WSU appoints Michelle Trudgett to a new Indigenous leadership role

WSU has appointed Michelle Trudgett as deputy vice-chancellor, Indigenous leadership, part of its commitment to Indigenous voice and agency.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Western Sydney University's first deputy vice-chancellor, Indigenous leadership.

The centrality of the Indigenous voice in the scholarly and educational world and beyond it has been affirmed with Western Sydney University’s promotion of its former pro vice-chancellor, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, strategy and consultation, Michelle Trudgett, to the role of inaugural deputy vice-chancellor, Indigenous leadership.

Professor Trudgett, a Wiradjuri woman, joined the university in 2019 but prior to that held senior positions at the University of Technology Sydney and Macquarie University.

In her PVC role at WSU she led its Indigenous Strategy, ensured study and pastoral support for Indigenous students and advised the university’s senior executive.

Professor Trudgett welcomed the new opportunity to “celebrate, protect and share Indigenous knowledge, culture, and heritage” at WSU.

“Throughout my career, my work has been dedicated to the core principle that Indigenous communities thrive when there are Indigenous leaders at the apex of our institutions,” Professor Trudgett said.

Vice-chancellor Barney Glover said the creation of the new role was in line with the university’s “strong commitment to ensuring Indigenous people take up their rightful place at the centre of decision-making – not just at our university, but across our region and the nation.”

The university has also appointed assistant VC Andy Marks as its new PVC, strategy, government and alliances.

He will lead government relations, advocacy initiatives and collaborations with industry and the community, including driving major partnerships with peak bodies, advocacy groups, alliances and networks.

Professor Marks is also chief executive officer of the NUW Alliance — comprised of the University of Newcastle, the University of Wollongong, UNSW and WSU — and director of the Centre for Western Sydney.