Professor Lisa Wirihana has been appointed the new Dean of the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences (SNMSS) at CQUniversity.
Bringing a wealth of experience and passion for education to the leadership role, Professor Wirihana has previously served three years as CQU’s Head of College (HoC), under the guidance of her predecessor and long-time Dean Professor Moira Williamson, who is entering retirement.
“I learnt a lot from Moira, who modelled how to be a great leader,” Professor Wirihana said.
“I had the opportunity to cover her leave and found that I really enjoyed the diversity of the role. I felt I had something meaningful to offer and knew this was the right path for me.”
Professor Wirihana’s connection to the nursing career spans generations, as she comes from a long line of nurses in her mother, sister, son, daughter and granddaughter, who have all been in the profession.
“My love of nursing started as a child, listening to my mother’s stories. Becoming a midwife was a dream – helping women during pregnancy and childbirth felt like the greatest privilege,” said Professor Wirihana, who was born in Canada, grew up in New Zealand and moved to Australia in her early 20’s.
“I gained my registered nurse qualification in New Zealand and became a midwife in Queensland. I am so proud to be able to call Australia home,” she said.
Her academic leadership career has seen her hold senior roles across CQUniversity and James Cook University (JCU), including Academic Coordinator, Head of Course – Bachelor of Nursing, Head of College – Nursing and Midwifery, and Academic Head of Nursing and Midwifery.
Most recently, she served at JCU but said the opportunity to return to CQU in her dream role was too good to pass up.
“James Cook University was a great place to work but when the opportunity came to lead the School at CQU, I knew this was where I belonged,” she said.
Professor Wirihana holds a Bachelor of Nursing (Edith Cowan University), a Master of Nursing (Professional Studies) (Queensland University of Technology), and a PhD in Nursing from CQUniversity.
CQUniversity’s Vice-President Academic Professor Michelle Bellingan said she was delighted to have Professor Wirihana appointed to the position of Dean.
“Lisa’s dedication to evidence-based practice and patient-centred care led her to pursue an academic career, earning advanced degrees and contributing to the education of future healthcare professionals,” Professor Bellingan said.
“She has the ideal combination of knowledge, skills and senior leadership experience to elevate the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences to the next level.”
As the new Dean, Professor Wirihana said she’s excited to shape the next generation of nurses, midwives and social workers.
“Helping students gain an education that can change their lives and their families’ lives is truly a privilege,” she said.
“Moira has left the School in a strong position, and initially, my focus will be on continuing that great work,” she said.
“Long term, I want to further strengthen the School’s position as a leader in Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences education and research, especially in regional and rural areas. Providing education to people who might not otherwise have the opportunity is truly fulfilling.”