Altiora in votis, the College motto. Our founders certainly had vision for the future.

As many will know, the University of Otago is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. As part of the many events in honour of this achievement, the Otago Museum is currently displaying an  exhibit which showcases  showcases 150 years of research, creative works and their benefits to the global community.

I paid a visit to the exhibit* this week and was pleased to see mention made of St Margaret's College in a section covering the University's residential colleges, including  a 1924 photo (see the top of this article) of Members taken in front of our Main Building.

My visit to the exhibition got me thinking again about the College's wonderful history over the 118 years it has been in existence, since it was established as the first residential establishment for women students at the University of Otago.

On return to my office and computer after viewing the exhibition, I hunted out some old photos I knew we had of days gone by, which provided the impetus for this mainly pictorial article. I hope you enjoy the walk down memory lane with me.

And back to the present:

If you would like a copy of the College's centennial history book (1911 - 2011), please feel free to contact us. It's a substantial publication and written by College alumnus and historian, Dr Susannah Grant.

In keeping with the College’s motto of "altiora in votis" or "set your heart on higher things”, the College continues with its mission of providing excellent facilities, a friendly atmosphere and a caring and respectful community so that our Members can thrive in their studies, make wonderful friends, have healthy fun, and develop as individuals and contributing members of society.

*The 150th exhibition runs until November 2019 on the first floor of the Otago Museum. It's well worth a visit.

(Story by the Master, Dr Charles Tustin)