“Many people are very worried about the future. But what about our wildlife? How will they respond?"17 June: The University of Canberra’s new dean of education is a former student of the faculty.
Professor Cathryn McConaghy completed a graduate diploma of education at the University in 1981. This week she returns to the University as head of the Faculty of Education.
Professor McConaghy is the first of five new deans to join the University of Canberra as part of the ongoing process of renewal at Australia’s Capital University.
“My degree from the University of Canberra was a wonderful preparation for my career as a professional educator,” Professor McConaghy said.
“The University of Canberra changed my life and I’m delighted to be able to give something back.
“I have read the University’s strategic plan. Strategic plans can often be dry documents, but I found the vision for the University of Canberra quite exciting. There is a strong feeling of renewal and change at the University of Canberra.”
Professor McConaghy has spent the last 11½ years at the University of New England, most recently as deputy head of UNE’s School of Education. She has worked as an educator in the Northern Territory, running adult education programs for Indigenous communities in Arnhem Land. She has been a social policy adviser to the Queensland Government and was a participant at the 2020 Summit.
Her background in education, research and policy and her strong commitment to social justice will all influence how Professor McConaghy runs the faculty.
“The possibility of leading the national agenda in education from the nation’s capital is an exciting idea. I can also see opportunities to work with the deans of education in capital cities around the world,” she said.
“ACT schools are among the most innovative in the country, so I can see huge opportunities to build on the University’s close relationship with schools in the capital – where many University of Canberra graduates are employed.”
