Massey chancellor elected
Massey University has chosen a new chancellor following the resignation of former leader Chris Kelly, who stepped down after receiving widespread condemnation for his comments about female vets.
The university announced on Friday Michael Ahie, pro chancellor of the Massey University Council, will take over the position.
Kelly resigned from the position earlier this week after coming under fire for comments he made about female vet graduates were worth just ‘‘twofifths’’ of a full-time equivalent male vet.
Kelly issued an apology and a retraction after the comments were picked up by national media, but resigned a day later.
‘‘Having had time to carefully consider the views of many staff, students and stakeholders, I believe that it is in the interests of the university that I step aside,’’ he said.
Ahie was voted into the new position by the Massey University Council in an election on Thursday.
Ahie joined the Massey University Council in December 2012 as an appointee of the Minister of Tertiary Education and has been pro chancellor (deputy chair) since December 2013.
Ahie said he it was an honour to take up the position as chancellor.
‘‘I am looking forward to working with staff, students, my fellow council members and all the many supporters and alumni of the university.
‘‘I feel proud and thankful for the opportunity we have ahead of us. I am sure 2017 will be another successful year for Massey.’’
Ahie lives in Wellington. He is chairman of the Plant and Food Research board of directors, the Food Safety Assurance Advisory Council, Complywith NZ Ltd and the Plant Market Access Council.