September 30, 2020

University of Wollongong farewells Chancellor Jillian Broadbent

Retiring Chancellor oversaw expansion of university’s research, teaching and learning, and global footprint

Chancellor Jillian Broadbent AC said she was proud to be handing over the reins of Chancellor, as she steps down today (Wednesday 30 September) from the role she has held since 2009.

Ms Broadbent, who was Chancellor for 11 years, will be succeeded by Ms Christine McLoughlin FAICD as the University’s fourth Chancellor.

During her time at UOW, where she served as both Chancellor and Chair of the University Council, Ms Broadbent oversaw the expansion of the University’s global footprint and research impact, and strengthened ties to the worlds of business and arts.

Her immense contribution to the University was recognised last week (Wednesday 23 September), when the new Social Sciences and The Arts building was unveiled at UOW’s Wollongong campus and dedicated the Jillian Broadbent Building. 

As one of Australia’s most successful and respected businesswomen, Ms Broadbent’s illustrious career has spanned business, finance, and the arts. Her contributions have been recognised at a national level; in 2003, she was made an Office of the Order of Australia, followed by a Companion to the Order of Australia (AC) last year. She was also named Qantas/Bulletin Businesswoman of the Year in 1987.

Ms Broadbent became UOW’s third Chancellor on 1 October 2009, following the Foundation Chancellor, the late Justice Robert Hope, who served from 1975 to 1997, and Michael Codd AC, who served from 1997 to 2009.

As Chancellor, Ms Broadbent has guided a number of innovative projects that have seen the University enhance its reputation on a national and international stage, including the establishment of UOW campuses in Hong Kong and Malaysia; the Sustainable Buildings Research Centre; Early Start; the SMART Infrastructure Facility; the Global Challenges Program; iAccelerate; Molecular Horizons; and the partnership between the University and the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation.

In addition, she was admitted as a Fellow of the University of Wollongong Dubai in 2019, for her outstanding contribution to the University on a global level.

^{Artist Ben Quilty, Chancellor Jillian Broadbent, and NSW Governor Margaret Beazley at the opening of the Social Sciences and The Arts Building. They are pictured with the portrait of Ms Broadbent created by Mr Quilty. Photo: Paul Jones}

Ms Broadbent said she was proud of all that UOW has achieved, both in research and learning and teaching, during her tenure.

It is clear that some of the highlights of her time at UOW have been witnessing the accomplishments of the University’s students and alumni. Ms Broadbent said one of her proudest moments was seeing Team UOW’s Illawarra Flame House win the Solar Decathlon in China in 2013, followed by Team UOW’s Desert Rose House take second place in 2018 in Dubai. 

She also points to being on the panel for the Robert Hope Medal, UOW’s top student prize awarded to an individual who shows both academic aptitude and community spirit, as one of the best parts of her role.

“I am constantly surprised and delighted by the achievements of our academics and graduates,” Ms Broadbent said.

“Seeing the candidates for the Robert Hope Medal has always been so uplifting, to see the impact that young people are making. It is amazing what they can do if they want to achieve.

“We have such a strong reputation in teaching and learning, and quality research. The higher education environment is changing, but it is a matter of staying the course and continuing to build on the great work that is underway.

“I am so proud of what the University has accomplished in the past 11 years. I have every confidence Ms McLoughlin will continue the work of guiding this great institution towards an exciting future.”

UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Wellings CBE thanked Ms Broadbent for her outstanding contribution to the University and said it had been a pleasure to work alongside her for close to a decade.

“Chancellor Broadbent has led the University Council with great strength and sound judgement, provided wise counsel and support, and has performed her ceremonial duties with grace, charm, and warmth,” Professor Wellings said.

“Under her leadership and guidance, the University has expanded its global research impact, deepened its ties to the worlds of arts and humanities, and strengthened its reputation for providing a positive student experience that produces career-ready graduates.

“I, along with the whole UOW community, owe Chancellor Broadbent a debt of gratitude for her commitment, dedication and leadership throughout her term. I wish her all the very best and thank her for the immense contribution to the University.”