Convocation of UWA Graduates

Jacaranda tree confirms bond at UWA

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To celebrate the relationship between today's students and graduates from earlier days, Guild President Conrad Hogg and the Warden of Convocation Doug McGhie planted a white flowering jacaranda on Convocation Walk, east side of James Oval, on this year's annual Convocation Day.

Jacaranda tree confirms bond at UWA

Jacaranda tree confirms bond at UWA

The tree planting was followed by a Sundowner attended by almost 100 members of Convocation on the Fini Family Terrace of the Reid Library. A highlight was a speech by University Librarian, Jill Benn, updating Convocation members, many of whom have fond memories of the Reid Library, on the exciting changes that have taken place in the library.
Mr Hogg, UWA's 106th Guild President said he was delighted the Guild President is invited each year to plant a tree to commemorate Convocation Day, the anniversary of the first meeting of Convocation, held on 4 March 1913.
"It's a very symbolic way to mark the strong relationship between the Guild and Convocation, and a wonderful day to be involved".
"The UWA Guild plays a vital role on campus representing and offering a range of services to students. This is similar to Convocation’s role of representing all UWA graduates and assisting them to maintain their relationship with the University," he said.
Warden of Convocation, Doug McGhie said it is appropriate to celebrate Convocation with an annual tree planting as the University's beautiful 'landscape for learning' is an important part of campus life.
It is also fitting that the Day falls when the Guild President is early in his role for the coming year and just as new students begin their life at UWA. Once students graduate and receive their degrees they automatically become members of Convocation, the body established in the UWA Act to represent all graduates of the University of Western Australia.
"As members of Convocation, all UWA graduates have the right to participate in UWA Senate and Convocation Council elections as well as attend general meetings of the University to hear the progress UWA is making to achieve its goals," he said. "We also encourage them to stay in touch through the many media and networks available through Convocation and the University, and to enjoy each other’s subsequent success. These enduring networks are also able to assist the University to create a unique and valued UWA student experience."