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Sue Owen
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Professional Background
Sue Owen is an accomplished Library Director with a formidable career spanning several prestigious universities, including Federation University Australia and Monash University Library. With a commitment to transformational leadership, Sue has successfully delivered collaborative initiatives across higher education, establishing herself as an advocate for ubiquitous information access and digital literacy. Her experience in strategic planning and her evidence-based approach have made her a key player in the academic library environment. Throughout her career, Sue has focused on empowering individuals and creating enriching learning spaces that cater to diverse communities.
In her most recent role as Director of Library and Learning Spaces at Federation University Australia, Sue has played a pivotal role in transforming how library services are perceived and accessed by students and faculty alike. Her strategic vision is evident in the development of innovative library projects and collaborative spaces that promote learning and engagement. Furthermore, her previous experience as Director of Excellence and Engagement at Monash University Library highlights her commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within library services and enhancing community outreach programs.
Education and Achievements
Sue's educational background is solid and diverse, with a strong foundation in sociology, mathematical statistics, and genetics. She has earned her Bachelor's degree with Honours from La Trobe University, which has been instrumental in shaping her analytical and strategic thinking skills. Additionally, she has enriched her academic journey with pivotal studies at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and the University of New South Wales, where she began her professional library career as the Online Services Co-ordinator.
Educational institutions play a critical role in Sue's career path. While working at Deakin University, she rose through the ranks from Associate University Librarian, Client Services to Interim University Librarian and finally to Director of Digital Scholarship and Deputy University Librarian. Each role has equipped her with the expertise necessary to meet the changing landscape of library services and the evolving needs of the academic community. Her acknowledged achievements, underscored by awards in her commercial enterprise initiatives, reflect her dedication to innovation and effective communication across campuses.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
In addition to her roles within academia, Sue Owen is a passionate corporate communicator, connecting diverse communities through information sharing and education. She believes in the power of libraries to break down barriers and increase access to necessary resources. Her advocacy for digital literacy shows her vision for a society where information is available to everyone, ultimately enhancing the overall educational experience. Sue’s work symbolizes a commitment to purpose and empowerment, positioning libraries as hubs of learning and collaboration.
Notable Achievements
- Transformational Leadership: As Library Director, Sue has implemented significant transformations in library services that have improved user experience and access to resources.
- Strategic Growth: Under her leadership, libraries have developed programs that focused on community engagement and digital scholarship.
- Award-Winning Enterprise: Sue has been recognized for her innovative commercial initiatives, making substantial contributions to the financial sustainability of library services.
- Digital Literacy Advocate: Her efforts to promote digital literacy have helped equip students and faculty with the necessary skills to navigate today’s information landscape effectively.
- Collaboration Across Disciplines: She has effectively facilitated partnerships between libraries and various academic departments, enriching the educational offerings at each institution she has served.