USQ appoints Dean of Education

An internationally renowned Arts Education researcher has been named Dean of Education and Pro-Vice Chancellor (Regional Engagement and Social Justice) at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ).

Professor Nita Temmerman is currently employed as the Associate Dean of International Development and Partnerships in the Faculty of Education at Deakin University in Victoria.

USQ Vice Chancellor, Professor Bill Lovegrove, said he is delighted with the appointment and looks forward to working closely with her on the University executive team.

'In her current role at Deakin University Professor Temmerman has contributed to the strategic direction of the Faculty, increased international student numbers and improved the Faculty's profile in international circles.

'During her career Professor Temmerman has also gained a reputation as an international expert in the field of Art Education.

'As part of this research she has authored 14 music education books and over 40 publications in refereed international and national journals.

'A qualified music teacher, Professor Temmerman has also kept in close contact with teachers during her career.

'Although her major discipline field is Performing Arts Education, she has also contributed to both the education foundations and curriculum studies areas in undergraduate and postgraduate Education programs in four universities.'

Energetic and dynamic, Professor Temmerman has presented keynote presentations for teachers and educators in Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the USA.

'Professor Temmerman was an invited reviewer for the Solomon Islands Primary and Secondary school Music syllabus and an invited expert Arts Education consultant for the Early Learning Centre in Singapore and Sri KDU Smart School in Kuala Lumpur.

'She is a member of the Australian Council of Deans of Education, the Australia Council for the Arts, Register of Peers, the Victorian Deans of Education, the Australian College of Education and the International and Australian Society for Music Education,' said Professor Lovegrove.

Professor Temmerman will commence at USQ in January 2007 and replaces Professor Frank Crowther AM, who retired from the University in July 2006.

Media Contact: Amy Cass, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2092 or +61 412 097 326