3 April, 2012
Story By: Bonnie Yiu
Photo By: Sandra Quan
On the warm early autumn evening of the 22nd March 2012, UTS:Law threw open its doors to welcome back its alumni for its inaugural Alumni Reunion. Held at the recently renovated Haymarket campus, the Reunion offered an opportunity for alumni spanning UTS:Law’s 35 years to meet their former academics, catch up on the Faculty’s recent developments – the new JD/MBA, the $1 billion campus upgrade-in-progress, the launch of the highly successful Brennan Justice and Leadership Program and mentoring programs – and connect with the institution in which they had spent so many of their formative years.
Brian Moyle (Bachelor of Laws) and Joseph Cleworth (Bachelor Laws) had not seen each other since graduation in 1984 and were ecstatic to once again meet after over two decades. They were astounded by the upgrade of the Faculty and recalled how there used to be minimal student facilities and extra-curricular programs during their time as law students.
“The Faculty has completely transformed. We didn't have the student facilities and study areas when we were back at the Anthony Hordern Building (former Faculty of Law location on George Street) and there certainly wasn’t the sorts of social justice programs back then,” said Brian.
Linda Antoon (Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Laws), a recent graduate of 2008 agrees, adding that the improvements in student services and amenities significantly advance the quality of teaching and learning as well as improve students’ campus life.
“There is actually space for students to meet and study and the Faculty is now so well equipped with computers, it makes it much easier to stay on-campus compared to before… not to mention the refurbishment of the Faculty makes the area much more modern and visually appealing,” said Linda.
Another incremental development is introduction of the Brennan Justice Leadership Program. Endorsed by the former Chief Justice of the High Court, Sir Gerard Brennan, the program seeks to develop a student's capacity for and commitment to personal and professional leadership by way of service in the community, through various workshops as well as speaker series.
Bronwyn Olliffe, Associate Dean of Teaching and Learning, said the inclusion of programs such as the Brennan and Leadership progam are an integrative approach the Faculty has taken to teaching and learning. This has made UTS graduates highly sought after in the workforce by making students a more desirable and all-rounded individual.
Nicholas Mirzai, 2010 university medalist and current Associate to Justice Gummow AC, High Court of Australia said his education at UTS has prepared him for better opportunities.
“UTS has an innovative way of creating opportunities and forcing students to think outside the square. No doubt much of the work comes down to the individual but the facilitative environment and approachable staff offer fantastic support for those willing to go the extra mile,” he said.
The night ended with tremendous success as past and present students as well as academics gathered to share fond memories, their professional accomplishments and celebrated the success and progress of the Faculty of Law.
Todd St Vrain, External Engagement Manager encourages all alumni members to keep in touch and to engage with the Faculty.
“Building the relationship with the alumni community is one of the top priorities for UTS and the Faculties. Our alumni are some of our greatest advocates and supporters and events like the reunion build the relationship with them,” said St Vrain.
Graduates are encouraged to read the Law alumni newsletters for the latest news and attend upcoming alumni events.
