Education trailblazer, Susan Hassall and nine other recipients were acknowledged for their exceptional services, work by the Hamilton City Council at the Civic Awards ceremony held yesterday (26 Nov.).
Hassall’s immense contribution to New Zealand’s education sector, teaching legacy and her impact on the wider community were celebrated with the awarding of the Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal at Council’s Civic Awards ceremony.
Susan Hassall’s entire teaching career was spent at Hamilton Boys’ and in 1999 she became the first female headmaster/ principal of a boys’ state school in New Zealand – a true trailblazer. As headmaster of Hamilton Boys’ High School for 25 years (1999 – 2024), Hassall “led with distinction – strengthening and growing the school’s reputation for sporting and academic excellence”.
“Her dedication to education and her ability to inspire others to strive for excellence has left a positive and long-lasting legacy,” Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate said.
Despite retiring from Hamilton Boys’ in 2024, Hassall has remained committed to education and to the community. She is Pro-Chancellor at the University of Waikato and is acting chief executive of Hospice Waikato, having already served on its board.
In 2021, Hassall was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to education.
Other recipients acknowledged at the Civic Awards ceremony included a range of organisations and interests, such as the Refugee Orientation Centre, child and youth advocates, champions of the arts, and community stalwarts.
Among those honoured was the late Diana Wood for her community work and advocacy in the Flagstaff and Rototuna areas. She was instrumental in securing Council funding for Te Kete Aronui Rototuna Library – a community-driven, high-quality facility which attracted 150,000 visitors in the first four months it was open.
Other recipients of this years Civic Awards for various services are:
- Madiha Ali – community
- Sandra Jensen – arts and culture
- Coryn Knapper – arts and culture
- Marieke Nation – arts and culture
- Refugee Orientation Centre – community
- Linda Roil – community
- Sano Taiese – arts and culture
- Miriana Wetere-Ryder – arts and culture
- Diana Wood – community (posthumous)
Mayor Southgate said the Civic Awards were a special way to celebrate and recognise the exceptional work and service of individuals and organisations to our city.
“Huge congratulations to every recipient. Each one should take great pride in knowing that their work helps to positively shape Hamilton Kirikiriroa and its people, and we are grateful for their significant contributions.”
– from NewsViews
