Rate My Professor Carol Forbes

Carol Forbes serves as Specialist Academic Committees and Services in the Division of Humanities at the University of Otago, a role embedded within the division and part of the broader Academic Committees and Services team reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) office. Originally from Matamata in the Waikato region, she holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree from the University of Waikato. She moved to Dunedin in 2001 and began her employment at the University of Otago a couple of years later, marking over 22 years of service by 2025. Throughout her career, Forbes has progressed through several key administrative positions within the Division of Humanities, including Executive Assistant to the Dean of Social Sciences, administrator in the Department of Politics, and Academic Manager for the division prior to her current appointment. Her extensive experience has equipped her with deep institutional insight and expertise in academic governance and administration.

In her current capacity, Carol Forbes plays a pivotal role in supporting the academic lifecycle within the Division of Humanities. She advises on and prepares academic proposals, services critical committees such as the Humanities Divisional Board, Humanities Academic Committee, Humanities Graduate Studies Committee, and Quality Advancement Committee, and acts as committee administrator where required. She handles course variations for Humanities programmes, assists with annual reporting, Graduate Year Reports, and external moderation processes. As a member of a team of six specialists—five embedded in academic divisions and one central—Forbes is instrumental in facilitating large-scale curriculum changes, degree restructurings, and strategic academic developments, often providing leadership during challenging periods. Her contributions extend to offering personal support to staff and their families, earning widespread acclaim for her professionalism, kindness, and administrative innovation. This outstanding performance culminated in her receiving the Vice-Chancellor's Award for Exceptional Performance by Professional Staff in 2025, the highest honor among up to four such annual awards. Endorsements from academic leaders described her as a 'cornerstone of the Division,' noting her 'transformative impact,' 'unwavering support,' and ability to navigate complex situations effectively. Forbes expressed humility upon receiving the award, highlighting its meaningful affirmation of her daily efforts.