Professor Donald McNeill appointed as Head of School and Dean of Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning - The University of Sydney
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Professor Donald McNeill appointed as Head of School and Dean of Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning

7 January 2025
Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Annamarie Jagose, announced that Professor Donald McNeill has been appointed Head of School and Dean of Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning.
Professor Donald McNeill

Professor Donald McNeill

Following an internationally competitive recruitment round, Professor Donald McNeill will take up the substantive role from 7 January 2025.

As a member of the School Executive and interim Head of School since July this year, Donald has invaluable insight into the student experience and the challenges faced by both students and academics in large cohort coursework.

“His extensive experience in research and academic roles provides a unique perspective on the sector's challenges and opportunities. With a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and strong leadership skills, he is an asset to the University,” said Annamarie.

Upon accepting the appointment, Donald said “I am honoured to guide this historic, fast-changing school forward into a future where we build on our youthful profile to grow into one of the world’s leading design and built environment schools.”

“I see my role as deepening excellence within areas of established knowledge and expertise, while identifying the edge areas where great interactions and discoveries can be made. I am passionate about enabling the next generation of leaders in the school and supporting First Nations academic leadership.”

Donald began his career as an academic in the United Kingdom before relocating to Australia in 2007 to take up a role at Western Sydney University. Since joining the University of Sydney he has served as Associate Dean of Research from 2021 to 2024 and acting as interim Dean since July 2024.

His appointment follows the resignation of Professor Robyn Dowling, who will continue to support the University through involvement in strategic projects. 

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