- Posted on 2 Nov 2026
- 2-minute read
NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan has appointed UTS alumnus Kurt Cheng to the university’s Council.
Mr Cheng is returning to the university's council after previously serving as its elected undergraduate member from 2022 to 2024. Mr Cheng is one of two ministerial appointments to the UTS Council.
He takes up his position on 1 November 2026, replacing Dr Sue Barrell AO, who has been a Council member since 2018.
The Hon Steve Whan MP said, “I’m pleased to appoint Kurt Cheng to the UTS Council.
“Kurt has already made a significant contribution to UTS. As a young alumnus, he brings valuable experience, diverse perspectives and a strong commitment to ensuring opportunity through education.
“I’m confident Kurt will be a valuable addition to the Council as UTS continues its important role in delivering the skills, research and graduates that help drive NSW forward.”
Mr Cheng said of his appointment, “The enduring strength of UTS lies in its people and their aspirations. I look forward to helping ensure the university remains strong, resilient and sustainable for future generations of students, staff and alumni.”
Chancellor Michael Rose AM said, “Kurt has always been a passionate member of the UTS community, contributing to many aspects of the university. I warmly welcome him back to the Council.
“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank Sue for the important contribution she has made to UTS and the significant expertise and experience she has brought to the council.”
Mr Cheng graduated from UTS with a Bachelor of Communication (Social and Political Sciences) and Bachelor of Laws and served on Council as an undergraduate representative from 2022 to 2024. He held a number of university governance and student leadership roles, including three terms on the UTS Academic Board, and was named Law Student of the Year at the 2023 Australian Law Awards.