Professor Scott Bowman to step down as Vice-Chancellor of Charles Darwin University

Charles Darwin University (CDU) today announced that Professor Scott Bowman will conclude his tenure as Vice-Chancellor and President. 

Professor Bowman and the University Executive Council have agreed that it is in CDU's best interests for Professor Bowman to step aside at this time. 

This decision will enable CDU to work through its current challenges and fulfil its responsibilities to students, staff and the Northern Territory community. 

It is important that the focus remains firmly on the issues, and that efforts are galvanised to deliver quality training, teaching and research.

CDU Chancellor The Honourable Trevor Riley AO KC paid tribute to Professor Bowman's contribution while acknowledging the difficulty of the circumstances surrounding his departure.

"These are not easy moments, and I want to acknowledge Scott's grace in this decision and his commitment to CDU above all else. I also want to acknowledge those who have been impacted by the circumstances surrounding this transition. On behalf of CDU TAFE, we extend our sincere apologies to those impacted and for the concern and disruption this period of uncertainty has caused. We remain committed to our students, staff, and the broader community," he said.

Chancellor Riley thanked Professor Bowman for his service and reflected on his achievements.

“Scott has made a significant contribution to the University and to the people of the Northern Territory, and I thank him sincerely for the dedication he brought to the role,” Chancellor Riley said. 

“In so many ways, Charles Darwin University is on a stronger footing because of Scott’s leadership. 

“Scott significantly expanded the University’s reach and impact across the Northern Territory and broadened CDU’s program offerings to serve more students and communities. He extended training opportunities and led the development of a medical program that will have lasting significance for the people of the Northern Territory. 

“University surveys reflect meaningful improvements in staff culture and morale - a reflection of Scott's genuine commitment to the people of CDU.” 

From today, Scott will commence a period of leave. Professor Fiona Coulson, Provost, will serve as Acting Vice-Chancellor during this time, before transitioning to the Interim Vice-Chancellor role for approximately six months. In the meantime, a formal recruitment process will be undertaken to appoint CDU's next Vice-Chancellor.

“I have every confidence in Fiona’s leadership and in the strength of our University community as we move through this period of transition together,” Chancellor Riley said.