Long-serving staff of the Division of Sciences recognised with continuous service awards by University senior leaders, from left: Brent Pooley (Geology), Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson, Dr Paul Denys (Surveying), Professor Lloyd Davis (Science Communication), and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Sciences Professor Richard Barker. Absent: Susan Mackenzie (Botany), Associate Professor Nancy Rehrer (Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences), and Professor Sheila Skeaff (Human Nutrition).
Long-serving staff in the Division of Sciences have been recognised for their dedicated service to the University in the inaugural round of continuous service awards.
The University-wide initiative celebrates long-serving kaimahi for their sustained contribution to Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka upon reaching a significant work anniversary.
In the first round of the initiative in the Division of Sciences, 27 staff received continuous service awards. For these staff, the period between January and August 2025 represents the anniversary of their employment – five years as a minimum followed by successive five-year periods.
Celebrated in the round of awards were the following staff (in the photo) who have reached a significant anniversary of 30 years and greater:
Professor Lloyd Davis, Stuart Chair in Science Communication, 40 years
Brent Pooley, Laboratories Manager Department of Geology, 40 years
Susan Mackenzie, Technical Assistant Department of Botany, 35 years
Professor Sheila Skeaff, Department of Human Nutrition, 35 years
Dr Paul Denys, School of Surveying, 30 years
Associate Professor Nancy Rehrer, School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, 30 years
Division of Sciences Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Barker says staff are at the core of the teaching, research and community activities across the Sciences.
“The continuous service awards celebrate not only their dedication, but also the exceptional contributions made to Otago. It is the people that are and always will be our greatest asset. This in my opinion, is what makes this University such a special place,” Richard says.
Originating as an initiative within the University Operations Group, the awards programme is endorsed by the Senior Leadership Team to be recognised across the University. Staff recognised with a continuous service award each receive a letter, certificate and badge.
Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson says the awards provide a meaningful opportunity to acknowledge the dedicated service of academic and professional staff across the University.
“The contributions our people make to the continuing success of Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka run far and wide. The awards recognise our appreciation of their efforts and dedication that ensures Otago continues to thrive as a place to work, teach and research,” Grant says.
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