Remembering Professor Emeritus Velmurugu Ravindran

Professor Emeritus Velmurugu “Ravi” Ravindran was a world-leading authority on poultry nutrition whose research transformed poultry production in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world.

Ravi built strong partnerships with industry, helping research findings move rapidly into practice. He led comprehensive research programmes focused on improving nutrient use and reducing nutrient losses to the environment.

His work has had a lasting impact on the global feed industry, enabling a wider range of ingredients to be used more efficiently in poultry diets.

Read more about Professor Emeritus Velmurugu Ravindran

Remembering Sara Georgeson MNZM

Massey alumna Sara Georgeson MNZM was a lifelong advocate for disabled people whose work helped create a more accessible and inclusive society.

Sara graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work in 1980 and a Master of Social Work in 1993. She later co-authored the chapter “Negotiating New Disability Practice Contexts: Opportunities and Challenges for Social Workers” in the 2019 book New Theories for Social Work Practice.

Sara also served as co-chair of the Palmerston North City Council Disability Reference Group, where she championed accessibility and the inclusion of disabled people in civic life.

Remembering Michael O’Connor

Massey alumnus Michael O’Connor (Ngāti Hauiti) was a dedicated educator who inspired generations of students and teachers during a career spanning more than 50 years.

A Bachelor of Science graduate, Michael served as principal of Queen Elizabeth College and Awatapu College. He later taught mathematics at Palmerston North Boys’ High School before supporting beginning teachers as a supervisor until his retirement in 2012.

Michael also made a significant contribution to the Palmerston North community through his involvement with the Palmerston North RSA and local sport.