Ministry of Justice official and former police officer Dave Miller has been announced as the university’s new proctor.
Miller is to replace Simon Thompson, who held the position for 15 years and retired on 25 September. Miller will begin his tenure on 28 October.
Miller, who is finishing up in his position as Otago/South Canterbury courts service delivery manager, considers himself “very connected with Dunedin and Otago”.
His long police career, includes being a part of the Armed Offenders Squad, during which time he was called to the Aramoana massacre. He was also a police dog handler during the student riots of 1990.
Miller says he took the role as he hopes to “make the university a great place” by ensuring students “are in a safe and secure learning environment”.
He said his “ability to work with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds” is a “key part of policing”. He said the “communication and leadership skills” he learned with the force will help in his role as the proctor.
In a University of Otago press release, Vice-Chancellor Harlene Hayne said she is “delighted that someone of Mr Miller’s calibre and experience will take up this important position in the University community”.
Acting OUSA President Isaac Yu said the proctor has an “incredibly important role as they serve in a pastoral care role from the point of view of the university”.
“In a perfect world,” said Yu, the proctor “would be someone who is seen as tough but fair and someone who ultimately has the students’ best interests at heart when it comes to managing issues.”