Full Breakdown
Griffith University Appoints Former Student Jessica Vanderlelie as Vice-Chancellor
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Appointment
On September 11, 2026, Griffith University announced that Professor Jessica Vanderlelie will assume the role of vice-chancellor, becoming the institution’s sixth leader in its 55-year history. Her first day is scheduled for November 16. She succeeds interim vice-chancellor Professor Liz Burd, who had filled the post after Professor Carolyn Evans departed for the University of Melbourne in April.
Background and Career Highlights
Vanderlelie began her academic journey at Griffith 30 years ago, completing both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees there before joining the Gold Coast campus as a lecturer. She later served as deputy vice-chancellor (academic) at Deakin University, where she helped shape the 2026-2030 education and employability guiding plan. Prior to Deakin, she was vice-chancellor of La Trobe University until 2025 and has sat on the Universities Australia board for nearly six years. Her career is noted for championing under-represented students, including receiving Griffith’s inaugural vice-chancellor’s Teacher of the Year award and the innovative research universities fellow distinction in 2016.
Official Statements & Responses
University officials highlighted Vanderlelie’s involvement in national discussions on the impact of artificial intelligence on the tertiary sector and Australian education. The university’s statement emphasized that her appointment marks the first time a former Griffith student has risen to the vice-chancellor role.
Verbatim Quote
- “Professor Vanderlelie is an outstanding educational leader and is passionate about the opportunity for education to make a difference,” — Andrew Fraser
What’s Next
Vanderlelie will begin her tenure on November 16, at which point she is expected to lead the university through its next strategic planning cycle and continue advocacy for inclusive student experiences.
