Vice-Chancellor, Professor Greg Craven

Christmas Blessings

As we all prepare to celebrate the Christmas season, I want to extend my best wishes for a happy and holy Christmas to everyone at Australian Catholic University.

We have made much progress in 2009, and I am grateful to all staff for the hard work and commitment that has been demonstrated during a year of major change at the University.

We started the year with a new Strategic Plan and excellent enrolment performance. By Semester One 2010, we will have achieved at least a 28 per cent increase in enrolments over two years.

The restructure of the senior management has been completed, with two new Pro Vice-Chancellors appointed, three Associate Vice-Chancellors, two Campus Deans and new managers in key administrative portfolios.

2009 was a significant year for the identity and Mission of the University, with the establishment of the Faculty of Theology and Philosophy, the Directorate of Identity and Mission and the Institute for Catholic Identity and Mission. The recent branding review has led to the brand of the University reverting from ACU to Australian Catholic University.

The University-wide VOICE survey of staff was launched with overall feedback positive, although we will continue to address areas of concern as we go forward as an institution.

We have also received a number of University-wide awards, as well as many individual staff and student awards for learning and teaching, research and community engagement. I express my gratitude to all of the staff members who have helped achieve these successful outcomes.

Next year will be a critical year as we enter a new higher education landscape under the Bradley reforms. Competition for students and funding will increase further, and we have much to achieve in terms of research performance, capital investment and further improvement of the student experience.

I appreciate the commitment that you all demonstrate to the Mission of the University and the hard work everyone puts in to achieve further success for the University.

I wish you and your families all the best for the Christmas season and a happy and safe holiday.

Professor Greg Craven
Vice-Chancellor