To mark International Women’s Day, we proudly celebrate a group of remarkable women leaders whose contributions to our University not only shape its future but also leave a lasting impact on our culture and society. The exhibition highlights selected material from the University Archive and Special Collection over four decades of VU’s history, from the mid-1990s to today, to showcase key achievements, pivotal events, and the university’s deep engagement with its community and society. It celebrates the remarkable contributions of women in shaping, leading, and advancing cultural, social, and educational milestones.

"In bringing together the material for this exhibition it has been inspiring to consider that the impact that so many of VU's women leaders have had on the University itself reflects the incredible impact that they have had on the broader  community and our social fabric. Women who have shaped VU have shaped Victoria and beyond via their involvement in social activism, political life and community service, their commitment to education, to creating opportunities for women and a sense of shared social responsibility that is about  realising the potential of communities and people. All of the women featured in the various aspects of this exhibition have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to learning, to social contribution and community engagement. The exhibition can only be an introduction, a small sample of their achievements in the context of VU. It is  an invitation to explore further."

Jane Miller
University Librarian

Credits for the images used in the banner.

1. Gaye Hamilton - Link to image attribution 

2. Liz Beattie - Link to image attribution

3. Jean McLean - Link to image attribution

4. Helen Hill - Link to image attribution

5. Alma Thorpe - Original photograph provided by The Aboriginal History Archive (AHA), VU.