Colleges are places for dreaming

This year has been a particularly fulfilling one. In semester 1, we have been at full capacity with a diverse, respectful and altogether inspiring cohort of students. All of our sporting, social, cultural activities and events have resumed, without the constant disruptions and disappointments of the pandemic years. The spirit of the College is one of joy and enthusiasm, as our students can again embrace all that college life has to offer.

founders. One of these was Miss Elizabeth Lothian, the joint honorary secretary of the Provisional Committee, set up in August 1917 to establish an independent, non-denominational residential college for women attending the University of Melbourne. She served on the committee throughout its twenty years of struggle, until the College finally opened its doors in 1937. She was then appointed to the Committee of Management, established by the government in 1937, to be responsible under the Carlton Land Act of 1933, for the operation of the College. This body was then succeeded by the statutorily incorporated College Council, on which Miss Lothian served.

All of this Miss Lothian did, in a voluntary capacity. When the College opened, she even volunteered as a resident tutor in Classics, until it could afford to pay the tutors. On her resignation in 1953, the College Council, recorded their great appreciation for her long and valuable service, deep interest in the College and high standard of scholarship.

Following her death in 1959, the Annual Report recorded ‘the loss of their oldest Tutor, Miss E. I. Lothian, whose regular presence over the years had been so much appreciated’, noting ‘her gifted and devoted services as a teacher of Classics, services generously given over a period of sixteen years.’

Miss Lothian’s contribution was crucial in transforming the founding vision for the College from an unrealised project into a vigorous reality. Like all the founders, she worked hard to achieve this, for she understood and believed in the value of a college experience. When asked once ‘What are residential colleges?’ she replied ‘Colleges are places for dreaming.’ (University College Newsletter, June 1996). As many of us would agree, they remain so to this day. Over the years, the College has continued to pursue its founding vision. This has only been possible, however, due to the labours and generosity of our UC community, which underpins its success. We will continue to build our capacity to provide a collegiate education where students flourish through a living and learning experience that is second to none. Thank you all for your help and support!

Dr Jennifer McDonald Head of College