From the Chapter President

As we begin the 2025 Academic Year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the energy and dedication that defines our community. 

In 2024, Our NSW/ACT Chapter saw strong growth, with a 7% increase in membership, closing the year with 674 members. Over 100 NSW/ACT members attended the International Conference in Perth and we hosted 16 events, engaging 404 attendees, reinforcing our commitment to professional development and community connection.  

Our Planning Day at Redlands was a fantastic way to end the year. Coming together as a Committee, we mapped out a full calendar of events designed to inspire, connect, and educate our NSW/ACT Advancement professionals. The collaboration and enthusiasm in the room reaffirmed just how committed we are to supporting one another and driving excellence in our sector. 

This year as an organisation, we have a strong focus on growing our People & Culture pillar and I encourage you to share the benefits of Educate Plus with the People & Culture colleagues in your institutions and encourage them to become a member. 

We’re starting the year strong with eight simultaneous Coffee Catch-Up events across Sydney and the regions, ensuring that no matter where you are, there’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and share insights. 

Our Special Interest Groups (SIGs) will take learning to the next level this year, bringing together multiple pillars of Advancement with expanded networking opportunities—because we know that some of the best ideas come from informal conversations with colleagues. I’m excited to share details about our first SIGs event, which will take place on Thursday 3 April at St Andrew’s College. This event will feature three concurrent SIG sessions focused on Fundraising, Alumni & Community Relations and People & Culture. Following the sessions, all attendees will come together for networking drinks, providing a great opportunity to connect across different focus areas. 

Looking ahead, our October Summit is shaping up to be our biggest yet! We want to make it as valuable as possible, so tell us—what topics, speakers, or sessions would you love to see? Your input will help shape an event that meets the evolving needs of our community. (Please CLICK HERE to complete the Pre-Summit Planning Survey)

I’m looking forward to an incredible year ahead and can’t wait to see you at one of our many events. 

Yvette Graniero 
Educate Plus Chapter President | NSW/ACT Chapter 

Director of Community Relations
Santa Sabina College
e: y.graniero@ssc.nsw.edu.au