Wendy Mayer appointed Emeritus Professor of the University

Congratulations to Wendy Mayer, appointed Emeritus Professor of the University of Divinity by the University Council on 9 November 2022. Emeritus Professor Mayer is outgoing Dean of Research Strategy at the University, and will be taking early retirement with effect from Christmas this year. Though this recognition, the Council honours Wendy’s contribution to the University.

In announcing the appointment Professor Peter Sherlock, Vice-Chancellor, said:

I am profoundly grateful to Wendy for all she has contributed to the University since 2017, both as Associate Dean (Research), and as Dean of Research Strategy. She has transformed the research culture of the University and its Colleges, as a champion for the vital role of research and innovation in our churches, partner agencies, and wider community, and as an advocate for research relationships, whether with research students, early career researchers, or established researchers. Her creativity and deep understanding of Christian theological and ecclesial traditions has shaped the University’s focus on standing up for the value of unpopular or uncounted forms of research, as well as developing the courage to tackle difficult or controversial topics.

About the appointment, Wendy said:

I am deeply honoured by the appointment. It’s the classic story of retiring so that I can be free to do what I love most – research and mentoring the next generation. Working to support, advocate for, and celebrate the amazing research that is being produced across the University has been highly rewarding these past few years, but I’ve been yearning to get back to my own writing and research. As Emeritus Professor I look forward to continuing to work with all of the researchers across the University to build its reputation within Australia and internationally.

To be appointed as Emeritus Professor of the University a person must have rendered sustained and exceptional service, through leadership or personal performance, which has added to the reputation of the University. Wendy is the fifth person appointed Emeritus Professor of the University – the first time in the University’s history that a woman has been awarded the title.

Wendy will be publicly acknowledged and thanked at the University’s upcoming graduation ceremony in Adelaide on Friday 2 December 2022.