Murdoch appoints interim VC

Murdoch University has appointed provost Romy Lawson to serve as interim vice-chancellor while it searches for a replacement for outgoing vice-chancellor Eeva Leinonen.

Professor Lawson joined Murdoch as deputy vice-chancellor of education in 2016 and was elevated to the role of provost two years later.

Prior to that she held roles with Edith Cowan University, University of Wollongong, James Cook University and University of Technology Sydney.

Chancellor Gary Smith informed alumni about the appointment yesterday evening.

“As you know, Professor Lawson has worked closely with the vice-chancellor and senior executive group since 2016 to maintain the reputation and integrity of the university,” Mr Smith said.

“I am confident that our provost is best suited to maintaining a strong and resilient steady state for the university, while honouring our collective work and achievements.

“Professor Lawson has both my confidence and that of the university senate to take us through this transition period until a newly appointed vice-chancellor commences in their role.”

Professor Lawson’s appointment comes amid a major visual rebranding for Murdoch University, launched in April, and news the university reported an operating deficit of $6.3 million this past calendar year.

Professor Leinonen will officially depart as vice-chancellor in October to become president of Maynooth University in Ireland.