A Farewell to 37 Years at Birmingham Newman University

In today’s world with the fast-paced world of work, longevity in one place is rare. Yet, after 37 years here at Birmingham Newman University, Lynn Whitehouse bids farewell. Her departure prompts reflection on her transformative journey over the years.

In her own words, Lynn has shared her experiences and memorable moments from starting her life at Birmingham Newman University working in housekeeping to Faculty Office Administrator.

We wish you all the best for your next chapter, Lynn.

I joined the housekeeping team here at Newman on 14^th September 1987, working under the infamous Mrs Dillon.  As well as working alongside family members I made some great friends and still in touch with some of them to this day.

As time moved forward Newman encouraged staff to improve their IT skills, I went on to complete several courses with the support of Yvonne Peers who was an administrator for the IT department at the time.  Yvonne went on to become the Office Manager for the School of Education Office and knowing I wanted to change roles encouraged me to apply for a vacancy within the School Office.  To my delight I was given the opportunity to join the School Office in September 2004, the same day that my granddaughter started primary school.  From a very young age my granddaughter would say that she wanted to be a teacher and she was going to come to Newman to train so I needed to stay in my job until she’d done that.  She joined the Primary ITE programme in September 2018 gaining her QTS with a 1^st class honours degree in July 2021, and is now enjoying teaching in a primary school.  I was one very proud Nan on the day she graduated at Symphony Hall.

During my time at Newman there have been 6 Principals/Vice Chancellors and 4 name changes as Newman grew from Newman College through Birmingham Newman University.

I ‘ve been lucky enough to join trips to The Gambia and Valencia but didn’t quite get to go to Hong Kong but I’ve totally enjoyed every second of my work on all of the trips and placements that I have helped to arrange over the years.

I could not tell you how many students I have helped, in all sorts of ways, from my days working in Halls of Residence through to supporting students through their teacher training journey’s but I can tell you that I am very grateful for my time here at Newman. It is a very special place where I have made lifelong friends who are more like family than friends. We have celebrated and cried together through lots of family events over a 20-year period and I know I will miss the day-to-day laughter in the office, but I also know that they will remain in my life for many more years to come.

So, this week I say goodbye to Birmingham Newman University. Yes, a tear or two will be shed but it is time to move on to the next chapter of my life which will include lots of family time with my children and 3 wonderful grandchildren and, of course, a few holidays with my husband.

– Lynn Whitehouse