Geraldine Butler, Campus Life Coordinator, Melbourne Campus

How would I spend my ideal day?

With my family; Rob, Liam and Matilda, in Salt in Northern NSW. Starting with breakfast, walk along the beach and finishing the day watching a sunset together

In life I have learned...

that the only person that I can change is myself. I can give information to others in the hope that I influence them, but at the end of the day I can’t change anyone

Something that inspires me...

Sunsets

What would surprise most people about my job?

A good symbol of what it is to be a Campus Life Coordinator is a paperclip. It is our job to build links across the University but it is also important for us to to be flexible and adaptable.

What has been the most significant development in my field since starting my career?

I’m a primary school teacher and a Pastoral Associate by vocation, and teaching has provided me with a suitcase full of skills and strategies which can be transferred to many different fields. Through this I’ve learnt that the most important skill, and the one you will be able to bring to any role, is the ability to build good working relationships 

If I could invite any five people to dinner, who would they be and why?

Joan Chittister, she has given me the courage to ask about the important, spiritual questions of our time. Margaret Oats, she was a great ambassador for the poor in Collingwood, Victoria and was not afraid to speak her mind. My mum, Mollie Butler and another a woman of strong values who instilled in me the importance of having a voice. Pope Benedict, the conversation could be quite stimulating with some strong, informed, women at the table and Jesus, I always leave a seat for him at the table just in case he turns up unexpectedly, it is Advent after all!