John Dornbusch: A Chancellor’s Legacy

As John Dornbusch retires from his role as Chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) this week, he leaves behind a legacy built over decades of dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to higher education. Reflecting on his 25-year journey with the University – including a decade as Chancellor – John offers a glimpse into the experiences, challenges, and triumphs that have defined his tenure.

The Beginnings of a Lifelong Connection

John's relationship with UniSQ began long before his appointment as Chancellor. It dates back to 1972 when he first set foot on the Toowoomba campus as a student at the then-Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education (DDIAE). As a first-generation university student from a family of six, he embarked on a journey that would shape his future and, ultimately, the future of the University itself.

“I came on campus during an interesting period in Australia’s history, towards the end of the Vietnam War,” John recalled. “Campuses across the country were more agitated and probably more exciting than they are now. I think students today have to work harder than we did.”

Despite the challenges of balancing studies with part-time work, John’s time at UniSQ was marked by camaraderie, lifelong friendships, and even romance. He met his wife-to-be on campus – and they have now been married for 42 years.

From Student to Executive

John’s academic journey continued as he completed his diploma in teaching and later returned to UniSQ to complete a Bachelor of Education and an MBA. His career path took a turn toward the finance sector, where he spent a significant part of his professional life as an executive at Macquarie Bank.

His connection to UniSQ remained strong. When the opportunity arose to give back to the university that had given him so much, he didn’t hesitate.

“I really need to learn to say no,” he said with a smile. “It’s been a problem for me. People ask me to do things, and I normally say yes.” One of those requests came from former UniSQ Chancellor Allison Dickson, who asked him, with others, to start an alumni association for the University.

A Steady Hand at the Helm

In the years that followed, John’s role at UniSQ expanded. He joined the University Council as an elected alumni representative and later as a government appointee. He chaired the finance committee for 12 years during a critical growth phase for UniSQ, a period marked by significant financial challenges.

“We set some simple goals, and we’re now in a position where we have a strong balance sheet, nil net debt, and cash reserves,” he said. “I’m very proud of that.”

In 2014, he was appointed Chancellor of the University, a role he would hold for over a decade. During his tenure, he oversaw significant advancements in research, education, and governance while navigating the complexities of the modern higher education landscape.

Championing Research and Innovation

One of John’s most significant achievements as Chancellor has been the University’s improved reputation as a leader in research. Under his leadership, UniSQ has made strides in various fields, from space and defence to health and agriculture.

“Our research performance has been stellar,” he said. “Everyone in the sector sat up and took notice when we were awarded the Space and Defence Trailblazer initiative a couple of years ago.

When you’ve got UniSQ leading the likes of ANU, that’s a feather in the cap for the team here and our researchers.”

The University’s contributions to research extend beyond space and defence. UniSQ is now recognised as a research leader in areas such as cotton and prostate cancer, as well as for its work with NASA, Boeing, John Deere and the German space agency.

“Sometimes it amazes me that locals don’t really know what they’ve got on their doorstep,” John reflected. “People don’t realise the depth of research that goes on here and across the country – it’s so vital.”

A Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

John’s legacy at UniSQ is also defined by his commitment to equity and inclusion. He is particularly proud of the University’s efforts to support Indigenous students, especially in the field of nursing.

“One of the things I’m super proud of is that we’ve graduated the most Indigenous nurses of any university in the country,” John said. “That’s a great performance by the University in a vitally important area.”

This dedication to supporting students from diverse backgrounds reflects John’s broader belief in the transformative power of education. As he prepares to leave his role as Chancellor, he hopes that UniSQ will continue to build on this foundation and remain a leader in promoting access to education for all.

Looking to the Future

As John prepares to hand over the reins to his successor, Dr John McVeigh, he is optimistic about the future of UniSQ. Dr McVeigh – a UniSQ alumnus with extensive experience in academia and government – is well-positioned to lead the University into its next chapter.

“John has the background and will be immeasurably smarter and better than me at relating with senior bureaucrats and politicians because he has that skill and experience,” John said. “He also has the experience of being an integral part of the research team here – he has a PhD in agribusiness. I’m so happy that he’s also a graduate here as well, so it’s in his DNA.”

While John is confident in McVeigh’s ability to lead, he acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead for the higher education sector. However, with challenges come opportunities, and the outgoing Chancellor believes UniSQ is well-positioned to seize them.

“I can see some tremendous opportunities,” John said. “There’s no doubt that UniSQ is the leading regional university in the country.”

A Fond Farewell

As John’s tenure as Chancellor ends, he looks back on his time at UniSQ with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. From his days as a student in the 1970s to his years as Chancellor, his journey with UniSQ has been marked by a commitment to excellence, a passion for education, and a belief in the power of universities to change lives.

John’s greatest reward has been the relationships he has built along the way – with students, staff, fellow Chancellors, and the broader UniSQ community. As he prepares to step down, he does so with the knowledge that he has made a lasting impact on the university he has called home for more than half a century.

“I’ve felt really privileged to be part of the sector,” John said. “I’ve met some terrific Australians who have made significant contributions to the country, and I’ve made some good friends over that period of time. I’ll miss them.”

With a legacy that will be felt for years to come, John Dornbusch leaves UniSQ in capable hands, ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future. And while his time as Chancellor may be coming to a close, his impact on the University will endure.