University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Jan Thomas will leave the University in December 2016 to take up a new position as head of Massey University in New Zealand.
Chancellor Mr John Dornbusch said he announced Professor Thomas’s resignation with sadness, but also with optimism about the future of the University. “Since her appointment in 2012, Jan has made an indelible mark on our University,†he said.
“She has developed a long-term view for our future which now shapes our strategic discussions. She has focused on improving our teaching and learning performance and the quality of our programs and research degrees. Professor Thomas has overseen a raft of changes which have enhanced the University’s reputation both nationally and internationally.”
“She has overseen a major increase in our research performance and more importantly nurtured deeper appreciation of the characteristics of international-standard research practice and performance. Her passion for excellence is matched by a deep commitment to equity and social justice and a determination to improve access to university studies to those who might not have the opportunity to go on to post school education.”
“I am delighted to have had the opportunity to work with Jan since I became Chancellor in 2014. She leaves our University in great shape and I wish her the very best for the future.â€
Mr Dornbusch said USQ is now one of Australia’s leading universities with the highest graduate employability in the nation and one of the highest graduate starting salaries.
“The search for a new Vice-Chancellor will begin soon, and experience shows us that the good work of a departing Vice-Chancellor allows us to attract a new one with the skills to take USQ to the next level of performance. I look forward to a bright future for this great institution,†he said.
“I know the whole University community, both locally and around the world, will join me in thanking Jan for her service and wishing her success in her future endeavours.â€
