Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky to retire in February 2027
The University of Newcastle has today announced their Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, will retire in February 2027.
Chancellor Patricia Forsythe AM made the announcement to staff and students this morning, acknowledging Professor Zelinsky's outstanding contribution and leadership.
“It has been a privilege to work with Vice-Chancellor Zelinsky – someone completely committed to students, staff and the communities we serve,” Chancellor Forsythe said.
“Professor Zelinsky has led the University with vision, energy and a steadfast commitment to excellence and we are forever grateful for his exceptional service.”
Professor Zelinsky commenced as the University of Newcastle’s eighth Vice-Chancellor and President on 19 November 2018 and said it had been a privilege to lead the University through a period of significant transformation, growth and achievement.
“Under Professor Zelinsky’s leadership, the University has introduced work placement opportunities across all undergraduate degree programs, strengthening graduate employability, and has continued to build on the long legacy of being a national leader in educational equity and Indigenous education pathways,” Patricia Forsythe said.
Professor Zelinsky has led major efforts to boost innovation and industry collaboration across the region, including through the $280m Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TRaCE) program helping the Hunter’s transition to clean energy future, as well as the growth of the i2N (Integrated Innovation Network) program – a national leader in the commercialisation of university IP and support for startups and spinoffs.
“It has been an enormous honour to lead the University of Newcastle and the communities we serve,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“Today we teach more than 39,000 students and have more than 209,000 alumni across the globe. We continue to welcome people from every walk of life to learn and grow and achieve their dreams.”
“Leading the outstanding staff who deliver that kind of impact to people’s lives is both humbling and an enormous privilege.”
During his tenure, Professor Zelinsky has been at the helm of the University’s investment into its communities, including through the opening of the major facilities at Gosford Central, Gosford Hospital and Q Building in the heart of Newcastle CBD, as well as expanding the University’s Singapore operations. New student accommodation buildings in Newcastle CBD, Gosford CBD and the Callaghan campus are also underway to further attract and support students.
Chief Commissioner of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC), Professor Barney Glover, commended Vice-Chancellor Zelinsky on his achievements at the University of Newcastle.
“The University of Newcastle has made remarkable progress in recent years in the challenging circumstances facing higher education in Australia,” Professor Glover said.
“It is a world-class research-intensive regional university meeting the needs of a very diverse region and, in particular, providing educational pathways for equity and First Nations students. Professor Zelinsky is to be commended for this success and for his broader leadership across the sector,” Professor Glover said.
“There is still much to achieve over the coming months, and I look forward to working with our students, staff, alumni, partners and supporters as we continue to build on the University’s strong foundations,” Professor Zelinsky said.
Patricia Forsythe said the University’s Council would soon begin the formal process to appoint the University’s next Vice-Chancellor and President. Professor Zelinsky will continue in his role until February, ensuring continuity of leadership and delivery of the University’s strategic priorities.
Contact
- Lou Morrissey
- Email: lou.morrissey@newcastle.edu.au
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.