newy.com.au – University of Newcastle vice chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky will retire in February 2027 after more than eight years leading the institution.
Chancellor Patricia Forsythe announced his retirement to staff and students on Wednesday, 7 October. She said the university council would soon begin the formal process to appoint his successor, while Professor Zelinsky would remain in the role until February.
Professor Zelinsky became the university’s eighth vice chancellor and president in November 2018.
“It has been an enormous honour to lead the University of Newcastle and the communities we serve,” Professor Zelinsky said.
Chancellor Forsythe highlighted changes to undergraduate study and the university’s work in widening access to higher education.
“Under Professor Zelinsky’s leadership, the University has introduced work placement opportunities across all undergraduate degree programs, strengthening graduate employability, and has continued to build on the long legacy of being a national leader in educational equity and Indigenous education pathways,” she said.
The university also cited Professor Zelinsky’s role in developing industry collaboration, including through the $280 million Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy program, aimed at supporting the Hunter’s transition to clean energy. Its innovation network supporting startups and the commercialisation of university research also expanded during his tenure.
Facilities opened during his leadership include Q Building in Newcastle’s city centre and university facilities at Gosford Central and Gosford Hospital. The university has also expanded its Singapore operations.
The university said new student accommodation projects in the Newcastle and Gosford city centres and at the Callaghan campus were underway.
