June 27, 2018

Robbie Collins retires from Shoalhaven Campus after 15 years

University farewells 'wonderful leader' who helped change direction of the region

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is set to farewell long-serving staff member, Associate Professor Robbie Collins, who will retire In July from her role as Head of Shoalhaven Campus.

Professor Collins is stepping down after close to 15 years at the helm of the regional campus.

During her time at Shoalhaven, Professor Collins has been a passionate advocate for the importance of education and has created strong ties with the local community.

“I set about helping people find a way to perceive the positives that were happening in the Shoalhaven,” Professor Collins said of her initial goals for the Nowra-based campus. “I wanted to create a community of learners, I wanted the community to come on campus as much as possible.

“The Shoalhaven is changing rapidly and we as a university have been at the forefront of driving that change.”

The campus and student body has grown exponentially in the 15 years since Professor Collins took the reins. Shoalhaven Campus now offers 14 degrees, across the areas of arts, business, commerce, economics, social science, education, medicine, and nursing, and is home to more than 500 students.

Professor Alison Jones, UOW’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Health and Communities), said Professor Collins had played an integral role in building Shoalhaven Campus to be a force for good in the local region.

She added that Professor Collins had created a strong sense of community on the campus, and provided support and encouragement for countless students who have come through her door.

“Robbie is a wonderful leader to the campus and to the Shoalhaven community,” Professor Jones said. “She is leaving behind a great legacy. We thank her for all that she has contributed to the UOW community and to the community as a whole, and wish her all the best in her retirement.”

Professor Collins will be farewelled in a staff morning tea at UOW’s Wollongong campus on Thursday 28 June at 10.30am.