Fancy a study session or a late-night essay finish? You’re standing before the Kate Edger Information Commons. It’s a hub of activity and learning right here on the City Campus. But the name itself carries a story.
The Kate Edger Information Commons is named after Kate Milligan Edger. She was a true pioneer. Kate was the first woman in New Zealand to earn a degree. She was also the first in the British Empire to get a Bachelor of Arts. That’s quite a feat.
Kate Edger earned her BA in Mathematics back in 1877. She studied at Auckland College and Grammar School. At that time, it was affiliated with the University of New Zealand. After graduating she taught at Christchurch Girls’ High School. She later obtained a Master of Arts in 1882. Later she became the first principal of Nelson College for Girls. This was from 1883 to 1893.
Did you know that Kate Edger had to enter classrooms with downcast eyes? This was because she was the only girl in the class. Yet, she persevered. She later said her male peers treated her courteously. When applying for a scholarship she omitted her gender. She simply applied as K. Edger.
The University Library proudly displays Kate Edger’s degree. The naming of this facility honors women’s educational achievements in New Zealand. It shows the progress in education.
But there’s another name associated with this place: Ururangi. Ururangi marks the beginning of a journey. It is the journey of the Māori god Tāne-nui-ā-rangi. He climbed into the heavens to gain the three baskets of knowledge. These baskets held all wisdom. Ururangi is the gateway to Tāne’s climb. So, it’s fitting for a place where undergraduate students begin their higher learning.
The Kate Edger Information Commons was opened in 2003. It quickly became the vibrant new heart of the City Campus. It was an award-winning and innovative building. The Kate Edger Information Commons also became a model for student support services.
The Prime Minister at the time, Helen Clark, described it as a stunning building. She also emphasized that it takes the University Library to a whole new level. Students embraced the flexible study and social spaces. It even became the first library service to offer 24-hour access.
You can buy a pie borrow a laptop and finish an essay at 2 in the morning. The Kate Edger Information Commons embodies determination, desire, and opportunity. It encourages future generations of students. This is your gateway to higher learning.