LIVE RECORDING: Thriving in uncertain times: Student Wellbeing and AI - a 'Students First' Symposium

Prof Michael Donovan - Pro Vice Chancellor Indigenous at La Trobe University - on Reconciliation in Higher Education

In this special episode of the Reimagining Higher Education podcast, Prof Judyth Sachs sits down with Prof Michael Donovan, a Gumbaynggir man and Pro Vice Chancellor (Indigenous) at La Trobe University, to explore the intersection of Indigenous knowledges and academic practice.    Drawing on his diverse background as a nurse, teacher, and Fulbright Schola, Prof Donovan discusses moving beyond trying to 'crowbar' Indigenous content into the curriculum, advocating instead for a relational pedagogy that aligns Indigenous understandings with core disciplinary concepts. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic Indigenous governance and the necessity of "walking the walk" - from executive-level decision-making to building deep, listening-based relationships with community elders.    Through his personal reflections on reconciliation, Prof Donovan offers a roadmap for institutional change that puts shared growth at its heart.

Dr Courtney Hills McBeth, Chief Academic Officer and Provost, Western Governors University

Dr. Courtney Hills McBeth, Chief Academic Officer and Provost at Western Governors University (WGU) joins host Prof. Judyth Sachs, to discuss the "dual transformation" reshaping WGU. They dive into: * Shifting demographics: How WGU is adapting now that 40% of its incoming online students are younger learners with limited career experience. * Fostering community: Building belonging in a digital space through scaled peer cohorts and a specialized faculty framework. * Leadership lessons: Courtney's insights as a former All-American soccer player and how she strategically manages her academic team's diverse strengths.

Prof Nick Klomp, Vice-Chancellor and President, CQUniversity

Professor Nick Klomp, Vice-Chancellor and President of CQUniversity sits down with your host, Professor Judyth Sachs to explore the evolving landscape of regional higher education, focusing on institutional mission, student demographics, the integration of emerging technologies, and future of flexible learning. He reinforces that the sustainable university of the future must balance new technologies with student-focused learning and strong cultural and peer support systems, while staying deeply rooted in community support.

LIVE RECORDING: Thriving in uncertain times: Student Wellbeing and AI - a 'Students First' Symposium

On Friday 8th May 2026, your panel came together to discuss how institutions can help students to thrive, among all the anxiety and uncertainty of the AI age.  This session explores the intersection of generative AI and student mental health in the higher education sector. Featuring a diverse panel of academic leaders from Australia and Malaysia, and a student representative, the session addresses the "confidence gap" in AI learning, the transition from punitive to learning-first integrity frameworks, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging through human connection. The discussion offers practical insights into how institutions can move beyond the policing of AI to create a culture of trust and uphold critical thinking.   Panelists: * Prof Adeeba Kamarulzaman, President and Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) of Monash University Malaysia. * Megan Pozzi SFHEA, Director (Student Life), Uni Southern QLD * Dr Georgina Maddox, teaching specialist in psychology at Flinders University * Ivana Pedruco Aniceto, 3rd year law student from University of Newcastle * and chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity. studiosity.com/studentsfirst

Prof Leanne Holt, Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous at UNSW - on Reconcliation in Higher Education

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2026, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work. This first episode in the 2026 series features a conversation between Judyth and Prof Leanne Holt, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). They discuss: * Prof Holt's remarkable journey from leaving school in year 11 to leading Indigenous strategy at one of Australia’s top universities, and her personal insights on overcoming 'imposter syndrome' * The importance of systemic institutional change over temporary programs, and how UNSW is centering Indigenous knowledge within its broader societal impact goals. * Redefining reconciliation as voice, agency, and action - a compelling look at how universities can go beyond internal targets to create genuine community agency and lasting societal change.