MLS leaders celebrate alumni in East Asia

This November, Professor and Dean Michelle Foster and Associate Dean (International) Professor Jianlin Chen met with graduates of Melbourne Law School across Hong Kong and Shanghai to celebrate MLS’ enduring global impact.

The University of Melbourne hosted a graduation celebration in Shanghai with more than 200 graduates across eight faculties, including MLS, along with more than 350 family members. Following the event, the Melbourne Law School leaders gathered with many MLS alumni for a shared dinner.

In Hong Kong, Professor Foster and Professor Chen attended a reception for University alumni which attracted approximately 200 attendees, featuring MLS graduates from the LLB, JD, MLM and PhD programs.

Dean Foster said: “At both events I was approached by alumni who spoke passionately about the excellent teaching they enjoyed at MLS, with some recounting particular interactions or moments they remembered even after many years.

“It was a joy to hear their stories, memories, and reflections on their formative experiences here at MLS. It was an important reminder of the enduring influence of great teaching and a vibrant learning community.”

The Hong Kong office of Herbert Smith Freehills, where many MLS graduates have begun and developed successful careers, as well as MLS’s partners at City University of Hong Kong, also welcomed Professor Foster and Professor Chen during their stay.

Dean Foster was also invited to give a presentation on her recent Australian Research Council–funded research project, Understanding Statelessness in Australian Law, at City University of Hong Kong. The multi-year research project examined Australia’s historical role in addressing statelessness.

“The chance to visit, reconnect with, and meet valued members of our MLS community is a special opportunity and is always full of humbling and inspiring moments,” said Dean Foster.

“I look forward to returning to Hong Kong and Shanghai again and I am excited about the fantastic impact our graduates are making on the global legal profession, as well as within the industries of their home states.”