In a
statement from UniSA, Bradley was described as “one of the most influential
leaders in the history of the University and in higher education in Australia”.
A formidable
intellect and advocate for the role of education in transforming lives, Bradley
campaigned for equality within the university and led by example.
Bradley began
her career as a high school teacher and faced the challenges typical of her era
for a married woman with children aspiring to leadership roles. Ultimately she
became a respected leader in higher education in Australia and authored the
Bradley Review of Higher Education for the Australian government in 2008.
According to current UniSA Vice Chancellor Professor David Lloyd, Bradley had one of best understandings of higher education in the nation and dedicated her career to making changes that would see more women, Aboriginal people and people from diverse social and economic backgrounds have the transformational opportunity of a good education.
“She
understood very clearly that education not only empowers individuals but
transforms whole societies,” Lloyd said.
“Her influence
on university sector governance and policy leadership has been extraordinary.
“The
Bradley Review of Higher Education set vital benchmarks for higher education participation,
designed to ensure Australia could justify its claim as ‘the clever country’.
“At this
University, she set the tone for what it was to be one of the new Dawkins
universities – places unshackled by tradition, where optimism, industry
connectivity and inclusion were foundational values and where more Australians,
from more diverse backgrounds would start to build their careers.
“As Vice Chancellor, Denise
grew UniSA and changed the outlook of the University to one
that was internationally focussed and engaged, and
a trusted leader in international education in the region.”
Bradley
was an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1995; a recipient of a Centenary
Medal in 2003; named South Australian of the Year in 2005; made a Companion of
the Order of Australia in 2008; and was conferred the prestigious College Medal
by the Australian College of Educators in 2011. She was awarded an Honorary
Doctorate from UniSA in 2007.
“The
University of South Australia would not be the institution it is today without
the insightful and determined leadership Denise provided more than a decade ago,”
Lloyd said.
“Her passion,
her willingness to challenge the status quo, her understanding that change and
adaptability, or as she would say, being “fleet of foot” is a tool for success –
these qualities are now part of UniSA – part of our shared DNA…our enterprising
spirit.”
The Adelaide Review extends our sympathies to Denise Bradley’s family, particularly her son Dave Bradley, who has been a long-standing contributor to our pages.
Amanda is a journalist, editor and publisher who has dedicated much of her career to independent media in South Australia. She is currently editor and publisher of The Adelaide Review.
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