Half a Century of Her Story
A celebration of 50 years of women at Emmanuel College
In 2025, Emmanuel College proudly celebrated 50 years since women first joined its community. This milestone marks a half-century of transformation, achievement and progress, recognising the women who have shaped the College’s history and contributed to its vibrant culture.
The admission of 60 young women to Emmanuel in 1975 was a pivotal moment, ushering in a new era of opportunity and diversity. Since then, generations of women have made their mark across academic, professional and personal spheres, enriching Emmanuel College with their voices, talents and accomplishments.
Reflecting on her time at Emmanuel, 1975 alumna, Wendy Jeays shared:
“It was good to meet a lot of people I wouldn’t have otherwise. The experience made you deal with new things — such as men! There were a lot of medical students at Emmanuel and being on campus was a definite advantage for studies. It was fun — especially the formal dinners in the beautiful dining room with the view out onto the river. Overall, Emmanuel was a positive experience.”
Wendy’s reflections capture the spirit of Emmanuel as a place where students grow academically and personally while forming connections that last a lifetime.
Throughout 2025, Emmanuel College hosted a series of events and activities to honour this golden anniversary, allowing us to reflect on the half a century of stories of Emmanuel women. These celebrations reflected on the past, acknowledged the progress made, and inspired future generations of women at Emmanuel.
Half a Century of Her Story Cocktail Party
On Saturday 26 July we celebrated 50 years of women at Emmanuel College in The Long Room, Customs House.
It was a wonderful celebration of Emmanuel women, both past and present, recognising how they have shaped our college, our community and each other.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to mark this special milestone.
Visit our photo album of the night.
Celebrating Our Stories
A year-long campaign to collect and share stories of women, highlighting their experiences, challenges and triumphs. Check out the stories of Emmanuel women below. If you know of an inspiring alumnus who you think should be featured please email us at alumni@emmanuel.uq.edu.au
Half a Century of Change
In celebration of the inspiring women who come through our wings each year a new scholarship is now available.
Young Women Leaders Scholarship
Awarded to a returning female-identifying student to encourage more young women to step into student leadership roles and to support outstanding future women leaders undertaking undergraduate study in any discipline.
This scholarship was formed through the Emmanuel College Women’s Committee working group, who sought to address the challenges of gender equality within the student leadership groups including the Emmanuel College Students’ Club Inc., Wing Leaders and Office Holders at the College.
Commemorative Jersey
In partnership with Canterbury, we have produced an original Emmanuel College commemorative jersey to mark the celebration of 50 years of women at Emmanuel.
Originally worn by the College rugby teams in the 1940s, the jersey was adopted for general wear in the 1980s by residents and worn when supporting sporting and cultural college events.
Proceeds raised from sales of the jersey will go towards our Young Women Leaders Scholarship.
