Farewell from the Chancellor

Wednesday, 18 October 2023

University Chancellor, Mr Paul Jeans, will retire at the end of the year following more than 10 years at the helm of our University Council.

He shares his reflections on the generosity of our community:

Philanthropy is incredibly important to our University. It has been gratifying to see philanthropic support more than quadruple in the past decade, driven not only by some very large gifts but also by a significant increase in the number of philanthropic supporters including many generous staff and alumni.

Equity has always been at the core of our University’s ethos. Through scholarships and long-standing pathway programs we have been able to help many thousands of students attain their full potential. In fact, our Open Foundation program will celebrate 50 years next year – it’s Australia’s largest and oldest University pathway program and continues to change lives. One of my greatest pleasures over the past decade has been to hear these students speak at graduation ceremonies, sharing their incredible journeys to become major contributors to society.

Philanthropy allows fundamental research to be undertaken on some of our greatest challenges, often kickstarting important work that is difficult to fund through other sources. It also provides the continuity of support to ensure research delivers maximum community impact.

Smiling man in the camera's focus, talking to three other people standing around him

Of course, philanthropy is often a very personal decision, as it is with my own family. A way to show appreciation for what the University has done and promises to do in the future; to remember a loved one in a way that benefits others; to improve the prospects for our regions. It speaks to who you are.

I have been privileged to be Chancellor for over a decade and it is now time for a change. I’ll continue as Chair of the Australian Genomic Cancer Medicine Centre (Omico) and may well become involved in other activities. I’ll certainly catch a few more fish.

Thank you for your support over the past decade. I carry with me a deep appreciation for the life-changing advances and community impact your generosity has helped to achieve.

Signature

Mr Paul Jeans
Chancellor, The University of Newcastle

Man in ceremonial graduation robes, smiling in a large and dark brick building

If you would like to find a project to support that aligns with your values, please contact Kate on 02 4921 8612, email philanthropy@newcastle.edu.au or go to newcastle.edu.au/donate

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