25 years “Leading and Illuminating” at Whitireia
For immediate release
Celebrating the Ngati Toa signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the launch of 25 years “Leading and Illuminating” of Whitireia
Hon Hekia Parata, Minister of Education, spoke about the future of education in the context of the Treaty of Waitangi, to around 80 invited guests at an early morning ceremony at Takapuwahia Marae, in Porirua on Tuesday.
Every year Ngāti Toa and Whitireia, mark the Ngāti Toa signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This year Whitireia staff and invited guests enjoyed the occasion followed by breakfast hosted at the marae. The celebration also marked the launch of the 25 year “Leading and Illuminating” book which showcases Whitireia over the last 25 years.
This book is a celebration of the last 25 years said Don Campbell. “It celebrates the journey of Whitireia from its beginnings as Parumoana Community College in 1986 and through a combination of successful leadership, wonderful staff and a hugely supportive community Whitireia has, in this short quarter-century, grown to become one of this country’s leading polytechnics with an impressive list of achievements”.
The book highlights the success of Whitireia and the impact it has had on the community in which it is established. It is now one of the largest businesses in the area, producing a range of graduates that are helping to build and support its community. “Polytechnics do for their communities. They help them grow and regenerate and we are pleased to have been part of this over the last 25 years” said Campbell.
Produced and written by Steele Roberts Publishers for Whitireia, the book and its contents are based on interviews and research completed by Rebekah Burgess and the assistance of staff and students who were happy to be able to contribute and relay their “Whitireia stories”.
Complimentary copies of the book were given to guests at Tuesday’s celebration with the opportunity to have copies signed by past and present Chief Executives of Whitireia, Turoa Royal, Deidre Dale and Don Campbell.
The 25 year, “Leading and Illuminating” book is available for purchase through Whitireia.
ENDS