
UNIVERSITY of New England vice-chancellor Annabelle Duncan has told the university council she will not renew her contract today.
The institution leader will finish her five-and-a-half year reign in August next year.
“It has been a privilege to lead the University during this time of upheaval and opportunity in education,” Ms Duncan said.
“Technology is fundamentally changing the way we teach and learn.
“At the same time higher education policy in Australia is unsettled.
“UNE sees the changes as opportunities and I am confident that it will continue to adapt and prosper in this environment.”
Chancellor James Harris said Ms Duncan was originally tasked with improving the university’s research standing.
“And she did that, in 2014 the University Council chose her to lead the university,” he said.
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“Annabelle’s strategic plan recognised the important place UNE has in the Australian community, the need to build on its strengths, and the need to transform in some areas to remain a market leader in online education.
"She has shown vison and courage in implementing this plan.”
UNE will shortly begin a recruitment process to find its next vice-chancellor, with the successful candidate expected to start when Professor Duncan completes her term next year.
“I am grateful to the students and staff at UNE who make this university such a special place. I have enjoyed my time at UNE," Ms Duncan said.
“I am looking forward to my next adventure, continuing to promote regional Australia.”