Wow, how do I even begin to wrap up the last 3 days at the Association for Tertiary Education Management conference?

I LOVED having the role of Conference Catalyst (so good!) and wanted to shine the light on some learning moments.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list (I don't have 30,000 words to play with on LinkedIn!).

🟡 Kate Gorman reminded us all that “happy staff = happy students,” and how reducing friction in the customer experience makes students feel comfortable enough to engage. Her point about answering the unasked questions really struck a chord.

✂️ Fiona Margetts GAICD, MPM had us getting creative, crafting collages to tackle complex challenges. Can’t wait to dive into her research on "Absurd policy", so good! (I know a few absurd policies...)

🖥️ Al Briggs blew my mind with a 10-minute Adobe Express tutorial—downloaded the app, built a purpose-driven website, and it actually looks great. Quick, intuitive, and powerful!

🚀 Mark Hatwell got me thinking about building Communities of Practice and different methodologies (even just building an email list with a member database). I’m inspired to create a quick Loom video for onboarding new members in The Flipchart (a global community of 2700+ people working to stamp out boring workshops for good!).

🦸 Yue Lin S. took us on a journey through the multiverse of risk, with Marvel references woven in! She unpacked the upstream/downstream approach to risk management and who’s accountable (vs. who has to deal with the risk).

🌍 Dr. Lok Boon Thian shared an inspiring example from Taylor’s University with their motto, “The best university FOR the world,” and how they’re embedding social innovation into their curriculum. Such a powerful approach.

Martin McCarron emphasised the importance of moving quickly when creating a student experience vision—momentum is key!

💡 Debbie Haski-Leventhal l had us all reflecting on our "I will..." statements, challenging us to define our commitments and aspirations.

🎓 Dr. Timothy M. Renick blew us away with the transformative change they've created at Georgia State—an incredible case study in what’s possible with the right vision and action.

Dr Josie McLean shared the power of turning your purpose into a question, not a statement. A question invites dialogue and co-creation—such a simple, yet profound shift.

Behind the scenes, the ATEM organising committee were simply incredible. They thought of everything, from great walks around Brisbane to a bingo sheet and welcome drinks for first-timers.

Truly a class act in curating a fantastic experience for all. I can't wait to chat with Mary-Louise (ML) Huppatz on the podcast, and capture some of the reflections from the last three days. Great to work with you behind the scenes too, Dr Timothy Smith!

#ATEM24

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