Lincoln Institute of Health Sciences

I’m Jenny Graham.

I graduated in Occupational Therapy (OT) in Sydney in 1972, was involved in designing the first OT degree program in NSW in 1974, and in late in 1978 extended my experience to clinical management roles in England and postgraduate studies. I returned to Australia (Melbourne) in 1982 as Head, School of OT at Lincoln Institute of Health Sciences. 

Lincoln Institute was unique due to the enabling leadership of Bernard Rechter.  I learned so much as a member of his Senior Executive Team, Chair Academic Board, Acting Director on occasions, and as a member of the steering group that negotiated the voluntary amalgamation with La Trobe University. The opportunities afforded me were second to none. They underpinned my advancement to Professor, Dean and Pro Vice Chancellor at the University of Newcastle, and thereafter Southern Cross University. If it hadn’t been for Bernard, I wouldn’t be Professor Emeritus (Jenny Graham) and still active in Higher Education Governance roles.

Bernard was one of a kind … warm and sensitive, a remarkable leader, and a passionate advocate for the role of education in enabling an inclusive society. I try to emulate his passion, integrity, and his empathy in all that I do.