Members of the Waite community gathered in Lirra Lirra last Friday 31st January to share a drink with Associate Professor Chris Ford as his time as Interim Head of the School of Agriculture, Food and Wine and Dean of the Waite came to an end.
His January 2018 appointment to these roles for an initial period of six months was extended several times, with Chris also continuing to teach into several undergraduate courses during this time.
Chris has been part of the school since 2001 when he was appointed as a lecturer and has been teaching into biochemistry courses since 2009. He has also had roles as Associate Dean in the Faculty of Sciences, and Deputy Head of School Learning and Teaching here at Waite.
“Chris knows the people that make up this school well, he knows the challenges that come with research, chasing grant funding and the ever changing landscape of teaching,” Dr Beth Loveys said at the celebration.
“He cares about what happens on this campus and to the people that make this campus come alive. It is all these things that have made him a fantastic Interim Head of School and why so many of his colleagues are here to celebrate with him.”
Thankfully, Chris is not leaving but is planning a bit of a break and will be back at Waite – now with more time for research and teaching. On behalf of everyone here a very warm thank you Chris for expertly and gracefully guiding the Ag, Food and Wine ship for the last two years.
New Head of School, Professor Martin Cole, started in the role on February 3rd.
Chris Ford (centre) with School Manager Stuart Matthews
and Executive Officer Karen Chance.
