Whitehaven Coal chairman Mark Vaile has turned down his appointment as chancellor of Newcastle University,following a backlash over his fossil fuel links.Credit:Eryk Bagshaw
The university confirmed Mr Vaile’s decision in an email to all staff members,saying he had decided not to proceed with accepting the role.
“Mr Vaile said that he commends the University for its ethos as a unifying force,of and for our region and the communities it serves. Based on feedback from some of the University’s constituents,he believes that the best course of action is not to proceed with the appointment,” outgoing chancellor Paul Jeans said in the email.
“We respect Mr Vaile’s decision and recognise that he has made this decision in the best interests of the university.”
Mr Vaile was contacted for comment.
His decision not to take up the role was welcomed by the University of Newcastle Students’ Association,which had campaigned against his appointment. In a statement posted to its Facebook page,the association declared it was “delighted that students won”.
“Our university has a strong history as a leader in sustainability,being the first university in Australia to procure a contract to be 100 per cent renewably powered and having a commitment to being carbon neutral by 2025. Our Chancellor needs to reflect that history,” the Association said.
Mr Vaile’s appointment also generated backlash among university staff,prompting the resignation of Professor Jennifer Martin from the University’s council. His role was further imperilled last week when a group of 16 philanthropists and climate activists penned an open letter saying they would not financially support a university led by Mr Vaile.