Wednesday 16 December 2020 11:31am
We catch up with three extraordinary alumni and friends who celebrated their 100th birthdays this year. Each have made invaluable contributions to society in their chosen fields and interests, and mix their wisdom with a good dose of humour.
And if you’re turning 100 this year, remember to let us know so we can celebrate the milestone with you!
Honor McKellar QSM
Honor McKellar QSM: It’s all in the words
For Honor McKellar, music is all about words and movement, rather than notes and sound. The distinguished mezzo-soprano and vocal teacher celebrated her 100th birthday in November at a reception at the University. The first full-time executant voice teacher on the staff of Otago’s Music Department, Honor has taught some of New Zealand’s most renowned singers.
Honor McKellar QSM: It’s all in the words...
Keith Williamson
Keith Williamson: Going to war between degrees
In the 1940s, Keith Williamson served in World War II between his BA and his MA. In 1939 he graduated from Dunedin Teachers’ Training College and in 1941 graduated from the University of Otago with his bachelor’s degree in Latin, and then left New Zealand to join the Royal Navy in the UK. He spent the war years in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, on convoy duty between Liverpool and Gibraltar. At the end of the war he came back to Otago, and graduated with his MA, majoring in Latin, in 1946.
Keith Williamson: Going to war between degrees...
Les Winslade QSM
Les Winslade QSM: Rugby stalwart still young in spirit
Otago University Rugby Football Club (OURFC) committee stalwart in the 1970s and 80s, Les Winslade, celebrated his 100th birthday on 28 September this year. Les was on the committee of the club from 1973 to 1982, when he retired to Taupo in 1982. Over his years with the club Les held the positions of A team manager, as well as committee member, Club Captain, Secretary and President. An active community member all his life, Les was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal (QSM) for services to the community in 2009.
Les Winslade QSM: Rugby stalwart still young in spirit...
