October 25, 2024

A 'pillar of leadership, wisdom and dedication’

Former Deputy Chancellor Robert Ryan lauded for his extensive years of service and his profound impact on UOW and the local community

The University of Wollongong (UOW) farewelled outgoing Deputy Chancellor Robert Ryan at an event on the Wollongong campus on Monday 21 October.

In his welcoming address to guests, UOW Chancellor Michael Still thanked Mr Ryan for his years of exceptional service and described him as a “pillar of leadership, wisdom and dedication”.

“Robert’s contributions to the University of Wollongong have been nothing short of extraordinary. From serving numerous roles on the University Council to his appointment as Deputy Chancellor in 2018, Robert has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our University’s growth and success,” Mr Still said. 

“His leadership has been pivotal in numerous initiatives that have transformed UOW. Robert spearheaded the generous contribution from IMB Bank towards our flagship Early Start Discovery Space, a project that continues to inspire young minds and foster early learning.

“His strategic insight and careful stewardship have been instrumental in navigating the complex landscape of higher education, always with the best interests of our students and staff at heart.

“Perhaps most memorably for many of us, Rob has presided over countless graduation ceremonies, conferring degrees upon thousands of students. In doing so, he has not only celebrated their academic achievements but also imparted the values and ethos that define a UOW graduate.”

In recognition of Mr Ryan’s extensive years of service and the profound impact he has had on UOW and the local community, Mr Still announced that the University will be conferring an Honorary Doctorate upon him.

“This highest honour reflects our deep appreciation for your contributions and the lasting legacy you leave behind,” Mr Still said. 

Mr Ryan said it had been an honour to be Deputy Chancellor of the University and he expressed his gratitude to the University Council and committee members for their support and guidance. 

“It has been a genuine privilege to preside over numerous graduations, both here and in Hong Kong. Witnessing the enthusiasm of the students and their families as they advance to the next stage in their career or study is an experience that I will cherish forever,” he said.

“UOW has come a long way since its humble beginnings from a satellite campus of the University of NSW. It has blossomed into a vibrant and dynamic institution, recognised globally for excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement.

“As we reflect on the University of Wollongong’s remarkable journey over the past 50 years, I am sure we are all filled with a profound sense of pride in what has been achieved here and overseas, resulting in a regionally based global university.  It is exciting to see the Council embark on the new strategy plan to kick off the next 50 years, ensuring that that UOW remains a global leader in research, education and innovation.”

Looking to the future, Mr Ryan spoke of the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for UOW. The challenges he highlighted included financial sustainability, global competition, and maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing world and adapting to meet the evolving needs of our students and society.

The key opportunities he saw for UOW were to build on our strengths in academic and research excellence, to engage with our communities to address regional challenges and contribute to economic development, to embrace innovation and develop new ideas and solutions that benefit society, 

“I am confident that the University of Wollongong is well-positioned to meet these challenges and seize these opportunities. We have a talented and dedicated community of staff, students, and alumni who are committed to our success,” Mr Ryan said.

“As I step down from my role as Deputy Chancellor, I am filled with optimism for the future of the University of Wollongong. I am confident that this institution will continue to thrive and make a significant contribution for many years to come.”

Mr Ryan was appointed to the University Council in 2010 and to the role of Deputy Chancellor in 2018, and also served as Chair of a number of different Council Committees.

He brought extensive experience in finance and management at senior executive and board level to his roles on Council. He is currently Chief Executive of IMB and a director of IMB Financial Planning, Australian Settlements, the Illawarra Regional Information Service and the Flagstaff Group.

He is continuing his commitment to the University by serving on the UOW Global Enterprises Board of Directors.