Message from the Vice-Chancellor

Research conducted at the University of Adelaide or in partnership with other institutions has a major impact.

This Summer issue of Lumen highlights work in chemistry and global warming where researchers are seeking effective solutions to major problems.

At the age of 91, Professor Frank Fenner, whose memoirs were launched at the University of Adelaide this year, remains an active contributor to scientific research. His long career is an inspiration - as was the sadly short career of this issue's "Adelaide Pioneer", Professor Thorburn Brailsford Robertson, a 1905 graduate who established the discipline of biochemistry, and made a major contribution to the manufacture of insulin.

The University's international graduates have long made a significant contribution to the world. This issue features an interview with the award-winning writer Professor Kirpal Singh, a PhD graduate of the 1970s who now teaches creative thinking at the Singapore Management University.

At the University of Adelaide, we believe that a quality education is marked by well-roundedness. We encourage students to explore all that our University has to offer beyond the world of the classroom. Our elite athlete program, for example, seeks to make it possible for high-achieving students also to be high-achieving athletes. In this issue, we tell the stories of student athletes in three diverse fields who have balanced the demands of their studies and the demands of their sport to winning effect.

The performing arts require a discipline as intense as sport, and we also celebrate two young graduates of the Elder Conservatorium--the twin cellists, Pei-Sian and Pei-Jee Ng--who are set to take the world by storm.

A deep conviction of the value of the performing arts has guided the philanthropy of Maureen Ritchie, who is an inspiring example of how the generosity of individuals can make a difference. This issue also records the generous support of the Government of South Australia for the Heritage campaign, as well as other examples of ways in which alumni and community support can help the University make an impact on people's lives.

These and other stories celebrate our University, its graduates, and its contribution to the community. I hope you enjoy them.

PROFESSOR JAMES A. McWHA
Vice-Chancellor and President