In recognition of Judith Whelan‘s trailblazing service to journalism, and to continue her legacy of lifting future women leaders, the ABC, The Sydney Morning Herald and the University of Sydney have come together to create the annual Judith Whelan Leadership Fellowship.
Judith Whelan made a tremendous contribution to the Australian media before her death from cancer in 2024. She worked at the ABC from 2016 as one of its most senior executives, as Director of the Regional and Local division and then as Editorial Director.
Prior to that, her career included Editor and News Director of the Herald, as well as seven years running the highly regarded Good Weekend magazine.
Judith studied at the University of Sydney and was the first female president of its Union.
Each year the ABC and the Herald will each select a candidate to participate in the Sydney Leadership Accelerator Program run by the University to help both new and experienced managers to lead with confidence and transition into more senior roles. Fellowship recipients will also have the opportunity to select an additional short course of their choice.
Then the ABC and the Herald, in conjunction with the Judith Whelan Fellowship Committee, will also nominate a minimum of two women leaders to provide mentorship and guidance to the successful candidates during the 12-month Fellowship.
Chris Henning, Judith’s husband, said:
“Three institutions which she served and for which she had the greatest respect coming together in her name to foster the talents of young women in journalism, the industry she loved most – that is a fantastic initiative.
“I know she would have been pleased and so proud.”
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks said:
“Judith Whelan was an extraordinary leader at the ABC whose commitment and vision helped shape and strengthen our regional and rural services in lasting ways. Her absence is felt keenly by those who had the privilege of working with her.
“This Fellowship is a deeply meaningful tribute to Judith’s life and legacy — supporting and inspiring the next generation of women in journalism across the organisations that meant so much to her.”
The Sydney Morning Herald Editor Jordan Baker said:
“Judith was a highly respected and much-loved colleague of many at the Herald. As just the second female to edit the masthead she was an inspiration to many women in our industry and this initiative is a wonderful way to honour her legacy.”
And, Professor Mark Scott, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Sydney added:
“During her time at the University of Sydney Judith threw herself into campus life and student politics with her trademark energy and enthusiasm, becoming the first woman to lead the University of Sydney Union.
“As a journalist and editor she combined sharp news instincts with an appreciation and flair for stories that offered entertainment and insight as well as information. We’re proud to support this Fellowship which celebrates her legacy as a mentor and inspiration to so many.”
The founding Judith Whelan Fellowship Committee comprises Chris Henning, Lee Glendinning, the ABC Head of Digital and National News; Monique Farmer, the National Managing Editor The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age; Clare Masters, Executive Director of Public Affairs, University of Sydney and former Herald Editor Lisa Davies.