Vice-Chancellor's message

When I was younger I used to talk about the need to ‘sleep fast’.

It was said semi-jokingly, but ‘sleeping fast’ at times seemed like the only way to stay abreast of the challenges of our work and leave time for the things that are so important to human life: social connection with our families and friends, exercise, and the pursuit of hobbies.

I have rightfully been criticised for using the term and try not to do so anymore.

So, after the astounding efforts of staff in 2023, I urge you to ‘sleep long’ over the Christmas break, and continue to look after yourself when we return in 2024.

The end of the year always brings a swathe of award ceremonies that recognise staff excellence. For those of you who have been nominated for and/or received awards this year: congratulations. Know that your work is an inspiration for your colleagues, and because of your success we all benefit and strive to do better. 

Academic staff promotions are another means for recognising and rewarding outstanding leadership and consistently high levels of performance, and I congratulate staff who were successful in the recent round.

But I also want to acknowledge all our staff who may not have been recognised with formal awards and prizes. Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed and have a significant impact on our students, partners, and wider University community. You all make valuable contributions to progress and fulfil the University’s role as a leading institution in education, research, and social and cultural engagement in South Australia. Thank you for all that you do.

This year has seen many milestones, including the passage for legislation to establish a new Adelaide University. Teams from all over the University, in a range of disciplines, levels and with incredible capabilities, have come together to work on many aspects of the transition, and I am deeply appreciative to work amongst such splendid talent.

In the long history of humankind, those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed. That is a talent that is especially evident at the University of Adelaide. We can confidently enter 2024, our 150th year, with the knowledge that our combined efforts clearly demonstrate that together we can achieve great things, and have goals and aspirations that will lead us resolutely into the future. 

This is the last Staff News for 2023, so I wish you all a very safe, happy and revitalising festive season with loved ones. I look forward to seeing just how much more we can accomplish next year.

Professor Peter Høj AC
Vice-Chancellor and President