Professor Jessica Gallagher joined the University of Adelaide as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (External Engagement) in November 2021.
Jessica is responsible for overseeing a diverse engagement portfolio with a focus on contributing to the growth and sustainability of the University through leadership of strategic partnerships, recruitment, community outreach and internationalisation initiatives,
As Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement), Jessica leads the strategy and delivery of the University’s key services in advancement, alumni and community relations, media, corporate relations and communications, marketing and student recruitment, as well as global engagement and partnerships.
Prior to joining the University of Adelaide, Jessica held the position of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement & Entrepreneurship) at the University of Queensland (UQ) where she established and executed innovative global strategies that fostered high performing partnerships across sectors and geographies. In this role, she also led the development of the University’s first Entrepreneurship Strategy and oversee the establishment of a suite of collaborative programs within the UQ Ventures umbrella.
Professor Gallagher has a PhD in Comparative Cultural Studies from UQ and has authored papers and reports in relation to her doctoral research, as well as on approaches to strategic global partnerships, international education, and student experience in higher education.
Professor Gallagher is recognised among the industry for giving a voice to where mainstream and minorities intersect. She has steered the establishment of scholarships and partnerships that support students from Delhi slums, created new opportunities for refugees and those with a humanitarian disadvantage, and led the expansion of female founder and leadership activities. This pursuit for a more inclusive and diverse world has also inspired Professor Gallagher to assume a board position at Multicultural Australia and previously on the Kokoda Track Foundation.