What does it take to future-proof universities and how can student leaders shape the next decade of higher education? In this episode of Better Student Leaders, Josh Farr is joined by Professor Chris Moran, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of the University of New England. With a career spanning CSIRO, UQ, Curtin, and now UNE, Professor Moran has led world-class research, always with an eye on how strategy and innovation prepare communities for the future.
Across the conversation, Professor Moran shares candid insights on leadership, innovation, and the role of kindness in shaping better universities:
00:00 – What does a Vice-Chancellor do?
“The one thing that cuts across all my days is communication. My children would ask, ‘How many people did you speak to today, Dad?’”
03:20 – Balance, Focus & Kindness
“Where are those moments — like the club hitting the golf ball — where you must be in full focus? And is there kindness in the room?”
07:55 – Tradition vs. Bold Innovation
“UNE’s founders asked, "Why should you have to come to Armidale to study? Let’s just use the post!" That was their AI moment.”
10:35 – A Bold Vision for 2040
“Could we set up a system where students study their profession while delivering real services to the community? Could we do that at scale?”
16:20 – International Education & Future Leadership
“Leaders of the future must be relationship-based, empathetic, and embrace mental wellness as part of humanness.”
31:30 – Universities, AI & Relevance
“A nation that does research has a future. If universities stop creating knowledge, Google will gobble us up.”
Chris closes with one clear challenge to every student leader:
“Remaining human — that’s the skill every student leader should focus on.”
Whether you’re a student leader, staff member, or someone passionate about the future of education, this episode is packed with courage, community, and kindness to inspire your leadership journey.