Emeritus Brian Wilson AO
The University of Queensland today pays tribute to the life and legacy of its longest-serving Vice-Chancellor, Emeritus Professor Brian Wilson AO. Emeritus Professor Wilson, who died peacefully at home in France after 23 years of retirement, led UQ from 1979 until 1995. UQ Chancellor Peter Varghese AO said Emeritus Professor Wilson helped transform UQ from a good regional university to one of national and international standing. "Brian Wilson was a great reformer and visionary who led and defended the Australian university system during a period of unprecedented change brought about by the Dawkins reforms," Mr Varghese said. "He responded to this period of deregulation, amalgamation, the reintroduction of student fees and increasing student numbers by taking decisive actions that positioned the University to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. "Among these reforms were a more streamlined academic structure, greater recognition for teaching excellence, incentives for research and postgraduate study, and a new tutorial assistance scheme to provide post-graduates with an income in return for undergraduate tutoring." "Appalled at what we now see as sexist language and behaviour, he personally created and led a committee dedicated to changing the culture and increasing career opportunities for women." Mr Varghese said Brian Wilson earned a reputation for decisiveness, a seemingly unflagging drive and energy, and willingness to take initiative and responsibility. "Brian was fond of telling people that, when asked at his job interview what he saw as the ideal number for a committee, he replied 'one'." Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Aidan Byrne also paid tribute to Emeritus Professor Wilson.
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