New head of architecture appointed

13 October: The former head of the National Capital Authority, Annabelle Pegrum has been appointed head of architecture at the University of Canberra, she has been an adjunct professor of architecture at the University since 1999.

Professor Pegrum said she was delighted to be joining the University:

“For the past 40 years the University of Canberra has done this city proud, earning a reputation for excellence nationally and internationally in many fields. I am delighted to have this opportunity to contribute to the University and to its architecture programs,” she said.

“I have always advocated that Canberra as our National Capital must demonstrate leadership in planning and design. The architecture courses at the University are uniquely placed to draw upon and contribute to the quality, culture and success of the capital.

“I have a deep interest in architectural education and am committed to this city. I am looking forward to working with the University and design professions to ensure excellence in our architecture courses and research and to foster a real passion for design.”

Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen Parker welcomed the appointment:

“Professor Pegrum has a very impressive background in architecture, design and planning. I am delighted she will be joining the University,” Professor Parker said.

“Canberra is distinguished as a designed capital and as Australia’s Capital University we are committed to being a leader in design and architecture. With her expertise in the field and extensive experience of territory and federal government, Professor Pegrum is uniquely qualified to lead our architecture program.”

Professor Pegrum has worked in private practice as an architect and is a former president of the ACT Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. She has held senior executive roles in the ACT Government and most recently the Commonwealth Government as chief executive of the National Capital Authority.

She worked as a lecturer at the University of Canberra in the 1980s and was the 1998 Telstra ACT Business Woman of the Year.

Professor Pegrum will take up the post on 15 October.