The University of Queensland’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Hay AC, today announced that Professor Alan Rix has been appointed as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Ipswich campus.
“Professor Rix, currently the Executive Dean of UQ’s Faculty of Arts, has a long association with UQ and has made a significant contribution to the development and life of the University over the past 19 years,” Professor Hay said.
“He has a demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching and research and working with the wider community and will, I’m sure, continue and enhance the outstanding work that is already the hallmark of the Ipswich campus.”
Professor Rix, who will work from the Ipswich campus, will take up the appointment on September 1.
The Professor’s association with UQ began in 1985, when he took a position as Professor of Japanese Studies. He became head of the Department of Japanese and Chinese Studies in 1986, was the Pro Vice-Chancellor for External Affairs from 1994, and was appointed Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts in 1997.
Throughout his time as Executive Dean, Professor Rix has focused on excellence in teaching and research, and engagement with the Faculty’s community relations. His achievements include building the research and commercialisation activities of the Faculty, establishing new research centres, and overseeing the development of the acclaimed James and Mary Emelia Mayne Centre at the St Lucia campus.
“I was attracted to the Pro Vice-Chancellor’s position by the challenge of guiding the Ipswich campus as it develops rapidly over the coming years,” Professor Rix said.
“I want to build on the strengths that Ipswich already has developed, including its focus on community engagement, offering unique degree courses and its connections with local schools and other education providers.
“My priorities include doubling the number of students in the next five years, continuing the capital development program, and building the research and research training profile of the campus.
“It’s tremendously exciting to be involved with a community that is experiencing rapid growth and change, economically and socially. I look forward to a continuing close relationship with the Ipswich community.”
Professor Hay also paid tribute to the absolutely outstanding work of Professor Trevor Grigg, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International and Development), who has overseen the development of the Ipswich campus to date.
“Professor Grigg’s commitment has ensured that UQ Ipswich has already set high standards in teaching, learning and research, as well as becoming an important contributor to the Ipswich community,” Professor Hay said.
Media: for more information, contact Professor Alan Rix 3365 1822. (High resolution images of Professor Alan Rix are available here.)
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