The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) is announcing the retirement of Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie after a distinguished career in higher education.
Professor Mackenzie’s appointment as UniSQ Vice-Chancellor in 2017 and reappointment in 2021 followed senior leadership positions at various other universities.
She guided UniSQ to its position firmly entrenched in the world’s top 400 universities with leading research and graduate outcomes.
Chancellor John Dornbusch praised Professor Mackenzie’s leadership, which spanned a significant era of growth for the University.
“Professor Mackenzie has led the University to deliver a number of key achievements, particularly the acceleration of our research performance, including the $180 million iLAuNCH Trailblazer program, the launch of a new flexible academic calendar, and a suite of high-demand allied health programs,” he said.
“She has championed external stakeholder relationships and enabled the University to have renewed relationships with government and industry.
“On behalf of Council, I thank Professor Mackenzie for her service to the University of Southern Queensland.”
Reflecting on her time at the University, Professor Mackenzie said it was a privilege to lead such a dedicated community.
“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, particularly in strengthening UniSQ’s research and academic offerings, which have positioned us as a leader in key areas like allied health and space innovation,” she said.
“Research in our key flagship areas of space and defence, agriculture, health, and regional development has a significant impact across the world, while our graduates earn the highest median starting salary in the country.
“Guiding UniSQ through the pandemic was a true test of resilience and I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and the broader University community.
The University of Southern Queensland is a special place, and I look forward to watching it thrive in the years ahead.”
The University Council has appointed Provost, Professor Karen Nelson as Acting Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Mackenzie's final act as Vice-Chancellor was to host the graduation ceremony and associated function on Wednesday 30 October in Toowoomba.
