We are an association of graduates, a graduate residential college and a graduate meeting place.
Vision
The Graduate Union is renowned as the pre-eminent Australian membership association of graduates of universities from around the world, living, meeting and learning within a vibrant and active collegium which advances education and its application for the good of society.
Mission
Our Graduate House – a residential college and meeting place – and Graduate Union – an association with members across the world – bring together undergraduates and graduates (from first degree through further study, careers, caring roles and retirement) for the socially responsible advancement and application of education.
Purpose
The principal purpose of the Graduate Union is the advancement of education for the benefit of the community by:
- providing high quality accommodation in Australia for university students, in order to promote and foster: (a) post-graduate study, research and career development; and (b) learning, collegiality and collaboration between undergraduates and postgraduates for the benefit of the education, research, and not-for-profit sectors in Australia
- providing meeting facilities and services in Australia for the academic, research and not-for-profit sectors
- promoting and bringing together graduates through membership, so that educational, professional, cultural and social relations and networks are fostered and maintained, including by way of: (a) hosting networking functions, lectures and events in Australia; (b) hosting and promoting lectures from members and guest lecturers; (c) publication of a newsletter, magazine, blog or any other form of publication to support, develop and promote academic achievement; (d) publication of a newsletter, magazine, blog or any other form of publication to support, develop and promote career development for undergraduates and graduates, and to support, develop and promote business achievements, volunteer work and beneficial work in the community by undergraduates and graduates
- developing a community that otherwise supports and sustains: (a) academic, career and social experiences; (b) lifelong sharing of knowledge and skills; and (c) educational outcomes for the wider public benefit
Values
Values of our Members
- collegiality
- universal friendship
- lifelong learning
- social consciousness and responsibility
- intellectual challenge and contribution
- intercultural and interdisciplinary experiences
Values of our Association
- responsibility, accountability
- stewardship
- contribution, performance
- professionalism, integrity
- transparency and ethics
- welcome, encouragement
- support, inclusion
- respect for differences
- integration with diversity
- focus on strengths
Major Historical Milestones
The Graduate Union boasts a rich history spanning over 100 years. Below are some of our major milestones, esteemed Members and fond memories.
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Make a difference
Be a part of our longstanding organisation and directly impact the future of The Graduate Union.
Patrons
The Patrons of our Association are appointed by Council in recognition of high standing in the community and for their demonstrated support and promotion of the objectives of the Association (see rule 9 of the Rules of the Association).
We are proud and honoured to announce the appointment in 2017 of our Inaugural Patrons, Ms Heather Kudeviita and Mr Neil Taylor, the profiles for whom are shown below.
2017
Ms Heather Kudeviita
Ms Heather Kudeviita was awarded Honorary Life Membership and appointed one of our Inaugural Patrons in 2017. Ms Kudeviita is well-known and much loved by GU Members and staff, and has contributed consistently to the Association since joining in 1962 (56 years ago). Ms Kudeviita was co-trustee of the William Berry (and [now named] Barbara Funder) Postgraduate College Trust with Barbara Funder from 1999 to 2016. She is a regular at GU Collegiate functions, particularly the monthly luncheons, and has hosted a French-speaking monthly lunch for several decades.
Mr Neil Taylor
Mr Neil Taylor joined the Graduate Union in 1975 and served as Chair of Council from 2004 to 2007, retiring in 2009 after ten years on Council. In 2009, Mr Taylor was presented with Honorary Life Membership for being ‘tireless in his support of the Graduate Union. Evidence of his generosity is apparent throughout Graduate House and most lately with him having named the ‘Taylor Room’ in the new Stella Langford Wing.’ Mr Taylor is a regular attendee at the Association’s functions, particularly the Monthly Luncheon and the annual events. He is passionate about the Association, has offered longstanding support and has strong and enduring cross-generational networks.
Mr Taylor was appointed one of our Inaugural Patrons in 2017.
