Highly-regarded Adventist educator Dr Malcolm Coulson has been appointed as the interim vice-chancellor (VC) and president of Avondale University.
His appointment follows a decision by current president and VC, Professor Kerri-Lee Krause, to conclude her tenure in July.
Dr Coulson brings a wealth of experience to Avondale garnered from many years working in the Adventist education sector. He has served as a teacher, principal, education director, university lecturer and university administrator. Dr Coulson served as president of Fulton Adventist University College, Fiji, from 2020 until 2022 when he was appointed education director for the South Pacific Division.
Over the years he has maintained close ties with Avondale, having previously served as its vice president (learning and teaching). His recent involvement has seen him working closely on Avondale’s renewal plan and the preparations for the university’s Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) re-registration submission.
Reflecting on his new role, Dr Coulson said, “I am honoured to work with the administration, staff and students as we ensure continuity in the period leading up to the appointment of a new VC.
“We will miss the leadership and clarity of direction provided by Professor Krause in the time she has been at Avondale and in the role of VC,” he added.
Avondale University chancellor Pastor Glenn Townend said Dr Coulson’s vast experience in educational leadership will be an asset for the university.
“Malcolm is a strong Adventist education leader who has the knowledge and experience that Avondale needs,” Pastor Townend said.
“Having an interim president allows a longer period to find the right person to lead Avondale into its desired future.”
Dr Coulson’s tenure at Avondale is planned to commence on June 24 and he will work closely with Professor Krause until her departure in July.
