Message from the Vice-Chancellor - dKin Times May 2021

Welcome to the May edition of dKin Times.

I write this on the eve of National Reconciliation Week, which Deakin is again proudly participating in across many areas of the University, alongside our partners and through our community networks. 2021 marks twenty years of Reconciliation Australia and almost three decades of Australia’s formal reconciliation process. Reconciliation is certainly a journey for all Australians and for those who are connected to our nation.

A few weeks ago I delivered the opening address at the Humanitarian Leadership Conference, co-run by Deakin, reflecting on our nation’s and our University’s origin stories, and how we can learn from the past to realise our best future. These are important conversations to keep having – you can read the transcript here.

As part of a global community, we continue to think of our alumni and friends all around the world during this difficult time. Following the Federal Government’s $37.1 million Budget commitment to the Indian response to the pandemic, we have also provided direct financial support through our long-time partners Tata Trusts. Other organisations can likewise make donations, and we encourage individuals to contribute to any of the agencies working on the ground, such as World Vision, Oxfam, UNICEF, Save the Children, Red Cross, Care Australia and Doctors Without Borders.

We continue to work with the Victorian and Federal governments on what the path ahead looks like, in terms of the contributions our sector is making through education and research, and the support we need, including a plan for the return of international students to our shores. We will keep you informed of developments as they arise.

For those who are in lock-down or at home more often, you can take advantage of our online professional development opportunities for alumni, many of which are free; or you may like to consider post-graduate study. The expertise of our staff and the capability of our digital platforms continue to lead the way in providing premium, engaging online experiences.

Sadly, we recently lost a dear friend and one of our most passionate advocates, Mr Frank Costa. In 2003, Frank received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Deakin in recognition of his distinguished service to the community. He had an enormous presence in the business and cultural life of Geelong, and was a very generous philanthropist to many worthy causes. Of course, our Costa Hall at the Waterfront Campus carries his family name as a lasting testament. He will be greatly missed.

This edition features the profound and lasting impact of philanthropy on our students and community – something Frank would have enjoyed reading about, as I hope you do.

Best wishes,

Iain.

Vice-Chancellor
Deakin University