Exciting opportunity – become a student member of the Academic Board

The Academic Board of the University of Divinity will soon call for the election of two student members – one student in a coursework program, one student in a research degree.

The Academic Board, which meets six times each year, has oversight of the University’s academic programs and policies, and its business includes the development and review of courses.

This is an exciting opportunity to participate in the academic decision-making of the University and to gain experience in University governance. It also provides a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the quality of the student learning experience offered at the University of Divinity.

Each student member is a member in their own right, not a student representative. This means that their contributions to the Academic Board discussions and deliberations need not attempt to represent all students. Comprehensive papers are sent out in advance and there are opportunities for discussion and questions during each meeting. Student members are asked to read and consider board papers, to facilitate meaningful participation in the meetings.

Amanda Smith is the outgoing Academic Board research student member (concluding her term at the end of 2018). About her experience, Amanda said:

Being a student member of the Academic Board has been a very satisfying experience, particularly getting a bit more involved in some of the issues I thought particularly important.

A highlight of the AB year is ‘signing off’ on the awarding of diplomas and degrees after reviewing the recommendations from each college. While this could be seen as a ‘rubber stamp’, it is an important part of the AB’s role in quality assurance, and recognition of the hard work of students who have completed the formal requirements for their course of study/research and their award.  And it’s particularly satisfying that there are students around the table to contribute to all the work of the Academic Board.

Students will receive an email from the Office of the Vice-Chancellor in October, inviting nominations to be elected as a student member of the Academic Board. Video conference facilities are available, so students from interstate campuses are welcome to nominate.

How to nominate

Nominations open Monday 8 October 2018 and close at 5pm on Monday 22 October 2018. Candidates may nominate themselves for election.

All candidates must provide the following material by the closing date for nominations:

1. The candidate’s full name and home College
2. A statement of support from another student eligible to vote in the election (up to 200 words)
3. A covering statement (up to 300 words) suitable for public circulation stating the candidate’s interest in the role and any relevant skills, experience or attributes

In the event that there is more than one nomination, an election will be held on Monday 29 October 2018 by electronic ballot. All currently enrolled research students are eligible to stand for nomination and to vote in the election. The list of nominees will be provided to research students on Thursday 25 October 2018, three days’ prior to the election.

Please send your nominations and all required documentation to Anjali Antoniotti at aantoniotti@divinity.edu.au by 5pm on Monday 22 October 2018.

Are you considering nominating to be a student member, but would like to talk to someone?

Amanda Smith, the outgoing research student member, is happy to be contacted by potential nominees. If you would like to talk with Amanda, please email the University’s Office of the Vice-Chancellor at enquiries@divinity.edu.au and we will put you in contact with her.