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University Appoints DVC (Academic)

Tuesday, 22 November 2005

An internationally recognised scholar who has extensive experience in academic development and university governance has been appointed to the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at the University of Newcastle.

Professor Kevin McConkey will join the University of Newcastle as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) in February 2006. Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders says he is delighted to announce the appointment.

“Professor McConkey is an outstanding academic who will bring a wealth of experience to the University and its senior management team,” says Professor Saunders.

“The role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) is crucial to the future development of academic programs at Newcastle. Professor McConkey’s leadership skills and his background as a highly successful teacher and researcher will provide great strength to the University.”

Professor McConkey is currently Professor of Psychology at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). Prior to this he held the position of President of the Academic Board at UNSW for five years.

A distinguished scholar in the field of psychology, Professor McConkey completed a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology and a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology at the University of Queensland.

With 25 years experience in teaching and research across Canada, America and Australia, Professor McConkey is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Social Sciences, the American Psychological Association, the Australian Psychological Society and the Australian Society of Hypnosis.

He is the author of an extensive range of books, book chapters, journal articles and conference presentations and the recent winner of the prestigious Bernard Raginski Award for leadership and achievement in clinical and experimental hypnosis.

Whilst President of the Academic Board at UNSW he was a University Council member and member of various University Council and Academic Board committees; a member of the Senior Management Group and Vice-Chancellor's Advisory Committee; and a member of committees external to the University including the NSW Board of Studies, the NSW Vocational Education and Training Advisory Committee; and was Chair of the Committee of Chairs of Academic Boards/Senates in NSW and the ACT from 2001 - 2004.

For interviews contact Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Nick Saunders on (02) 4921 5101.

An electronic image of Professor McConkey is available from the Media Unit on (02) 4921 5351.