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ACT Media Release: New Dean and CEO Announcement
Dr James Dalziel is the next Dean and CEO of the Australian College of Theology (ACT). The ACT is Australia’s largest theological education provider, overseeing a robust consortium of eighteen affiliated colleges.
The appointment has been made by the Board of Directors of the ACT after a pro-active international search and takes effect on 1 June 2020. Board Chair Professor Roger Lewis comments, “James combines substantial scholarship and outstanding educational experience with highly developed leadership skills and a personal commitment to Christ that ideally position him to lead the ACT”.
Dr Dalziel is currently Dean of Education at Morling College, a Professor of the University of Divinity, and a Research Fellow at Pacific Hills Christian School. Prior to these roles he was Professor of Learning Technology in the Faculty of Education at Macquarie University and Director of the Macquarie E-Learning Centre of Excellence. Before that, he was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney Institute for Teaching and Learning and a Lecturer in Psychology. Dr Dalziel is an internationally recognised expert in the field of Learning Design and educational technology, publishing in fields spanning higher education, theological education and Christian school education. He is also a TEQSA Expert.
Dr Dalziel has served as an external member of the ACT Academic Board for the past six years. “This is an excellent appointment,” said Rev Dr Brian Harris, Chair of the Academic Board. “The contribution James has made has been simply outstanding. He has shown deep understanding both of the landscape of Higher Education in Australia and of the mission of the Christian Church”.
In addition, James has experience in commercial and not-for-profit organisations at Board and CEO level, is a Member of the Australian
Psychological Society, and a lay member of Sydney Anglican Synod.
“I’m delighted to take up this important role with the ACT,” said Dr Dalziel. “The ACT has been close to my heart for many years through my work on the ACT Academic Board, and I pray I may serve God and the stakeholders of the ACT in the exciting opportunities ahead – not just in theological education, but also more broadly in Christian higher education in Australia.”
James is married to Dr Bronwen Dalziel, and they have three children. They attend All Saints North Epping Anglican Church.