Janet graduated with a Master of Vocational Education (with Honours) from UNE in 2003. She became a committee member in 2005-06, going on to serve as secretary from 2007-08 through to 2022, when she took up the treasurer position.
“Janet has been our guiding light,” said SACUNE President Grace Taylor. “She has made an outstanding contribution as secretary and treasurer, bringing leadership insight to all that we do, from welcoming and cultivating committee members and keeping our scholarships in order, to updating our charter and having oversight of our funds. Janet has also been the brains behind some of our fantastic field trips.”
The SACUNE group organise a range of activities and events providing opportunities for the group to forge long-lasting friendships. Here is the group on the fossil dig on Kangaroo Island in 2018.
Janet said the friendship shown by other alumni has been a driving force for her involvement in the committee. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to become acquainted with some outstanding South Australians and I have had the pleasure of meeting many of our scholarship recipients,” she said.
Completing her Masters at UNE offered both an introduction to research and the chance for Janet to grow in academic confidence. She was already managing the TAFE program in remote Aboriginal communities in the APY Lands and later went on to undertake a PhD at Charles Darwin University. Research into workforce development for Anangu people has been Janet’s focus ever since and she is currently working on a project with five Aboriginal organisations to improve employment and educational practices.
“I have made great friends through SACUNE and will continue to attend events when I can,” Janet said. “I recommend anyone considering taking on a committee role to put their hand up and, of course, graduates join the chapter.”
The SACUNE group on a trip the Riverland in 2023.
If you would like to find out more how you can join the South Australian chapter of the UNE Alumni Association (SACUNE) , please contact Alumni Relations via alumni@une.edu.au.
