Professional staff - from vision to action

Hundreds of staff members recently gathered to attend the annual Professional Staff Conference in Penrith, watching their colleagues showcase projects and best practices within higher education.

The theme of the 2012 Professional Staff Conference was 'Shaping the Future – from Vision to Action'.

Following the Chancellor's welcome, staff had the opportunity to hear from members of the UWS Executive on the University's overarching objectives. An inspirational address was also given by keynote speaker Janelle Davis who charted her career journey prior to and at UWS.

Presentations were delivered by 20 committed and enthusiastic staff members, willing to share stories of their successes and challenges working on initiatives at UWS.

For Timetabling Officer Lauren Turner (pictured middle) this year's conference was her first.

"It was great to see the Chancellor opening the day and speaking to professional staff about the overall plans for UWS," says Lauren.

"The conference helped me gain a new understanding of what our colleagues are working on in other areas of the University, and how we can possibly work together in the future."

Reena Dobson from the Office of People and Culture said that the conference provided a platform to learn of strategies and ideas that, without the conference, may not have the opportunity to be aired or heard.

"Overviews from DVCs and PVCs were illuminating and helpful, contextualising University objectives at the Executive level," commented Reena.

Some great prizes were donated for the conference from over 15 sponsors who also attended on the day, including iPhones, iPads, printers, gym memberships, signed cricket bats and gift vouchers.

Susan Hudson, Director of HR Strategy and Services, is particularly pleased to see the conference grow from 200 participants in the first year to 340 this year.