Griffith graduate named new University Vice Chancellor

Today, Griffith University Chancellor the Hon. Andrew Fraser announced the appointment of Professor Jessica Vanderlelie as its next Vice Chancellor and President.

Mr Fraser said the appointment marked the first time a graduate of the University would serve as Vice Chancellor.

“Professor Vanderlelie is an outstanding educational leader and is passionate about the opportunity for education to make a difference.

“Her commitment to students — particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds — has defined her career,” he said.

Professor Vanderlelie grew up on the Gold Coast, completed undergraduate and postgraduate study at Griffith, and began her academic career teaching biochemistry at the Gold Coast campus.

Professor Vanderlelie was the inaugural recipient of the Vice Chancellor’s Teacher of the Year Award and, in 2016, the inaugural Innovative Research Universities Vice Chancellors’ Fellow. She has since held senior leadership roles at La Trobe University and Deakin University, including Deputy Vice Chancellor appointments at both Victorian institutions.

She is an Australian Learning and Teaching Fellow and a recipient of the Australian Award for University Teaching.

She is a former Deputy Chair of the Universities Australia Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Committee and was the Universities Australia nominee to the Board of Education Services Australia.

Her work has spanned gender-based violence prevention, Indigenous participation, equity and inclusion, student success and digital transformation. She has also contributed to national discussion on the social licence of universities and the future of education in the age of artificial intelligence.

Mr Fraser said Griffith University’s Council had sought a leader with the vision and energy to accelerate the University’s existing strategy.

“Professor Vanderlelie is fully committed to our Strategic Plan and the vision launched earlier this year,” Mr Fraser said.

“This appointment does not signal a change in direction. It signals the energy required to deliver on our strategy in a way that focuses on students.”

Professor Vanderlelie said her connection to the University began three decades ago.

“From the first day I stepped onto the Gold Coast campus 30 years ago, it felt like home. You could feel being part of a genuine community.

Professor Vanderlelie said she was looking forward to listening to students and stakeholders and working with the University’s many communities.

“I’m energised by the Griffith we are today and excited for a future where people belong, where they are trusted to be ambitious, where diverse voices help us see problems differently, and where ideas create opportunity.”

Professor Vanderlelie will begin her role on 16 November 2026.