Prof. Paul Greenfield will step down from his role as chair of the Group of Eight

The Group of Eight announced the change early Friday evening, shortly
after Greenfield told UQ staff and alumni that he would be leaving
his position on December 16 instead of mid-next year.


"The Group of Eight secretariat is saddened by the news that
Professor Paul Greenfield is stepping down as Vice-Chancellor of The
University of Queensland and Go8 Chair," said a spokesman in a
statement.

"He has been a skilful and trusted leader of the Go8. The University
of Queensland has reached new heights through his direction and
drive. Those of us who have known him over many years have nothing
but admiration for his intellectual power, integrity and grace."

Greenfield is leaving following revelations an irregularity
surrounding the admission of a close relative into a medical degree.
It is believed the relative did not achieve the required
Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admissions Test score but
was allowed into the program anyway. Greenfield had already planned
to retire from the university in the middle of next year.

"In recent weeks, it has become increasingly difficult for me to
serve as vice-chancellor in the way this organisation and its
partners deserve. In addition, the ongoing pressure on my family and
the University is taking a toll, the level of which I am not prepared
to accept. As a consequence, I have decided to step down as
vice-chancellor of UQ from December 16, 2011, and depart the
university on January 13, 2012. This decision is mine, and has been
accepted by Senate," he wrote.

"Between now and January, I will work to ensure a smooth transition
to Professor Debbie Terry who will act in the VC role until a new
appointment is confirmed."

Terry, in her own letter, paid tribute to Greenfield and outgoing
senior deputy vice-chancellor Professor Michael Keniger, who is also
leaving the university on December 16.

"Under their leadership over the past four years, the university has
gone from strength to strength, performing exceptionally well in all
areas. I know that you will all join me in thanking Paul and Michael
for their many contributions and wishing them all the very best for
the future."