When I became Vice-Chancellor of this great institution in 2004, my vision was to see Bond University recognised for what it was, what it stood for and what it could be. Eight years later, I feel satisfied and proud that we are well and truly further advanced on the journey to realising that vision.
Bond is now accepted by other Australian universities, all levels of government and by the local, national and international communities as a top rate university that’s really making a mark. People are now taking note and looking at what we do more so than ever before, and I think that, perhaps is our greatest achievement.
This growth in recognition and respectability is just one of many changes I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing during my tenure, a time during which we’ve seen student numbers swell from 2,000 to 4,500 and external research income increase 20-fold. We’ve also seen great achievements in teaching and learning and the introduction of many new facilities and programs.
Among so many proud moments, are those times when Alumni would pop into my office to tell me of their successes. To continue to hear of your achievements would be the most wonderful thing. People going forth with great careers, each paying tribute, at least in part, to their great university is perhaps the greatest legacy of all.
It’s been a fantastic eight years – truly a team effort – and I can’t thank everyone enough. To our former Chancellor Trevor C. Rowe AO and current Chancellor Dr Helen Nugent AO, the University Council, senior management, staff, students, benefactors, Alumni all over the world, the universities we work with and all the people that I’ve met along the way, thank you.
I’ve been very fortunate in that every single job I’ve had, I’ve made the decision about when I wanted to go and I think that is important. Even though I’m absolutely convinced the time is right to retire – it’s right for me, it’s right for the University – there’s always some sadness when you move on. But I’m very much looking forward to the next stage of my life, whatever it may entail.
I look forward to continuing to watch and enjoy the successes that I know Bond will continue to have in years to come.
Professor Robert Stable
Vice-Chancellor and President