The Dean is responsible for overseeing the daily management of all aspects college life, supporting both the students and residential staff in making sure the college is safe, enjoyable and all-inclusive.

Gillian Turner

Dean, Basser

My name is Gillian and I was born in Canberra but grew up in Sydney. I am a lifelong UNSW alumna, having studied and worked here for over 12 years, a history geek and camping enthusiast. 

As a postgraduate Honours student, I was lucky enough to be part of the Baxter team as a resident fellow and then Deputy. After leaving there to pursue a PhD and raise two lovely little children, I couldn't keep away and have returned to Basser as Dean. Working in an environment that fosters a thriving and caring community is a dream and I am excited to be able to continue to support and contribute to student and staff development in the flourishing culture of Basser. 

To me, Basser is a home. It is a place where people are more than peers,  they are friends and that instils a level of respect and duty to each other. Basserians are passionate about working together to pursue their own and shared goals and the community culture that only grows stronger supports them in this. 

My favourite event at Basser would have to be the Harbour cruise. It comes at the end of a long week of meeting new life-long friends and is a great way to celebrate the beginning of a fantastic new year. 

What's your meal routine on Campus?

Tough one! I have to start the day with a Maze coffee from lower campus, but you can't go wrong with a pasta from Stellini's or a tailor-made salad from the upper food court. 

How do you spend your free time?

I love to spend my free time with my family and friends at the beach, and camping when we can. I love movies (especially painfully dramatic historical ones) and having quiet nights in with one of our (too) many board games. 

Your favourite travel experience?

I have been to every continent including Antartica and lived in South America and Europe. If I had to choose one, it would be the six weeks I spent travelling Europe with my mum and Nana. 

Interesting facts about me?

I can speak Spanish somewhat fluently as I spent two years living in Chile.

Deputy Dean

The Deputy Dean is responsible for assisting the Dean of the College in the daily management of the college, as well as fulfilling the role of Resident Fellow in terms of providing academic and pastoral support to a group of students.

Guy Barker

          Guy Barker

Resident and Student Fellows

A Student Fellows (SF) is assigned every year in Basser College. They’re a volunteer senior student whose role is to create and run a range of proactive wellbeing initiatives for the entire college. The SF works closely with the RF’s, Deputy Dean and Dean, ensuring the wellbeing of all residents is top of mind

Resident Fellows (RFs) are staff members of UNSW and typically in their final years of study or already holding a degree. RFs live with the students on their floors and provide daily academic and pastoral support. RFs aren’t teachers, but they’re a little like a supportive older sibling with loads of experience to pass on and a willingness to help guide the residents. 

Basser SF RF