Terms of Reference - UNE SAGE Athena Swan Steering Group

Section 1 - Overview

Objectives

The Steering Group is established to provide strategic oversight and guidance for the University of New England's (UNE) Athena Swan initiative. The group will ensure that the self-assessment process is  conducted effectively, that the action plan is developed and implemented in alignment with the Athena Swan framework, and that the institution's commitment to gender equity, diversity, and inclusion (GEDI) is upheld throughout the project lifecycle.

Section 2 - Team membership

The Steering Group will comprise:

• Executive Dean, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law (Chair)
• Chief Operating Officer
• Executive Dean, Faculty of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education
• Acting Executive Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Health
• Academic Lead, Athena Swan
• Academic Representatives from ERS school-level Equity Committee (x3)

Secretariat

The Project Officer, Athena Swan, provides secretariat support to the Steering Group.

Section 3 - Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Steering Group are to:

• Provide strategic direction and oversight for the Athena Swan self-assessment and action planning process.
• Review and approve nominations for Self-Assessment Team (SAT) members.
• Review and approve process of data collection and analysis.
• Report progress to the Vice-Chancellor and the Senior Executive Team.

Section 4 - Governance and Reporting

Reporting

The Chair will provide regular progress report to Vice-Chancellor as Executive Sponsor.

Meetings

Meetings will be held as needed, with a minimum expectation of quarterly meetings to review progress and address any emerging issues related to the Athena Swan initiative.

Review

The Steering Group will conduct an annual review of its governance, practices, and procedures during one meeting each 12-month period.