Richmond president John O’Rourke has today welcomed Dr Andrew Peters to the Board of the Richmond Football Club.

The Club’s nominations committee recommended that Dr Peters be appointed to fill the vacancy created when Peggy O’Neal completed her term as president. The Board unanimously endorsed the recommendation.

Dr Peters, a descendant of the Yarra Yarra, Yorta Yorta, Ngurai willum and Taungerong clans, is a lifelong Richmond supporter and long-term member. He is currently an Associate Professor of Indigenous Studies at Swinburne University.

Dr Peters led the development of Swinburne University’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and is an advisor on the Swinburne University Human Research Ethics Committee. His PhD - “Moondani Yulenj: An examination of Aboriginal culture, identity and education” – was conferred in 2017.

“Andrew has a great passion for the Richmond Football Club and is a highly experienced academic that will bring diversity and expertise to the boardroom,” President John O’Rourke said.

“He has provided invaluable advice and support as the Korin Gamadji Institute has evolved over the past decade and clearly understands the Club’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. We look forward to his contribution to the Club in the coming years.”

Dr Peters said he was humbled by the opportunity to join the Board.

“I have been a passionate Richmond supporter all my life and have been incredibly proud of what the Club has done on and off the field. Our Club is continually evolving and to be a part of that journey is very exciting,” Dr Peters said.

The Club also confirmed that Henriette Rothschild will be the new vice-president, taking over from Emmett Dunne.

“First and foremost, it is important to recognise the wonderful job Emmett did as vice-president,” O’Rourke said.

“Emmett felt the time was right to make a change. In doing so, he has agreed to take on the important role of Chair of the Risk, Compliance & Integrity Committee.

“His experience is invaluable. For those that know him, it will come as no surprise that he has made a selfless decision in the best interests of the Club.

“Henriette is a highly experienced board member who has been a wonderful contributor since becoming a Club director in 2017. She will do a terrific job as Club vice-president while also retaining her role as Chair of the Governance and Remuneration Committee.”