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Sandra Harrison
Head of Educational Services, Macquarie University Business School
Professional Background
Sandra Harrison is an accomplished manager and leader with over two decades of diverse professional experience predominantly in the fields of media and higher education. She is recognized for her ability to drive change and foster opportunities that enhance both individual lives and society as a whole. Throughout her career, Sandra has been dedicated to supporting educational initiatives, creating strategic partnerships, and facilitating environments where creativity and innovation can flourish.
As a former Head of Educational Services at Macquarie University Business School, Sandra oversaw numerous programs and initiatives that significantly improved student engagement and learning outcomes. At UNSW Engineering, she has held various critical positions including Manager of Student Opportunities, Student-led Projects Manager, and Student Recruitment Officer, where she actively mentored students and helped them navigate their educational journeys.
Sandra's role as a marketing, event, and project manager has elevated her profile within the industry, allowing her to excel in creating impactful campaigns, leading teams effectively, and building valuable relationships with stakeholders. Her foresight and expertise have made her a sought-after figure in both educational and media sectors.
Education and Achievements
Sandra’s career has been marked by awards and accolades that highlight her commitment to excellence. In 2019, she was honored with the UNSW Engineering Staff Excellence Award for her significant contributions in creating the Makerspace Network, a hub that empowers students to innovate and collaborate. Her leadership was also recognized in 2016 when she received the UNSW Vice Chancellor's Staff Excellence Award for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion within Women in Engineering.
Moreover, the Dean's Media Award for Campaign of the Year in the same year further underscores her outstanding ability to craft narratives that resonate, particularly through the 'Made By Me' initiative aimed at highlighting the contributions of women in the engineering field. This campaign not only celebrated female engineers but also encouraged new generations of women to consider careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
In 2014, her project's recognition with the PANPA Marketing award for Consumer Engagement, stemming from her impactful work with the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age during the 'Clique Photographers Association' initiative, signals her competency in marketing and audience engagement.
Sandra's commitment to her craft also transcends awards. Her artistic contributions were showcased in the exhibition titled 'Photos1440,' executed during her tenure at the Sydney Morning Herald. The exhibition, held at the State Library of NSW, attracted over 40,000 visitors, demonstrating her capability to orchestrate events that combined art and journalism effectively.
Personal Attributes
An exceptional team player, Sandra thrives in dynamic environments where quick decision-making is essential. However, her strong attention to detail ensures that she balances speed with meticulous planning. She is known for her can-do attitude and her ability to work autonomously on multiple projects under tight deadlines.
Moreover, Sandra's eagerness to learn and her practical approach make her a reliable asset in any organization. Her optimistic nature inspires those around her, fostering a supportive and creative atmosphere that encourages collaboration and success. Whether steering major projects, mentoring students, or collaborating with colleagues, Sandra's genuine passion for her work continuously shines through.
With a rich background steeped in leadership, marketing, project management, and operational strategy, Sandra Harrison exemplifies what it means to be a driven professional dedicated to making meaningful contributions to the fields of education and media.