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As we come to the end of 2021, there is much on which to reflect as we prepare for a new year.

Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, we have been able to celebrate some outstanding achievements across the University.

We are again ranked as South Australia’s top university for graduate employability, and our rankings across the board – in teaching and in research – continue to rise. Many of our researchers have also enjoyed career success this year, with many significant individual awards as well as notable contributions to local and global knowledge. This was exemplified most recently by the announcement of Professor Helen Marshall as South Australian of the Year and by the 2021 SA Scientist of the Year (in this year’s Science Excellence and Innovation Awards), Professor Shizhang Qiao.

We have also made significant progress in our plan to reshape the University for a more sustainable future. These changes, while challenging, are necessary to position us for further success in the post-COVID world.

We continue to be very proud of the impact our alumni are having in our community. Most notably, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC was appointed Governor of South Australia. Professor Nicola Spurrier has also continued to provide expert guidance on the state’s COVID-19 response as Chief Public Health Officer and Professor Helen Marshall and Dr Trudy Lin have been recognised as South Australia’s 2022 Australian of the Year and Young Australian of the Year respectively. In addition, over 60 of our alumni, staff and affiliates were recognised in the Australia Day and Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2021 for their distinguished service to our community. 

On behalf of the University community, I wish you and your families a safe and happy festive season, and a joyful start to 2022.