FORMER ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope joins the University of Canberra next month as a professorial fellow.

Mr Stanhope will begin a three-year contract with the university in a part-time capacity on August 1. His role will be varied and will include teaching, research and strategic advice to Vice-Chancellor professor Stephen Parker.

Professor Parker said he was delighted Mr Stanhope had chosen to continue his contribution to the capital through the university that bears the city’s name.

“Jon Stanhope brings a wealth of experience to the University of Canberra,” Professor Parker said. “His appointment will strengthen our research and education programs in leadership and public policy. We will also benefit from Jon’s expertise, advice and experience as we continue to evolve.”

Mr Stanhope’s academic activities will take place through the ANZSOG Institute of Governance at UC (which is a part of the Australia New Zealand School of Government). His role will be to develop a new stream of applied research on political management issues in State-Commonwealth relations.

He will also add practical high level insights to the University’s Master of Public Administration degree and teach in the leadership and professional development programs that the ANZSOG Institute currently offers to elected and non-elected office holders in the ACT and Commonwealth Governments.

“I have been impressed for many years by the significant positive impact the University of Canberra makes as the university of the capital city,” Mr Stanhope said. “Through my former role as Chief Minister and in my daily life as a resident of Belconnen I have seen the many levels at which this fine institution contributes to our city and our region.

“As Chief Minister I was proud to forge closer ties between the ACT Government and the University of Canberra through a memorandum of understanding. I am proud now to be able to build on that relationship in this new and exciting role.

“I look forward to doing my part to help the University of Canberra continue on its path of growth and excellence in education, research and service to the community.”

University of Canberra professorial fellows include former chief of the Australian Army Lt-Gen Prof Peter Leahy, who is director the University’s National Security Institute.