University College Appoints Andrew Swan as Head of College
University College Appoints Andrew Swan as Head of College
The Council of University College is delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Swan as the College's next Head of College, commencing in January 2027.
Andrew joins University College from Mannix College at Monash University, where he has served as Principal since 2021.
During his tenure, he has led a significant period of renewal and growth, strengthening the College's culture, governance, student experience and financial sustainability, while overseeing major capital improvements and the development of new strategic partnerships.
Andrew will become the tenth Head of College in the 89-year history of University College following a distinguished succession of Heads whose leadership has shaped the College's character, culture and reputation.
University College Appoints Andrew Swan as Head of College
University College Council President, Lisa Williams, said the Council was delighted to appoint Andrew and looked forward to welcoming him and his family to the College.
"University College has a unique history and character, and Andrew’s appointment to the College recognisees and builds on this history. Andrew brings his deep values-based leadership, significant sector experience and an unwavering commitment to student wellbeing. We look forward to Andrew leading University College into the next era of residential college life."
Andrew has worked in the Australian university college sector for more than 15 years and is widely recognised as a leader in residential education. A lifelong advocate for the residential college experience, he first became involved as a college resident, later serving as Student President and Alumni President of his own college community. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education, specialising in leadership, policy and change.
Prior to his appointment as Principal of Mannix, Andrew was Director of the Tuckwell Scholarship Program at the Australian National University, one of Australia's most prestigious undergraduate scholarship programs. Earlier in his career, he held a range of leadership and residential life roles at Monash University.
Andrew has also made significant contributions to the Australian higher education sector. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of Universities Colleges Australia, which is the leading organisation representing university colleges, and on the Advisory Board of the National Association of Australian University Colleges, the peak body for student leaders in university colleges and residential communities. In these roles, he contributes to national policy development, fosters collaboration within the sector and promotes best practices in residential education.
Andrew said he was honoured to have been entrusted with the role.
"It is an enormous privilege to join a College with such a proud history and strong sense of community. I do so with deep respect for the legacy left by Dr Jennifer McDonald, and the remarkable Heads of College throughout University College’s history."
"My wife, Sophie, our three young children, Theo, Charlotte and Maggie, and I are genuinely excited to become part of the University College community. We look forward to getting to know students, staff, alumni and friends of the College, and to contributing to the vibrant life of the College for many years to come."
Andrew will commence as Head of College in January 2027, as University College celebrates its 90th anniversary.