Fred Yasso, a prominent figure in Indigenous mental health and community health, has been appointed as the new Director of the Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS) at Curtin University.
Mr Yasso, a proud Juru man from North Queensland, has been a part of CAS since 2019, contributing in various capacities, including leadership roles.
The Centre for Aboriginal Studies, established in 1974, is a culturally safe learning environment for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and non-Indigenous students. The Centre, which maintains three Elders on staff, is also home to the culturally significant Midgegoroo meeting place, which symbolises the Aboriginal Resistance Warrior and his son, Yagan.
Notably, CAS boasts one of the highest concentration of qualified Aboriginal individuals in Australia, with over 90 percent of its staff being Indigenous.
Curtin Provost, Professor Jeremy Kilburn, highlighted Yasso's experience in implementing major teaching initiatives centered on Indigenous cultures and perspectives. He stated that this experience would be instrumental in ensuring CAS continues to uphold its commitment to Indigenous education and positive change for First Nations People.
"Fred is a leader who will foster and maintain the environment CAS is proud of - one in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and all students and staff work collaboratively to achieve excellence in learning and teaching, research, innovation, engagement and impact," Professor Kilburn said.
Mr Yasso, who holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Indigenous Community Health, expressed his enthusiasm for his new role and the opportunity to build on the Centre's history in Indigenous higher education in Australia.
"The crucial work of CAS began at Curtin in the 1970s, came to fruition with the creation of CAS in 1984, and is continuing today," Mr Yasso said.
"I am aware of the inspirational legacy of past Directors who have all contributed to the transformation of Indigenous higher education."
Mr Yasso expressed his respect for the tradition of aiding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities through higher education and research. He also voiced his excitement about the challenges of the role and his eagerness to contribute to this work.
