Long-serving UCOL Dean announces retirement

After 33 years and several roles and advances in technology at UCOL, Executive Dean Steve Sorsby has decided to hang up his mortarboard and retire.

Mr Sorsby joined UCOL as a Lecturer in March 1982 and was concurrently appointed to the newly created role of Computer Manager later in that same year. In 2012 he moved from his position as Director of Information Technology to take up the role of Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Business.

He says being involved in the massive technology changes that have occurred in education since the launch of the PC in 1982 has been amazing.

“Installing the first polytechnic email system in collaboration with Christchurch Institute of Technology, implementing local computer networks, the internet, wireless communications, and connecting to the Advanced research network all happened under my watch. Each had their challenges but each has contributed to providing UCOL students with leading edge technology.”

Over the intervening years, he has carried out a variety of roles including Integration Manager during the Wairarapa Community Polytechnic merger with UCOL, Facilities Manager, Corporate Services Manager and Client Project Manager on several major building projects, including the earthquake strengthening project of some of UCOL’s buildings in 2010.

“Although people are often surprised that I have worked for one employer for so many years, my time at UCOL has always been varied and interesting,” he says.

Reflecting on the last three years, Mr Sorsby says the Deans role is entirely different from anything else he has done at UCOL.

“I have enjoyed the many aspects of the role and working closely with all of the departments at UCOL, but the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the success that the students achieve whilst studying.

“Although I’m looking to take things a bit easier I’m sure I will continue to be involved in education one way or another, possibly coming back as a student.

“One thing life at UCOL has taught me is that you never stop learning.”

Mr Sorsby’s last day at UCOL is this Friday, April 10.

ENDS

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