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Massey University News

Published: Mon 7 Apr 2003 07:07 PM
Massey University News
Professor James Chapman has been appointed to head the Massey University College of Education, based in Palmerston North. An expert in educational psychology and special education, Professor Chapman is best known for his support for phonics-based literacy teaching.
The annual graduation season starts next month, bringing many thousands of extra visitors into Palmerston North. The ceremonies start on Monday 12 May and end on Friday 16 May. The venue will again be the Regent Theatre on Broadway, with a graduation marquee in the Square. More details in the next newsletter.
Dexcel has presented scholarships aimed at encouraging high achievers into the dairy industry. Dexcel, which is charged with improving the competitiveness of New Zealand dairy farms, offers scholarships at both Massey and Lincoln. 16 were awarded at Massey this year.
The Veterinary School is taking in 24 full fee paying overseas students this year, mainly from the US, Asia and the UK. The increase follows last year's accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association. It means Massey-trained vets can now work throughout the world.
Palmerston North is a $4.50 steak and cheese pie and Massey is the pastry that holds it together. The city is also seen as a 'friendly laid-back family dog' and as a tree, it's visualised as having flowering parts showing new life and people growing. The research, amongst year 13 and first year tertiary students, is to assess the city's brand also involves UCOL, Vision Manawatu, Destination Manawatu, the Manawatu Promotional Trust and PNCC.
The campus has a new resident rock star academic. Dr Matthew Bannister found local fame as the guitarist for Dunedin band, Sneaky Feelings, in the '80s. He's now teaching popular music students in the Department of English and Media Studies. He won't be giving up his day job but says he's been inspired by some Palmerston North bands to start thinking about a new book. Events
The campus is winding up for two of the biggest events of 2003. More than 3000 students will take part in the 2003 New Zealand Community Trust University Games over Easter. Events cover more than 30 disciplines, many keenly watched by national selectors. It's the 101st games and runs from 18-21 April. Destination Manawatu estimates that the Games will bring $30,000 worth of spending to the city, boosted by the RNZ Navy Cruiser Reunion, also being held here in Palmerston North at Easter.
Also coming up - a techno toys grand prix. Massey University and the Royal Society have joined up to run the New Zealand Robotic Olympics. Primary and secondary students can design and race solar powered toys and can also enter a Robot Sumo Challenge and a Pathfinder Challenge. The finals will be at the Te Manawatu Science Centre in September. The driving force is mechatronics leader, Dr Chris Messom from the Albany campus.

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