12 March 2008 Union Life Memberships for Lincoln AUS pair

Two long-serving Lincoln University members of the Association of University Staff (AUS) were awarded Life Memberships of the union at Lincoln University today.

Associate Professor George Hill and Dr Rupert Tipples have been involved in supporting workers in tertiary education since long before the AUS was established. The involvement of each in union activities spans over 30 years.

Since the formation of the AUS Associate Professor Hill has served extensively on the local AUS committee, and also on the national committee, including a period as National President.

He was instrumental in setting up Lincoln University's voluntary lecturer evaluation system and has served on the Promotion Committee many times. His current significant contribution involves heading the industrial bargaining for the AUS at Lincoln University and being part of the national AUS Industrial Committee.

Dr Tipples joined the AUS from having a background in union activity in the UK. He has frequently served in significant roles as Lincoln's AUS President, and is currently Co-President with Lyndsay Ainsworth.

Dr Tipples is noted for his tenacity and persistence in helping individuals with issues that have affected their employment. Especially important has been his influence in promoting the AUS Benevolent Fund to members in need of financial support.

The Life Membership awards were presented by Maureen Montgomery, the current AUS National President, and Nanette Cormack, the Acting General Secretary of the AUS, at a staff celebration of the achievements of both men at Lincoln University.