History of Health Sciences Alumni - The Graduates Association
Early in 1980 Professor Phyllis Watson and Helga Pettitt approached Dr Jeffrey Miller, the then Principal of Cumberland College of Health Sciences and asked for his blessing on our vision for a Graduates Association. He approved of the idea and gave us every assistance for the inaugural meeting which took place in 'S' Block on 13th February, 1980.
Chaired by Dr Miller, with 29 alumni and friends were present, the following office bearers were elected:
- Chairman: Phyllis Watson
- Vice-Chairman: Varoe Legge
- Secretary: Helen Mussett
- Treasurer: Helga Pettitt
During the next five years these positions changed several times due to various study and work commitments and in November 1988, alumni Helga Pettitt was elected Chairman.
The Graduates Association was governed by its Articles adopted by the Executive of the Graduates Association at a meeting held on 26 November 1991; and was formally recognised by the Senate, Standing Committee of Convocation
Membership of the Association was open to graduates from the Cumberland College upon payment of a lifetime membership fee of $50. The membership fees were invested and, from 1989 onwards, an Annual Study Grant of $1,500 for postgraduate students was established.
Life members received a Newsletter twice a year. Association volunteers were active in the distrubution of this newsletter and organising events. for the last 28 years, members of the Graduates Association acted Ambassadors for Cumberland College.
On October 4, 2007 after 28 years of involvement, the executive agreed to amalgamate with the Health Sciences Alumni of the University of Sydney.
In honour of Helga Pettit's 28 years of commitment to the faculty, funds from the Graduates Association are now held in a Capital Fund for the Helga Pettitt FHS Postgraduate Study Award.
For further information about this award please see our Scholarships page or contact, Karina Quinlan, Alumni Relations Officer on 02 9306 7487.