Professor Colin Mackerras was the foundation Deputy Chairman of the School of Modern Asian Studies at Griffith University. Professor Mackerras was a strong supporter of this pioneering School, so much so that he actually started planning course structure and teaching practices before he was even officially appointed to the position of Deputy Chair. Professor Mackerras was also heavily involved in the early development and facilitation of student exchange programs with Asian Universities. Continuing to build Griffith's relationships with Asian neighbours is one of many roles he continues to passionately undertake for the organisation to this day.