In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2025, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work.

This second interview of the series is with the delightful Charlene Davison, CEO of the GO Foundation. Charlene discusses her own career journey, the history and mission of the GO Foundation in providing education scholarships and support to Indigenous students, and her views on the importance of reconciliation in Australia.

She emphasises the need for truth-telling, respect, trust, and empathy in the reconciliation process, and the responsibility of all organisations to engage with reconciliation. Charlene also highlights the role of Indigenous-led organisations in driving reconciliation efforts at the community, state, and national levels.

On 14 May 2025 this panel came together to discuss how higher education institutions can equitably improve student outcomes, engagement, and sense of belonging - from day one to year one, and beyond. In this first 2025 Symposium, your panel explored the evolving needs and expectations of first-year students, drawing on data, lived experiences, and frontline practice.

Chaired by Professor Judyth Sachs, former PVC Learning and Teaching at The University of Sydney, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost at Macquarie University, and now Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

Your panel:

Watch the recording on video here: https://vimeo.com/1084234254?share=copy. 

Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan, joins host Professor Cliff Allan this week.

As a leader, Dr. Zia has focused on enabling and facilitating universities through policy interventions, and expanding access and equity in higher education, particularly for marginalised communities and female students. Listen in to hear Dr. Zia discuss the truly transformative power of higher education in driving societal and economic progress in Pakistan, and the importance of embracing AI technology and collaboration to achieve this vision.

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2025, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work.

First up: Nathan Towney, Deputy Vice Chancellor Equity and Engagement at the University of Newcastle, discusses his career journey, and his four-pillar approach to driving an Indigenous strategy across the university:

Nathan emphasises the importance of building strong relationships and modelling the desired behaviours to achieve collective impact, rather than focusing solely on the term "reconciliation".

Prof George Williams AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University speaks with Prof Judyth Sachs about the early life experiences that shaped his appreciation for education and commitment to creating a more equitable higher education sector.

Also discussed in this chat:

How WSU is improving the student experience, addressing issues like food insecurity, and using data and partnerships to better support student retention

The need to rethink teaching models and delivery to better serve the evolving needs of a diverse student population and Western Sydney region

Optimism about the future: Prof Williams' hope for positive changes in government policy to support students.

Dr. Susan Edwards, President of Wright State University joins Prof Judyth Sachs this week, to reimagine higher education. Listen in as they discuss:

The importance of accessible, affordable education and the deep commitment Sue has to supporting students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds

Insights on the future of higher ed, advocating for more flexible, stackable credentials, closer partnerships with business, and the integration of AI technologies across disciplines

The value of embracing failure, leaning into fear, and leading by example, drawing from her own experiences as a lifelong learner and leader.

Dr. Graham Carr, President and Vice-Chancellor of Concordia University joins host Dr. Noreen Golfman for this week’s conversation.

Together they discuss:

Challenges and opportunities of transitioning from faculty to university leadership

Facilitating work-integrated learning, and leveraging AI technology to enhance the student experience and prepare graduates

The need for universities to be more responsive to societal changes, while preserving the core values that are integral to higher education.

Professor Neil Quigley, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waikato joins host Professor Judyth Sachs for this week’s conversation.

Neil shares the challenges of leading a university today, particularly adapting to AI technology and its impact on assessment and learning; how the University of Waikato is integrating different cultural perspectives, emphasising support for learner success, and ensuring every graduate is prepared with work-integrated learning; and how learning new languages - Vietnamese and Te reo Māori - improved his listening skills and shaped his leadership journey.

Join Professor Damon Salesa, Vice-Chancellor of Auckland University of Technology (AUT) in conversation with Professor Judyth Sachs about the importance of curiosity and humility in learning, the role of history in understanding the present, and the challenges facing higher education today.

In this episode:

As the first Pasifika Vice-Chancellor in New Zealand, Damon shares his perspective on the responsibilities that come with this, and the need to consider the broader societal implications of such milestones.

The increasing need for universities to provide a place of social cohesion and connectedness, for growing and supporting the development of well-rounded citizens capable of engaging with complex, contested ideas.

Equipping students with the essential skills for university success, including self-awareness and becoming self-directed learners, and the strong commitment AUT has to educational opportunity and student support.

Dr. Deborah MacLatchy, President of Wilfrid Laurier University, joins Dr. Noreen Golfman this week to reflect on the student experience, noting increased engagement and advocacy by today’s students, alongside greater challenges with financial pressures and uncertainty about the future.

Also in this episode: