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.

Lauren Ryznar

Dean, Philip Baxter

I have come a weird and wonderful route to become Dean here at Philip Baxter! Believe it or not I started out my career as a self-employed Dance teacher in Scotland, having studied a Masters of Science in Dance Science and Education from Edinburgh University, and was involved with both the Royal Academy of Dance and the Scottish Qualifications Authority. 

From there I moved to South Korea to teach in an International School on the beautiful island of Jeju, where I fell into the role of Housemistress and fell in love with how rewarding I found building relationships rather than delivering subject specific knowledge. This change of direction is what led me to my role here as Dean of Baxter where I have the pleasure of creating a College culture which is inclusive and engaging. 

 

How do you spend your free time?

My free time is spent doing things I love - reading science fiction/fantasy; attending dance classes; baking cakes and doing circus.

My favourite place to travel in the world is…

Scotland! As clichéd as it sounds there really is nowhere like home, and after being away for the duration of the pandemic I can't wait to be able to travel back to see my family. Besides, it's a beautiful country with amazing mountains, cities, castles, and beaches (once you get over the cold weather) and well worth a visit!

My hidden talent is?

I don't know if I can count it as a talent (as I'm not very good at it) but I do flying trapeze and it is such a thrill!  

Interesting fact about me

I have performed in the closing ceremonies of two Commonwealth Games - Delhi in 2010 and Glasgow in 2014.

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.

 

Nic Curry

     Nicholas Curry

 

Resident and Student Fellows

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.

A Student Fellows (SF) is assigned every year in Baxter 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.

Baxter RF SF