The University of Melbourne Council has appointed Emeritus Professor Glyn Davis AC as Interim Vice-Chancellor, following the tragic passing of Vice-Chancellor Professor Emma Johnston AO.
Professor Davis begins on 2 February and will serve in the role while the University undertakes an extensive search for the next permanent Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Davis served as the University of Melbourne’s 19th Vice-Chancellor, from 2005-2018. During this time, he made an extraordinary contribution to the University, including the introduction of the Melbourne Curriculum. Among other roles since then, Professor Davis has served as Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet in Canberra and chair of Opera Australia.
University of Melbourne Chancellor Jane Hansen AO thanked Professor Davis for his willingness to once again serve the University in this vital leadership role and support our community at this time of need.
“In making this appointment, the University Council’s focus was on ensuring leadership, stability and confidence as we work toward realisation of the strategic goals outlined in the approved Strategy 2030,” Ms Hansen said.
“Professor Davis, with his unique knowledge and experience of the University of Melbourne, and broader higher education sector, is perfectly placed to lead the University into Semester One and begin implementation of the strategy.”
Professor Davis said Professor Johnston’s aspirations for the University of Melbourne were expressed in Strategy 2030, promoting exceptional education, transformational research and a resilient university.
“I am humbled to be invited and appreciate the importance of continuity and stability at a challenging moment,” Professor Davis said.
“I look forward to meeting the many staff and students who have joined the University in more recent years. Together we will honour the legacy of Professor Emma Johnston and continue the work to make the University of Melbourne a world-leading and globally connected Australian university.”
In keeping with arrangements already in place, Professor Michael Wesley and Professor Jane Gunn will each serve as Acting Vice-Chancellor until Professor Davis starts on 2 February.
