Cumberland College staple and former head, Nick Bates is taking temporary leave to act as interim Head of Student Experience for the University of Otago. This came as quite a shock to both current and past residents. One resident said, “I’m devastated aye,” and that mentality was felt college-wide.
Bates is regarded as an icon within Cumby and is beloved for his hats, selfies, and fantastic formal dinner speeches/songs. He will be returning in March of 2019, but in the meantime will be sorely missed.
Various college students who spoke to Critic described him as an “absolute legend”, “a fucking champ” and said “his warm disposition and smile truly light up the gloomy Dunedin days”. It’s unclear whether they actually felt this way or were just trying to suck up in order to escape alcohol fines.
In Nick’s absence, Cumberland will be run by Rosemary Tarbotton. Rosemary is currently also head of Te Rangi Hiroa, just down the road. She called Cumby home as senior tutor for nearly seven years and is looking forward to returning.