Proud North Queenslander promoted to uni leadership role

By Jocelyn Sticklen

CQUniversity has appointed Kate Harvey as the new Associate Vice-President (AVP) for the North and Far North Queensland regions, following a competitive recruitment process that attracted high quality candidates from across Australia.

Ms Harvey, who has been employed in CQUniversity’s Global Brand and Marketing team for almost a decade, will replace longstanding Associate Vice-President Jodie Duignan-George in the role. 

A lifelong North Queensland resident, Ms Harvey grew up in Babinda where her parents ran the local school bus service, before relocating to Cairns after school to commence her career. 

She has since worked in marketing roles across the North and says she is committed to enhancing CQUniversity’s impact through education, training and research. 

“I am a proud North Queenslander and I’m passionate about strengthening educational outcomes across the region’s diverse communities, including Cairns and Townsville, and supporting the region’s future growth and sustainability.

“CQUniversity has a proven track record of transforming lives and communities through education and research, and I am honoured to now have the opportunity and lead the University in the region I love.

“I look forward to making a positive difference in the community as part of this role,” Ms Havey said. 

Outgoing Associate Vice-President, Jodie Duignan-George who is departing the University to take up a new higher education leadership opportunity in the United Kingdom, said Ms Harvey brings deep knowledge of the tertiary education sector and the University and also has a deep connection to the North Queensland region. 

“Kate has proven herself as a leader at CQUniversity in a range of roles in our marketing and brand team, and while acting in the AVP position on several occasions, providing trusted guidance and continuity for the region.

“It was a really difficult decision for me to leave CQUniversity and North Queensland especially as we prepare for the new Cairns campus, but I feel really reassured knowing that Kate will continue to drive CQUniversity’s important impact and advocate for the North,” Ms Duignan-George said. 

CQUniversity’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Nick Klomp said Ms Harvey would play an important role in continuing to drive CQUniversity’s presence in North Queensland.

“Kate was the standout applicant due to her strong understanding of the North and Far North Queensland communities and her demonstrated ability to build productive relationships with schools, industry partners and local organisations. 

“Through her marketing and engagement roles, she has collaborated closely with regional schools and supported the University’s presence at industry events, forums and community initiatives.

“She has also already played an integral role in planning for the new Cairns campus, including leading consultation efforts during the early design phases and working with internal schools to progress strategic partnerships,” Professor Klomp said.

Professor Klomp also paid tribute to Ms Duignan-George and thanked her for her longstanding leadership. 

“Jodie has been an outstanding leader and will continue to be a valued member of our university community. We wish her all the best in her new role in the UK.”

CQUniversity’s North and Far North Queensland regions include its Cairns and Townsville campuses and its engagement and outreach efforts in neighbouring communities.

The role of Associate Vice-President oversees strategic engagement, infrastructure, student growth, outreach and course offerings. 

Kate Harvey will officially commence the role of Associate Vice-President for North and Far North Queensland on 19 February.