December 8, 2023

University of Wollongong elects new Chancellor

Michael Still will replace outgoing Chancellor Christine McLoughlin, AM

Respected business leader Michael Still will become the University of Wollongong’s (UOW) fifth Chancellor following his election by the University Council today.

Mr Still brings a wealth of experience to the role following a 30-year career leading public, private and not-for-profit organisations across a range of industries, including health, infrastructure and finance.

Throughout his career he has worked closely with universities to advance their research and commercialisation endeavours and previously served on the NSW Government’s Medical Devices Fund, supporting investments in medical innovations and start-ups.

Mr Still has been heavily involved in the health care sector, notably as Chairman of the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Chairman of the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct and as a board member of the Cancer Institute of NSW.

“It is a tremendous honour to be given the opportunity to serve as Chancellor of the University of Wollongong,” Mr Still said.

“Universities play a critical role in our society, not only for their teaching, learning and research capabilities, but as anchor institutions in the community, delivering enormous economic and social benefit.”

“UOW is one of Australia’s leading universities and I look forward to immersing myself in the community to learn more about the work being done here, as we await the final report from the Federal Government’s Universities Accord.”

Outgoing Chancellor Christine McLoughlin AM said she looks forward to working closely with Mr Still to ensure a smooth transition.

“It has been an immense privilege to serve as UOW Chancellor. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve been able to achieve during an extremely challenging few years and UOW now has a strong and resilient platform to enable us to embrace the anticipated changes in both the education sector and our communities more generally,” Ms McLoughlin said.

“After working our way through the global pandemic, we have charted a strong path forward in an increasingly complex and competitive higher education sector. Additionally, we continue to reinvigorate our campuses for our students and world-leading academics, and continue to perform well in university rankings, driven by our strength in delivering equity and access outcomes.

“I would like to thank Deputy Chancellors Rob Ryan and Warwick Shanks, our Vice-Chancellor Patricia Davidson and University of NSW Chancellor David Gonski AC, for their diligence and commitment in conducting the robust Chancellor selection process on behalf of the University Council.”

Vice-Chancellor Professor Patricia M. Davidson thanked Chancellor McLoughlin for her support and guidance and for enabling a smooth transition as the University prepares to celebrate a major milestone.

“Chancellor McLoughlin’s stewardship of the University Council has been critical throughout arguably the most challenging period in UOW’s history,” Professor Davidson said.

“As we emerge from the shadow of the pandemic and prepare for the release of the Universities Accord, and with our 50^th anniversary on the horizon in 2025, we have so much to look forward to.

“On behalf of the University community, I would like to thank Chancellor McLoughlin for her service to UOW, and welcome our new Chancellor ahead of what will be a big 2024.”

Mr Still will commence in the role next week. An installation event will be held to welcome the new Chancellor early next year.  

_{UOW Chancellor-elect Michael Still, current Chancellor Christine McLoughlin and Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Patricia M. Davidson.}