Chancellor

Mr James Harris, Chancellor

Mr James Harris

James Harris is a recognised local business owner and has been a Grazier in the New England since 1979. He owns and manages 'Abington' and established Forster of Abington Pty Ltd in 1990.

In 2007, Mr Harris was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of the University, University of New England. Mr Harris was first appointed to the University of New England Council in 1994 and has served on numerous UNE Council Committees to date including:

  • Chair, Buildings & Grounds Committee;
  • Member, Audit & Compliance Committee;
  • Member, Finance Committee;
  • Member, Standing Committee;
  • Member, Honorary Degrees, Titles & Tributes Committee; and
  • Chair, Audit & Compliance Committee.

Mr Harris served as Deputy Chancellor of the University from 2001 to 2007 and played a distinguished role on various Selection Committees for various academic appointments.

Mr Harris' community involvement is also extensive and he has served on a number of community boards and committees including:

  • President of the Bundarra Jockey Club;
  • Chair of the Wool Expo;
  • Chair of the Fund-Raising Committee of NERAM; and
  • Trustee of NERAM.

In November 2014, Mr James Harris was elected as Chancellor of the University of New England, by UNE Council for a term of five years.