Meet a Member
Each eNews, we introduce you to one of our wonderful Chapter Members. In the hot seat this edition is Susan Elijaš, Director of Communications, Avondale College
Susan Elijaš
Director of Communications
Avondale College
How long have you been working in Educational Advancement?
I come from a long line of educators, so perhaps it wasn’t surprising that I began my own career in 2000 as a teacher of English and History at Avondale College in Auckland. After a few years at home with small children, I was invited back in 2010 to “manage the new website” part-time. Since then, my role has evolved very organically – from Website Manager to Communications Manager to Communications Director – now overseeing all marketing and communications for our school, including international marketing and some travel, as well as all internal and external publications. This year, I also organised the school’s 80th Jubilee and established an alumni programme. Having been here so long, I have fingers in many pies!
So, to answer the question, I’ve been an Advancement professional for over ten years, but only relatively recently realised that this was a thing! Joining Educate Plus has been incredibly empowering – like finding my tribe!
What is the achievement you were most proud of?
Our 80th Jubilee celebrations were a real highlight this year. Starting with a non-existent alumni database made it challenging to spread the word, so when people began registering – and dropping in with memorabilia for our archives (also virtually non-existent!) – it was very exciting.
The US Consul General visited for afternoon tea to learn about the college’s origins as a US Naval Hospital during WWII. Poet Laureate Selina Tusitala Marsh gave an inspiring class to some of our priority learners; Nadia Lim came to reconnect with her Food Technology teacher; a 93-year-old Foundation pupil cut the birthday cake alongside her great-grandson, a current student; and Chief Children’s Commissioner Claire Achmad spoke at our cocktail party. Other alumni sent video messages from around the world, and thousands of our wider community enjoyed student-led performances, food trucks, and bouncy castles at our Jubilee Family Festival.
It was an incredible weekend and an amazing platform from which to expand our Comms team, launch an alumni programme, and celebrate and share the stories that connect our communities.
What is the greatest moment of learning in your career so far?
I am extremely grateful to have been supported by my school to pursue a Masters of Communication Studies at AUT (part-time) over the past four years. Having fallen into a comms role more by accident than design, I’ve been very aware that much of my work was led by intuition rather than theory. Being able to attend classes like Brand Storytelling and Digital Marketing Strategy was a huge learning opportunity. It was reassuring to discover that, in many instances, my intuition had been right on track, but I’ve also gained valuable insights that have allowed me to develop a more strategic approach to my role.
I’m now writing up my thesis, which examines what the stories of key stakeholders reveal about the culture of Avondale College. It has been a fantastic way to capture those perspectives – and is so closely aligned with my work at school. It’s due in December, so I have a busy few weeks ahead!
What is the most impactful book you’ve read or podcast you’ve listened to?
I’m constantly reading or listening to books, especially while travelling. The most memorable recent podcast would be The Fall of the Aztecs by The Rest is History, which I listened to during a two-week marketing trip in Mexico. It was fascinating to listen to a chapter and then realise I’d just been at – or near – a location they mentioned. It was such a good way to understand more about the culture and historical context of the place, and it gave me some great conversation starters with the people I was meeting!
What are three tips or words of advice you have for new members and/or those new to Advancement?
- Ask questions. I’ve found that people involved with Educate Plus are typically fantastic – and very generous – people who care deeply about their work. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with people you don’t know and ask lots of questions. I’ve learned so much from others simply sharing their experiences with me.
- Communicate enthusiastically with your Principal. I’ve found that sharing insights from Educate Plus workshops and conferences helps open up great discussions with our Senior Leadership Team and reinforces how our Advancement work supports the school’s broader vision.
- Keep an eye on the Educate Plus newsletters for online webinars and articles. These have been great sources of encouragement and inspiration for me. Sometimes you can feel isolated or overwhelmed within your own school silo – it’s worth taking a few minutes to recalibrate and gain a renewed sense of purpose through professional learning.
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy switching off by reading or pottering in the garden. I’m married to Sam – a graphic designer and musician – and we’re at the stage now where we have just one teenager living at home. Our older two are currently travelling overseas and studying jazz at university in Wellington. During school show season, you’ll find me designing and building stage sets and sewing costumes. I love any creative endeavour!
