From the Vice-Chancellor - June 2020

Dear Deakin alumni and friends,

Australia’s responses to the pandemic, at both national and state levels, are needing to be flexible but decisive, and as always, aligned with the best medical advice available.

Deakin is likewise responding to new information quickly and with great consideration. We have established a Campus Reactivation Group, which is planning a prioritised, phased and carefully managed approach to increasing activity on campus, through blended on-campus and off-campus arrangements.

At the time of writing, Victoria has seen a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the community, and we are monitoring this situation on a daily basis. We continue to work with the Victorian Government for a pathway for Deakin students to resume on-campus studies and hope we are able to progress this soon.

Congratulations to those in our Deakin community who received Queen’s Birthday Honours this year. Announced on June 8, the honours list recognises individuals who have achieved to a high level and made valuable contributions over and above their regular work. Members of Deakin’s community were recognised across a diverse range of fields, including: women’s sport, health care, marine science and ecology, education and the arts, reminding us once more of the positive impact our University makes well beyond our core activities. You can view the full list of recipients on our website.

I’d like to remind you about the upcoming (online) Deakin Alumni Awards, and encourage you to nominate an alum who demonstrates a commitment to using their talents for the betterment of their community. Nominating a graduate is easy, simply tell us about their achievements and how they have made a positive impact. There are two categories: ‘Alumni of the Year’ and ‘Young Alumni of the Year’ – the full details are featured in this edition.

Last week, I was pleased to see Federal Education Minister Dan Tehan’s recognition of the vital role of universities in the nation’s recovery. His policy announcements at the National Press Club on Friday, June 19, aligned well with Deakin’s commitment to rural, regional and high-growth metropolitan communities. However, the proposed rise in course fees for the humanities, economics and law, would have significant implications for students whose learning or career aspirations lie in those fields. These are a complex series of proposals which we will need to analyse in greater detail to understand the potential impacts on our students and the University. You can read my full statement here.

Thank you again to those of you who have supported Deakin’s Student Emergency Assistance Fund. So far, over 160 alumni, staff and friends have helped over 740 of our most vulnerable students.

Best wishes,

Iain.

Vice-Chancellor

Deakin University