Last week Merran asked us all to share stories of inspiration, to reflect on some of the exciting and heartwarming things which happened around Unitec this year.
The response, particularly with so many already off on holiday, has been outstanding and we look forward to hearing from as many of you as possible.
The prize of a $100 Pak’nSave voucher is still up for grabs, with the winner to be picked at the start of Semester 1 when we’re all back on deck.
Below are (very) short summaries of some of the stories we’ve received so far, which we hope will help us all head off on a positive note, looking forward to a fantastic 2019.
Please keep the stories coming in to chiefexecutive@unitec.ac.nz!
Architecture grads deliver community projects in India
Two recent architecture grads gave a talk on the work they’ve been doing since completing their studies at Unitec. Hannah Broatch and Mason Rattray, through their persistence, talent and intercultural skills have made their graduate projects a reality, focusing on delivering community-relevant social housing for constrution workers and dairy farmers in Ahmedabad and Haryana in India. Their efforts have brought improved security, privacy, facilities and santiation.
Performing and Screen Arts students try ‘Urban Intervention’
A group of Unitec 2nd year acting students (as part of a project organised by their lecturer) donned half-masks and took to the streets to perform improvised situations and interact with crowds during the opening of the Te Ara Manawa Coastal Walk at Hobsinville Point and at Aotea Square and Queen Street. They entertained crowds for hours, experienced a new type of performance, and spread the word about Unitec’s amazing Performing and Screen Arts programme.
Inspiration during tough times
A Health and Social Development team member told us about their experience during the Renewal Plan process. While it was a challenging and at times quite a sad time with departures, she said the lasting impression was of the compassionate and collaborative approach taken by the HoPPs, Deans, and ALs involved in the process.
Creative Industries hits high notes
Amidst all the change and challenges, a Creative Industries team member says the team has also found an increased closeness, focus, and continued to deliver incredible events.
Highlights include the Uni Shorts International Student Film Festival which attracted over 100 entries from around the world, setting new Box Office records for shows including the Shakespeare Season and Dance Showcase, and many successful workshops and shows which boosted interest and new students from Auckland secondary schools.
Volunteer Expo gets record numbers
The Career Development Team put on it’s seventh annual Volunteer Expo and it was the biggest ever with 17 volunteer organisations attending, collaboration with other Unitec teams, and the inclusion of our students who got stuck in and helped out on the day. The team was blown away by the level of support from staff and students to help make the Te Puna event an incredible experience for all.
Small Animals making big moves
While for many of us the moves were all about the Wagener (B110), it was the Small Animal Unit team which may have had the biggest upgrade, moving out of an old converted tractor shed and into the prefabs beside Building 48. The Moves team quickly (and lovingly) crafted the buildings into a purpose-built space in which the Small Animal Unit can really showcase their talent. They didn’t have to wait long for the opportunity as television show Fanimals came to visit shortly after the move, filming staff and students in action with their highly trained and musically talented chooks, and reporting on their outstanding research into animal behaviour.