Professor Neil McMeniman was appointed Head of the UQ Veterinary School by The University of Queensland Senate at its meeting late last week.
Professor John Hay said Professor McMeniman had an outstanding reputation and would provide clear and strong leadership for the School as it prepared for routine accreditation review late in 2002.
Professor McMeniman, BVSc MVSc Qld., PhD Newcastle (UK), who has been acting Head of the School since the retirement of former Head Professor Keith Hughes last year, would lead the School until 31 December 2004. A graduate of UQ, Professor McMeniman also became Professor of Livestock Nutrition.
Two other professorial offers are currently being made.
'This appointment means the School is well positioned to complete the restructuring process currently being finalised in its parent Faculty, the Faculty of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Veterinary Science (NRAVS),' Professor Hay said.
The University recently received formal advice from national accrediting body the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council that the school's accreditation schedule would proceed as normal, given the University's commitment to retaining and enhancing undergraduate training of veterinary students to the levels expected by the AVDC Inc. and to increasing veterinary research, particularly in the application of new technology to lessen the impact of animal diseases.
Professor Hay said the current restructuring process in NRAVS was nearing completion and once it had been finalised, he would convene a forum to ensure students, staff and donors that a well-planned and enhanced future for the Veterinary School was assured.
The University recently consolidated most of its large animal teaching on the Gatton campus as part of the restructuring. The UQ Senate retains its continuing policy that the Pinjarra Hills site is not for sale.
Professor Hay said he hoped the issues that had surrounded the School in recent weeks would now abate and that supporters could turn their attentions to promoting the School and seeking external funding for its vital activities.
Media: For further information, contact Peter McCutcheon, UQ Communications, 07 3365 1088 or 0413 380 012.
.jpg)
