Vale Jenny Dowell OAM - Southern Cross University
Source: https://www.scu.edu.au/news/2026/vale-jenny-dowell-oam
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:09
Vale Jenny Dowell OAM - Southern Cross University
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Vale Jenny Dowell OAM
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Published
24 March 2026
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Jenny Dowell OAM
A message from Professor Tyrone M Carlin.
Today, we honour the life and legacy of Jenny Dowell OAM, a deeply valued member of our Southern Cross University community, who has passed away following a brave battle with cancer.
Jenny’s contribution to the Lismore and Northern Rivers communities was extraordinary. As Mayor of Lismore for eight years, she led with integrity, care and a deep sense of responsibility to the people she served. She was a thoughtful and principled leader, and a tireless advocate for equity, inclusion and community connection.
Her commitment to service was lifelong. Before entering public office, Jenny spent 35 years in education, working as a teacher of deaf children and as a lecturer in speech and language development – work that speaks to her belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Southern Cross University held a special place in Jenny’s life. She and her family made Lismore their home in 1991 when her husband, Ron, joined the University as a lecturer. Over the years, Jenny remained closely connected to our community, and in 2017 we were proud to award her an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of her outstanding service and enduring contribution to public life.
Jenny exemplified a life of service – thoughtful, generous and deeply grounded in community. She brought people together, listened carefully, and led with both conviction and compassion.
She will be greatly missed by many across our University and the wider region. On behalf of Southern Cross University, I extend my sincere condolences to Jenny’s family, friends and all those whose lives she touched. Her legacy will continue to shape this community for years to come.
Professor Tyrone M Carlin
Vice-Chancellor and President
Southern Cross University
View all news
Vale Jenny Dowell OAM
Categories
University News
Other
Published
24 March 2026
Share
Jenny Dowell OAM
A message from Professor Tyrone M Carlin.
Today, we honour the life and legacy of Jenny Dowell OAM, a deeply valued member of our Southern Cross University community, who has passed away following a brave battle with cancer.
Jenny’s contribution to the Lismore and Northern Rivers communities was extraordinary. As Mayor of Lismore for eight years, she led with integrity, care and a deep sense of responsibility to the people she served. She was a thoughtful and principled leader, and a tireless advocate for equity, inclusion and community connection.
Her commitment to service was lifelong. Before entering public office, Jenny spent 35 years in education, working as a teacher of deaf children and as a lecturer in speech and language development – work that speaks to her belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Southern Cross University held a special place in Jenny’s life. She and her family made Lismore their home in 1991 when her husband, Ron, joined the University as a lecturer. Over the years, Jenny remained closely connected to our community, and in 2017 we were proud to award her an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of her outstanding service and enduring contribution to public life.
Jenny exemplified a life of service – thoughtful, generous and deeply grounded in community. She brought people together, listened carefully, and led with both conviction and compassion.
She will be greatly missed by many across our University and the wider region. On behalf of Southern Cross University, I extend my sincere condolences to Jenny’s family, friends and all those whose lives she touched. Her legacy will continue to shape this community for years to come.
Professor Tyrone M Carlin
Vice-Chancellor and President
Southern Cross University