Vice-Chancellor's message
Welcome to what is certain to be a year of meaningful change. I hope that you had opportunities to rest and recharge over the festive break, and to spend time with your family and friends before your return to work.
Our University’s extraordinary 150-year legacy was celebrated throughout 2024. Now we will be making history again as this year unfolds, and we play our part in a change that will resonate across future generations.
In less than 12 months we will open the doors to a new university which will transform education and research at a size and scale rarely seen in our nation. From signature research themes, in-demand new courses, an enhanced student experience, and a campus masterplan, there will be much to absorb and embrace during our years of transition and transformation.
I want to acknowledge that many staff from all around the University have worked incredibly hard to get us to this point, and during 2025 we will continue to be challenged. However, one of the most satisfying parts about working in a knowledge institution is the certainty that with intellect, tenacity, and dedication we can continue to meet our aspirations together. Each member of staff makes valuable contributions to our collective success, and I thank you sincerely for all that you do.
As already communicated, the Chancellor and I will provide our reflections on the major moments of 2024, and an update on Adelaide University, at the Annual Meeting of the University Community at 12pm on Monday 17 February. There will also be an opportunity for you to ask questions about topics that matter to you most. If you have not already, I encourage you to register to join in person, or online.
On behalf of the University, I am pleased to congratulate the members of our community who were recognised in the recent Australia Day Honours, for their significant contributions across a wide range of fields. A list of awardees and their notable accomplishments is available here.
It is important to remember that there are many more outstanding contributors to society than those recognised through these awards. This is a reminder for us to consider thanking and even nominating them for recognition as appropriate.
Over the coming weeks, our campuses will start buzzing with students and activity. As we welcome fresh faces at the start of their journey, as well as returning students, I look forward to sharing in their excitement, energy, and enthusiasm through O’Week and the calendar of activities at the start of Semester 1. I hope to greet many of you at these events, or when I catch up with teams in our Faculties and Divisions. I extend an especially warm welcome to staff who have recently joined our community at this fine University.
Please remember to care for yourselves and your colleagues as we embark on an ambitious year. Best wishes to each of you for a successful and healthy 2025.
Professor Peter Høj AC
Vice-Chancellor and President