April 19, 2024

UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Patricia Davidson to step down from her role 

The first alumna to hold the position, Professor Davidson has championed UOW's outstanding equity and access agenda, elevated the student voice and uplifted research output

University of Wollongong (UOW) Vice-Chancellor and President Patricia M. Davidson has announced today that she will step down from her role following more than three years in the role. 

After being appointed amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Davidson has guided the University through arguably the most tumultuous period in its history, financially and tactically, and now is the right time for new leadership as we embrace the recommendations of the Accord. 

“With a new strategic plan being developed and our 50th anniversary just around the corner, now is the right time to pass the baton to the University’s sixth Vice-Chancellor and President,” Professor Davidson said. 

Professor Davidson is the first UOW alumna to hold the position. Throughout her tenure, the Vice-Chancellor worked tirelessly to embed the student experience across the University with the creation of the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic and Student Life and elevated the student voice through our Students as Trusted Partners framework.  

She has championed UOW’s outstanding equity and access agenda, which is driving increased participation and attainment rates for students from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education. UOW 2024 graduations see an increase in our First Nations Students and the later this year UOW will host the Indigenous National Games.  

“Uplifting research output and fostering the next generation of brilliant academics has been another strong focus of mine, and I’m optimistic about the future of our research capabilities with so many talented and bright minds calling UOW home. I am so excited about our increasing research output, philanthropic income, and rise in rankings not just for globally recognised research but teaching,” she said.  

Commenting on her future plans, Professor Davidson said, “I am looking forward to contributing to my alma mater as a committed alumna and celebrating our 50th Birthday and I am excited to have more time to continue my research in the care of people living with chronic and complex conditions and advocacy for global health.”