Warm Pacific Greetings for Professor Nic Smith

Vice-Chancellor Professor Nic Smith was welcomed by the leaders of several student groups in an event co-led by VUWSA President Jessica Ye and the Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika) Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban.

Student association member standing at a podium, with a group of people sat in a row behind her.

Jessica introduced the leaders of Ngāi Tauira, the Pasifika Students Council (PSC), Victoria International Students Association (V-ISA), the Postgraduate Students Association (PGSA), and UniQ at the event, which saw around 150 people gather in the Hunter Lounge.

Each of the leaders shared the mission of their student groups, what they have achieved for their student communities, and their hopes and aspirations for students together with the support of the Vice-Chancellor and the University.

Jessica reiterated the importance of the voice of the student leaders that student groups have a key role in encouraging students to come back to campus.

“This is a great opportunity for us to build a partnership of good faith where we can work together with the new Vice-Chancellor to meet the needs of students. Valuing and listening to what students say is critical to a student-centric university.”

Dame Winnie said, “It’s been great for our student leaders to have this unique opportunity to welcome the Vice-Chancellor. The student leaders were articulate and amazing, and Nic was given a sense of the student groups commitment to working together with him.

Kirsty McClure, Director of Te Pūrengi Student Wellbeing and Experience, welcomed the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of the student support staff.

During the event, Professor Smith thanked the groups present both student leaders and staff representing academic and professional for their warm welcome.

“Thank you for your passion and your commitment to our diverse student community. It has reminded me that we must think of the University as a whole. Staff and students are all members of our University community together.”

He explained that he will continue to listen to all of our experiences, and expressed his appreciation for all who organised and were present at this welcome.

Dame Winnie then shifted the community’s attention to the lavish spread put on with thanks to the staff and students who brought food to share. “Those of you invited today were invited because together we know you are committed to our students. Let’s get on with the main part of the evening to  mix and mingle with Nic and others, as we welcome him to our community.”