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Aurora: Igniting women's leadership in higher education

09 Sep 2024 | Advance HE An in-person event for participants to launch the pilot program of Aurora in Australia.

In a landmark initiative, Advance HE has successfully launched the first pilot of Aurora in Australia.  

Aurora is a leadership program designed to empower women in higher education to achieve their career aspirations. The event began in Perth with a Champions and Mentors Day, setting the stage for the Adaptive Leadership Module with over 50 participants from six higher education institutions: Curtin University, the University of Western Australia, University of Notre Dame, Monash University, Edith Cowan University and Murdoch University. 

Aurorans listening to Jennief Witheriff at the Aurora Australia event in Perth
Participants at the Aurora Australia event in Perth
Women at the Aurora Australia event in Perth
Women at the Aurora Australia event in Perth
Women at the Aurora Australia event in Perth
Women at the Aurora Australia event in Perth

The success of this pilot has paved the way for a national rollout, with program dates expected to be announced soon for early 2025. 

The Aurora program is a unique collaboration among leadership experts, higher education providers and research institutes aimed at fostering a supportive community and offering mentorship. Aurora equips women with the essential tools, confidence and core leadership skills needed to excel in leadership positions, thus promoting gender parity within the higher education sector. 

A community of support 

One of the standout features of Aurora is the lasting community it creates among its participants.  

Women who join Aurora continue to receive support and inspiration from fellow Aurorans throughout their leadership journeys and beyond. This vibrant network serves as a valuable resource, encouraging continuous growth and collaboration. 

Who can benefit from Aurora? 

Aurora is tailored for women up to senior lecturer level or the professional services equivalent, working in universities, colleges or related organizations. It's particularly beneficial for those who are keen to develop and explore leadership roles and responsibilities.  

Whether participants have recently stepped into their first leadership role or are aspiring to advance their careers, Aurora provides the necessary support and resources for success. 

Meet the facilitators 

Jennifer Witheriff

Jennifer Witheriff, the Director and Co-owner of GJR Consulting, brings a wealth of experience in organisational and leadership development, executive coaching, training, and facilitation. 

Her extensive background in higher education and the government sectors enriches the Aurora program with practical insights and effective strategies, empowering women to navigate their careers successfully. 

Jennifer Witheriff

Polly Parker

Polly Parker, a Professor Emerita at the University of Queensland.  

As a Principal Fellow and a former Academic Dean she understands the complexity of tertiary education. She has a PhD (Auckland) in career management and integrates her academic experience with her expertise in leadership development and a background in international gymnastics and counselling. Her depth and breadth of experience, makes her an invaluable asset to Aurora. 

  

Professor Polly Parker
Professor Polly Parker in action at the Aurora event in Perth
Professor Polly Parker in action at the Aurora event in Perth
Jennifer Witheriff in action at the Aurora event in Perth
Jennifer Witheriff in action at the Aurora event in Perth

Join the movement 

Aurora is set to make a significant impact on women's leadership in higher education, fostering a supportive and dynamic community poised to drive positive change. 

Aurora is more than just a program; it's a movement dedicated to achieving equitable representation and leadership excellence for women in higher education.  

If you're interested in being part of the Aurora Australia National Program, we invite you to register your interest. By doing so, you'll receive further information on how to participate in this transformative initiative. 

Register Your Interest 

 

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