Champion of the Capital Receives Medal

Renowned Wellingtonian the Hon Fran Wilde has started the year in style. Having just been made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of her work in the community and Wellington’s local government sector, Fran will also be presented with Wellington Institute of Technology’s Medal at the Institute’s graduation ceremony tonight. She will be the third only recipient of the medal, which recognises long and distinguished contribution to the region and community.

“Fran’s work for the greater Wellington region and her work in the community is recognised through the awarding of this medal”, says Roger Sowry, Council Chair. “We are very pleased that Fran, who has worked in many capacities for New Zealand, Wellington City, and the wider region, has accepted this award.”

“It is also appropriate that the graduation ceremony will be the first for the new combined Council representing both Wellington Institute of Technology and Whitireia Community Polytechnic. Together, the two polytechnics serve the whole Wellington region; Fran’s region-wide vision has continually challenged and spurred us all to always take the wide view of our region and its contribution to New Zealand.

Roger Sowry said the recognition given to Fran Wilde also provides inspiration to WelTec graduates about to embark on their careers. “Fran is a wonderful role model for our students, highlighting the opportunities available to them in their working lives, and she exemplifies how a lifelong passion and pride in your work can lead to a very fulfilling and rewarding career,” says Mr Sowry.

Fran said that she was very honoured to receive the award. “Recognition by the Wellington Institute of Technology is a great honour. I’ve been fortunate to have opportunities to demonstrate in a tangible way my commitment to the region in terms of boosting what Wellington has to offer not only its own citizens but the rest of New Zealand and overseas visitors.”

“I am a strong believer in education and training and WelTec, as one of the key providers of skilled graduates with strong vocational skills is a great asset to the region. WelTec contributes in a significant way to the economy of the region. Its current initiative – the joint venture with Le Cordon Bleu - will attract not only international students, but also New Zealanders from other centres to study hospitality, cookery and culinary techniques. The co-location of Le Cordon Bleu with WelTec’s School of Hospitality in central Wellington is very exciting and will create new opportunities to promote the region nationally and internationally when the purpose built facility opens in September.

The WelTec Medal is being awarded to Fran Wilde at the WelTec graduation ceremony, 7pm on Thursday 2 February at the Michael Fowler Centre. Almost 400 graduates are attending the ceremony with over 1700 eligible to graduate. The WelTec Medal is an honorary award in recognition of an individual’s contribution over a number of years in the community at large. 2 WelTec Medals have been awarded to date.

ENDS

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