who many of you will know through dKin Times and other alumni contexts – our Chief Advancement Officer, was awarded the CASE Crytal Apple for Teaching Excellence, a prestigious honour.

Deakin’s third annual Virtual Open Day will run on Sunday 5 June. This interactive, online event gives prospective students and their families the opportunity to see what it’s like to be a Deakin student and to learn all about our courses, support services and facilities.

And to help ensure such a great university experience is accessible to all, we have launched Deakin’s 2022 Tax Appeal to raise awareness of the Deakin Achieving Potential Scholarship Fund, which provides opportunities for students facing barriers. With over 1000 student applications received, Community Bank at Deakin University has recognised the importance of this fund and is matching donations of $100 or more by 30 June. Please give generously to create a brighter future for all.

Best wishes,
Iain

Vice-Chancellor
Deakin University