Retirement: Lynda Ali

Shelagh Green reflects on Lynda Ali’s contribution to the University.

Lynda Ali retired from the University’s Careers Service at the end of 2008.

Leading the Service as Director from 2001 to 2008 was the culmination of a highly successful career at the University.

Joining in the early 1970s, Lynda provided support to students from all faculties across the University.

Following a career break to concentrate her energies on her three young children, she returned to the Service in the mid-1980s.

She became a Senior Careers Adviser, leading the team that supported the faculties of Arts, Divinity and Music.

Her commitment to supporting the needs of students and staff was evident to all who worked with her.

Lynda didn’t limit her energies to the University, however.

She was hugely influential in the development of professional standards and training within the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS).

Lynda has a global reputation within the profession.

This stems from her part in developing the Ali-Graham Model with Barbara Graham (the current Director at Strathclyde) in their book “The Counselling Approach to Careers Guidance”.

In 2000 the pair published “Moving On in Your Career - A Guide for Academic Researchers and Postgraduates”.

Lynda’s earlier career break involved a great deal of childcare, and the arrival at Christmas of her first grandchild will ensure she’s not stuck for things to do!

While the Careers Service will miss Lynda’s enthusiasm, insightfulness and professional experience, we know she’s left it in great shape for the future.

Notes

Shelagh Green is Director of the University of Edinburgh Careers Service.