Reimagining HigherEd

Dr. Ronald S. Rochon, President, California State University Fullerton

Dr. Ronald Rochon, President of California State University Fullerton, joins Prof Judyth Sachs for this enriching conversation. The two leaders discuss fostering environments where students are encouraged to engage with diverse communities, embrace discomfort, and build their capabilities. Dr. Rochon provides insight into the Cal State Fullerton student experience and the university’s commitment to celebrating different identities and perspectives.

Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar, President, University of Lynchburg

Join Professor Judyth Sachs for an insightful conversation with Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar, the first woman and first foreign-born president of the University of Lynchburg. The two leaders discuss mentorship and determination, empowering students with purpose and belonging, leading through change, and Alison’s top three guiding books for navigating the complexities of higher education leadership.

Professor Jennifer Barrett, Pro Vice Chancellor Indigenous (Academic), University of Sydney on Reconciliation in Higher Education

Around 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.
In this third interview of the series, Prof Sachs speaks with her former colleague and current friend, Prof Jennifer Barrett, discussing her role as the interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Strategy and Services, as well as the PVC Indigenous (Academic) at the University of Sydney.
Prof Barrett shares her thoughts on the importance of education, research, and student inclusion in the university's reconciliation efforts, as well as the need for strong Indigenous leadership. She outlines the university's plans to celebrate NAIDOC Week, including a new NAIDOC Ball organised by students.
Prof Barrett also emphasises the interdisciplinary and cross-cutting nature of 'reconciliation' as it occurs within higher education, and the challenges of driving change within the university's structures, silos, and disciplines.

LIVE RECORDING: New Zealand Perspectives on GenAI in Higher Education - a 'Students First' Symposium

This timely discussion explored the evolving landscape of generative AI within New Zealand's higher education sector, focusing on how institutions can navigate its opportunities and challenges, while maintaining degree integrity, data security, and a focus on student success and wellbeing.
Your panel:
Prof Catherine Moran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, University of Canterbury
Prof Naomi Cogger, Strategic Lead - GenAI Engagement, Massey University
Prof Martin Carroll, Deputy Chief Executive Academic, Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec
Luc MacKay, President, University of Canterbury Student Association (UCSA)
And Chaired by Prof 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.

Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive, Universities UK

This week, join Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive of Universities UK, and guest host Professor Petra Wend as they discuss the challenges facing the higher ed sector, including financial sustainability and the evolving landscape of mass university participation; universities leading the way in individualised support and student success; and the importance of having clear purpose and not losing sight of the end game.

Dr. Marc Poulin, Acting President, Abu Dhabi School of Management; Acting CEO, UAE Academy

Dr. Marc Poulin, Acting President of Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) and the UAE Academy joins our host this week, Dr. Ashraf Mahate. They discuss sparking student interest with practical, scenario-based teaching and industry partnerships; advocating for a principles-based approach to AI and equipping faculty and students with the right skills; and Dr. Poulin shares his advice from personal experience, on nurturing grit and drive, and the dangers of wasted time.

Dr. Kyle Long, President, American University in Dubai (AUD)

Dr. Kyle Long, President of the American University in Dubai (AUD), sits down with host Dr. Ashraf Mahate this week.
They discuss:
Dr. Long's experiences studying abroad and establishing a university in Iraq, and the impact these have had on his leadership approach and educational philosophy
AUD's commitment to student success, and plans to integrate adaptive learning technologies into teaching, while preserving the value of critical thinking and human discussion
The challenges of leading an established institution while embracing innovation and change in this digital age. 

Charlene Davison, CEO of the GO Foundation - on Reconciliation in Higher Education

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.
 

LIVE recording: Beyond orientation: Supporting First Year Success - a 'Students First' Symposium

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:
Professor Sally Kift, President of the Australian Learning and Teaching Fellows (ALTF), Adjunct Professor JCU, La Trobe, QUT
Professor Ryan Naylor, Professor of Higher Education , the University of Sydney
Sarah Bendall, First Assistant Ombudsman, National Student Ombudsman (NSO)
Watch the recording on video here: https://vimeo.com/1084234254?share=copy. 

Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Executive Director, Higher Education Commission, Pakistan

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.