Jim Varghese AM has been appointed as the Chancellor of Torrens University Australia.
In a media release the university said:
“We are delighted to share with you news of our new Chancellor. Mr Jim Varghese AM will succeed Mr Michael Mann AO, as Chancellor of Torrens University.
We are thankful for Michael’s contribution over the years and Jim is the perfect individual to continue this legacy forward. We look forward to welcoming Jim in January 2022.”
Mr. Varghese will take over from Mr. Michael Mann AO who served as the Chancellor from 2012 to 2021.
Retiring Chancellor Michael Mann AO said he was very pleased with the Board’s decision.
“On behalf of the University Board, I am delighted to announce Mr Varghese as the University’s new chancellor. Jim is a highly effective, respected, and successful leader in both the private sector and public institutions.
His reputation in the Higher Education sector is impeccable, with a commitment to the highest standards of governance, transparency, equity, and stakeholder management.”
Jim Varghese had a distinguished career in the Australian Public Service. He was the Director-General of the Department of Primary Industries in Queensland after having also been Director-General of Education.
Mr. Varghese’s family came to Australia in the 1960s, and he strongly believes education is a core family value.
“I believe education is a fundamental human right, and I also believe that innovation is crucial to ensure greater access to education.
Torrens University balances both considerations and also manages to run a highly successful business.”
In a LinkedIn post, Mr. Varghese said:
“It is a great privilege to accept the position of Chancellor of Torrens University. I look forward to the opportunity to work with and enhance this innovative for-profit university.”
Torrens University President and CEO Linda Brown said on the announcement.
“Jim Varghese is the perfect individual to continue this legacy forward.”
Torrens University is Australia’s international university and vocational registered training organisation.
It began teaching in 2014 in its headquarters building in the Torrens Building in Adelaide city center.
It offers vocational and higher education undergraduate, graduate, higher degree by research and specialised degree programs in a wide range of academic disciplines.
Robert S. Silberman, Chairman of the Board of Strategic Education Inc., said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Jim to Torrens University. Jim has an impeccable record in both the public service in Australia, in commercial enterprise, and he also has a strong track record working globally.
His deep background in education, and his commitment to ensuring greater access to education for all, means he is the ideal choice of Chancellor.”
Mr. Varghese is also the National Chair of Australia India Business Council (AIBC) and will assume his new role at Torrens University from 1 January 2022.
