March 19, 2025

50 Voices of UOW: From the labs to the library to the lawns

Multimedia project showcases people who have shaped UOW over the past five decades and shares their vision for the future

Today (Wednesday 19 March) the University of Wollongong (UOW) officially launched 50 Voices, a project that showcases the people who have helped shape UOW over five decades, as part of the program celebrating its 50 years as an independent institution.

From the labs to the library to the lawns, 50 Voices tells the stories of the people who make UOW.

The year-long multimedia project will share stories from students, past and present staff, alumni, donors, and community members who have had a lasting impact on UOW, and their vision for the University’s future.    

50 Voices also offers a glimpse into the past on UOW’s very own Memory Mobile. The video series takes a trip down memory lane with people who are at the heart of UOW, as they relive personal stories while being driven around UOW campuses on a golf buggy.

Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Senior Professor Eileen McLaughlin said people from all walks of life have demonstrated an unwavering passion and dedication to UOW across many years and 50 Voices allows some of their stories to be put in the spotlight and celebrated.

“50 Voices honours the legacy of our people; the integral component of UOW’s story. The connection and sense of community that has been fostered over five decades is the lifeblood of UOW,” Professor McLaughlin said.

“We are proudly forged in the Illawarra and have become a world-class institution with a global footprint. That doesn’t happen without the people.

“50 Voices is a chance to celebrate the impact, inspiration and innovation of our incredible people.”

The first 50 Voices instalment release features 10 stories, each offering unique personal and professional insights on how UOW has shaped their lives, and how they in turn have helped shape UOW. More stories will continue to roll out throughout the year.

^{After her teaching career, Christine returned to UOW to lead the Alumni Bookshop. Her legacy is one of generosity, community, and a love for learning that continues to change lives.}

Christine Thompson tells the story of how UOW became her second home. From a teaching student to leading the Alumni Bookshop – which raises money to fund equity scholarships – her legacy is one of generosity, community, and a love for learning that continues to change lives.

“It’s rewarding to help not just younger people through the bookshop, but also to see the faces of the parents, the families who are doing it tough, just completely light up with relief,” Christine said.

Reflecting on his connection with UOW as part of 50 Voices, Emeritus Professor John Norrish said when he joined UOW in 1995 the University was fostering an environment that perfectly aligned with his vision of bridging industry and academia.

"I am a firm believer in industry connections," Emeritus Professor John Norrish said.

"Universities and researchers must work with end users, whether industrial, health, or community. It keeps people's feet on the ground and fosters innovation."

^{John would like to see the University continue to maintain connections with industry as it looks to the future.} 

UOW psychology student Mitch Hoskins (main image above) shares his story on how he has found his “home” at UOW and is on his dream pathway to becoming a clinical psychologist. A proud Dunghutti man with a young family, the former police officer said he is driven to give back to the community when he graduates.

“I'm quite biased, but my experience isn't community, it’s family. WIC (Woolyungah Indigenous Centre) is my family, and they are one of many reasons why I want to succeed,” Mitch said.

“Becoming a clinical psychologist and hopefully making an impact with all Mob within my local community, by engaging and promoting men's mental health, in particular suicide awareness.”

50 Voices also shares an anonymous personal recollection by a long-standing observer and enthusiastic supporter of the University of Wollongong reflecting on the history of UOW, sharing scenes from UOW’s first 50 years and its legacy.

The 50th Anniversary program, launched early this month, features a calendar of events inviting staff, students, alumni and the community to join in the anniversary celebrations throughout the year. UOW will host events, talks, seminars and reunions and share inspirational stories to honour the University's legacy and inspire excitement about its future. 

For more information about 50 Voices please visit UOW’s website: https://www.uow.edu.au/the-stand/50-voices/. For more information about the 50th Anniversary and the calendar of events please visit UOW’s website https://www.uow.edu.au/50-years/.