The vice-chancellor and chief executive of an Australian university has resigned but will defend charges against her, according to her former employer.
Key points:
- Brigid Heywood is accused of assaulting a 16-year-old girl in Armidale in March
- She has resigned as vice-chancellor of the University of New England
- The resignation follows pressure from the National Tertiary Education Union
Brigid Heywood had been with the University of New England, based in Armidale in regional New South Wales, for three years before she was formally charged on Monday.
Police allege Professor Heywood assaulted a 16-year-old girl at a licensed venue in Armidale in March and that the teenager was not physically injured.
In addition to one charge of common assault, Professor Heywood has also been charged with behaving in an offensive manner near a public place or school.
In a statement, University of New England chancellor James Harris said Professor Heywood “strenuously denies there is any truth to the charges and will defend them.”
The National Tertiary Education Union had called for Professor Heywood to stand down while the matter was before the court.
“Professor Heywood and the University Council acknowledges the deep hurt felt by many on hearing of the charges and thanks the community for the patience shown as we worked through these matters,” Mr Harris said in his statement.
“The University Council wants to clearly state that it remains deeply committed to fostering a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for its students, staff and community at all times.”
Professor Heywood is due to face an Armidale court on September 26.
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