2 June 2017: Multi-award-winning author and social commentator Anita Heiss has joined the University of Canberra as a Postdoctoral Fellow.
The Wiradjuri woman has stepped into the newly created position set up by the University’s Collaborative Indigenous Research Initiative and the Faculty of Arts and Design.
In her role, Dr Heiss will build knowledge and foster the appreciation of Indigenous studies and the cultural and social significance of writing. She will work closely with Creative and Cultural Associate Professor Tony Eaton on exploring children’s literature.
Dr Heiss, who has written and edited more than 15 books across genres, said she was thrilled to be joining the University of Canberra.
“I’m very proud and grateful to have this affiliation with the University of Canberra,” Dr Heiss said. “I think UC is a leader when it comes to Indigenous education. I know there are fantastic things going on there and I’m excited to be part of it.
“I’m very passionate about promoting Indigenous literacy and this is a wonderful opportunity for me to do that with the support of the University. I’m looking forward to spending some time on campus and sharing my knowledge of the writing and publishing industry and working with emerging writers who would like to have a career like mine.”
As part of her role, Dr Heiss will present a number of guest lectures and writing workshops with staff and students. She will also mentor postgraduate and writing students.
Dean of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership and Strategy Professor Peter Radoll welcomed the appointment.
“Dr Heiss brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in Indigenous literature to the University,” Professor Radoll said.
“She is a prolific writer and is passionate about educating both young and older readers and writers. I’m very much looking forward to working with her.”
Professor Radoll said Dr Heiss’s contribution would help the University achieve its aim of improving tertiary education outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“We are committed to growing the number of Indigenous students and research-active staff at the University,” he said.
“Dr Heiss will assist in the area of Indigenous education and contribute to high-quality research.”
About Anita Heiss
Dr Heiss is currently the manager of the Epic Good Foundation, which works to support greater health outcomes for all Australians.
She is a member of the Wiradjuri nation of central New South Wales and author of non-fiction, historical fiction, commercial women's fiction, poetry, social commentary and travel articles.
Dr Heiss has written and edited more than 15 books including ‘Paris Dreaming’ and ‘Manhattan Dreaming’ which won Deadly Awards for Most Outstanding Contribution to Literature.
Her memoir ‘Am I Black Enough for You?’ won a Victoria Premier’s Literary Award for Indigenous Writing.
Dr Heiss is passionate about literacy and volunteers her time as an ambassador of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and Indigenous Literacy Day.
She has won a number of awards including an inaugural Australian Society of Authors Medal (Under 35) in 2003 in recognition of her contribution to Australian community and life.
Contact the University of Canberra media team:
Kim Pham: 0418 806 293
Claudia Doman: 0408 826 362