Message to UQ community from Chancellor

I am writing to advise what actions the University has taken in relation to an irregularity in the admission process of a UQ student.

The matter was brought to my attention in September 2011 and I immediately initiated an independent external investigation by a Senior Counsel.

The investigation confirmed an irregularity had occurred in the admission process for a student, but there was no finding of misconduct with respect to any individual. Further, the investigation found no suggestions of wrong-doing on the part of the student, whose identity is protected under privacy provisions.

Professor Greenfield, as Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Keniger, as Acting Vice-Chancellor at the time, each accepted, by virtue of their positions, that they had ultimate responsibility and accountability for the irregularity and each offered his resignation.

The 22-member University Senate, comprising independent members of the community, plus staff, students and alumni representatives, accepted their resignations.

I am deeply saddened by this matter, which should not have occurred, and I acknowledge that it has caused concern to our UQ community. We have taken all necessary steps to preserve the integrity of the University’s practices and are committed to providing fair and just opportunities to students and staff alike.

In addition, the University has undertaken a thorough and extensive review of student admission processes across the University. As a result of this review, some changes to tighten relevant rules and processes have been recommended and will go to the Senate’s Legislative Committee before being considered by the December 8 Senate meeting for approval.

I wish to stress that nothing in this matter should be seen as detracting from the huge and enduring contributions that Professor Greenfield and Professor Keniger have made to the University and the broader community. They have each dedicated more than 30 years of their careers as teachers, researchers and administrators at UQ, and have each made outstanding contributions to their communities and professions.

To facilitate an orderly transition in the University’s best interests, Professor Greenfield will step down in mid-2012 to enable a new Vice-Chancellor to be recruited. Professor Keniger will step down as Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor in December 2011. As part of this process, the University has commenced an international search for a new Vice-Chancellor.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Deborah Terry, will take over as acting Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor from 1 January 2012. Please be reassured that it is very much business as usual.

It has been a full year for the University, starting with the Brisbane floods and continuing with tremendous international successes in international rankings and outstanding staff, student and alumni achievements.

I would like to reassure you that The University of Queensland remains in capable hands and we will continue to strive for the highest standards for which we are internationally renowned.

The University of Queensland is a robust institution with 101 years history and outstanding strength and depth in its staff, students and alumni. I have every confidence that with your support, UQ’s performance and reputation will continue to grow.

Yours sincerely,
John Story
Chancellor of The University of Queensland