Emma Szczotko elected first female Chair of Emmanuel College

The Emmanuel College Board has announced the appointment of Emma Szczotko as the first female Chair of Emmanuel College in its 112-year history, taking over from Stephen Howell.

Emma is an alumna of Emmanuel College (2011 to 2013) and joined the board in 2019. She has a breadth of experience in law, corporate governance, strategy and risk management across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Emma is currently Director, Strategy & Governance within Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training. 

Whilst attending Emmanuel, Emma was heavily involved in college life, leading and participating in a range of cultural, sporting and community initiatives. Emma is passionate about the value of education and fostering equity and inclusion.

After 16 years, first as a council member, and then Chairman of the Emmanuel College Board, Stephen Howell has reached the end of his term and stepped down at the first Board meeting for 2024, in February.

“Stephen has been a true servant of the College and having been on the governing body during the terms of four principals, has been instrumental in steering the College through challenging and exciting times,” Principal Stephen Peake said.

“As Chair, he has been watchful and creative in guiding the College into contemporary governance approaches, always with a focus on the well-being of, and positive college experience for our residents. His unique perspectives and extensive experience have made a significant difference to the way our college functions and has positioned us strongly for the
future,” he said.

The Emmanuel College Board also recently welcomed Rowan Salt to the College Board in February 2024, as The University of Queensland Senate appointee. Rowan brings experience in strategic planning and oversight from senior roles in both government and private sector within Queensland, and is the University of Queensland’s Chief Information Officer, responsible for technology across UQ.