LOCAL grazier and businessman James Harris’s association with the University of New England goes back several generations, so it seems only appropriate he’s been appointed its new chancellor.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Harris’s appointment was announced yesterday by vice-chancellor Professor Annabelle Duncan, who said his “vision, knowledge and understanding” of the higher education sector would serve him well “in an increasingly competitive, complex and changing environment”.
Mr Harris has served on the UNE Council since 1994 and filled the role of deputy chancellor from 2001 to 2007.
He is also the great-grandson of Thomas Richmond Forster, who donated the land and homestead from which the University of New England was established.
Mr Harris said he was honoured to have been selected.
“My involvement with UNE spans two decades and in that time I have seen it grow and prosper,” he said.
“The university is an integral part of the fabric of the New England and plays an important role in providing education to people in regional areas.
“I am proud to be part of the UNE community and I am passionate about ensuring this university remains competitive and innovative, and I look forward to working with Professor Duncan in shaping its strategic direction.”
Mr Harris is UNE’s ninth chancellor and replaces former NSW government minister and deputy premier John Watkins, who stood down from the role in June.
In another appointment announced yesterday, Jan McClelland becomes the university council’s deputy chancellor.
