Key to the City marks 60 years of the University of Newcastle's impact

The University of Newcastle has been presented with the Key to the City in recognition of the Institution’s historic and ongoing contribution to Newcastle's cultural, economic and social life. 

The civic honour was formally conferred during a special graduation ceremony at City Hall today, celebrating the University's 60^th anniversary and its enduring partnership with City of Newcastle.

The University of Newcastle has been presented with the Key to the City in recognition of 60 years of impact. From L to R: Aunty Cheryl Newton, 
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, Chancellor, the Hon. Patricia Forsythe AM, Lord Mayor, Dr Ross Kerridge 
and Aunty Amanda Kelly at the official presentation during the University's graduation ceremony at City Hall today.

Image: University of Newcastle

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said City of Newcastle is proud to recognise the institution's six decades of service and its profound impact on generations of Novocastrians.

"The University and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration and progress. Their influence is woven through our city and communities," Cr Kerridge said.

"Over the past 60 years, the University has transformed lives and opened doors for tens of thousands of people in our city.

This honour particularly recognises the University's role in enabling so many 'first in family' students to go to university, and the University's ongoing commitment to providing educational opportunities for all."

The motion to bestow the Keys to the City was initiated by Cr Declan Clausen and supported by the elected Council in May, acknowledging the transformational power of education and the University's leadership in fostering access and equity through programs such as Yapug and Open Foundation.

“The University has long been a leader of inclusive education, with a deep commitment to equity that has delivered lasting benefits to our city, region, state, nation and beyond," Cr Clausen said.

“Our ongoing collaboration continues to be a cornerstone Newcastle’s progress, from community health and sustainability to First Nations engagement and urban innovation.

“The University’s central role in Newcastle’s urban renewal, through developments like NUspace and the City Campus, has helped shape the vibrant city we are today."

The Key was accepted on behalf of the University by Chancellor, the Hon. Patricia Forsythe AM. The ceremony also featured Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly, Elders in Residence at the University’s Wollotuka Institute, alongside students and special guests from the University’s 60-year history, including some who have been part of the community since its earliest days.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Alex Zelinsky said the honour reflected the collective efforts of the entire University community.

"This is a proud moment for our institution. For 60 years, our staff, students and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world," Professor Zelinsky said.

"We're honoured to accept the Key to the City and will continue to be ambassadors for Newcastle and the values we share."

The City of Newcastle ambassador program was established in 2017 to highlight individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to Newcastle. The University now joins 13 other recipients who have been honoured with the Key to the City.

Visit the website for more information on the City of Newcastle Ambassador Program.