Opportunity for real impact

Learning reimagined

When Professor Erica Wilson reflects on her 22-year journey at Southern Cross University, one theme stands out: the opportunity to create meaningful change. As Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic Innovation), she's helping transform how students learn – a mission that exemplifies the unique opportunities she has discovered at Southern Cross University. 

 “I've grown up at the university,” she says, “and what I love about it is still that passion, that youthfulness and that ability to do things differently.” 

 Since joining in 2003, Erica has transformed her career within Southern Cross University, moving through roles including Director of Teaching and Learning, Deputy Dean and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor. This progression wasn't just about climbing the ladder – it was about embracing real opportunities to make a real impact. 

 “Senior academics and mentors saw potential in me that I hadn't yet recognised in myself. They had the trust and insight to put me forward for leadership roles early in my career, seeing my desire to create positive change at SCU.” 

 That passion for positive change has culminated in her co-designing and implementing the Southern Cross Model – an innovative six-week block teaching approach that is dramatically improving student outcomes. The results speak for themselves: a 20% increase in pass rates and improved teaching scores. 

 “It's a once-in-a-generation chance to design curriculum and teaching from the ground up,” Erica says. “So far, the model has far exceeded any outcomes we ever could have imagined.  

 “It takes a certain institutional culture and spirit to be able to achieve something like this, and that just came through the whole university, from the top of leadership down.”  

Unearthing the past, shaping the future

For Professor Renaud Joannes-Boyau, SCU’s regional foundation and close-knit community aren’t limitations – they’re strengths. As Director of Higher Degree Research and leader of one of the world’s top geoarchaeology labs, Professor Renaud has experienced firsthand how SCU’s size and collaborative spirit provide a platform for real impact. 

 “As a researcher, you don’t wait for people to ask you to make an impact. You just do it! If you do good work at SCU, people will notice and they’ll reward you for it.” 

 After 14 years at SCU, Professor Renaud has done just that. From our Lismore campus, he’s established one of only six labs in the world specialising in the dating of human remains. He has also published groundbreaking research in Nature and helped uncover the world’s oldest rock art. 

 But for Renaud, making an impact isn’t about personal achievement – it’s about collaboration. 

 “I always remind young researchers that you shine brighter when you’re willing to shine with others. It’s about being generous with your ideas, then people will be generous with you.” 

 This spirit of collaboration defines SCU. Renaud credits the university’s investment in its people for helping him grow both as a researcher and a leader. 

 “The mentoring I’ve received at SCU has been incredible,” he says. “They invest in your potential and prepare you for leadership roles. That’s something I’ve always appreciated.” 

 Looking ahead, Renaud sees enormous potential for SCU to achieve even more. 

 “This small, regional university could soon rank among the top 300 in the world,” he says. “That’s exciting – and it’s a testament to what’s possible here.” 

Where your efforts are visible and valued

For Associate Professor Georgina Dimopoulos, Southern Cross University is a community where innovative research, meaningful teaching and personal growth thrive together. 

 “SCU is unique because I feel that I and my work are truly recognised, supported and valued. It’s not just about official recognition like awards – although I’ve been fortunate to receive those. It’s the day-to-day collaboration with colleagues and the sense that what we’re doing together is making a tangible difference.” 

 Dr Georgina’s work exemplifies SCU’s commitment to creating regional impact with global significance. One of her current projects involves co-designing a toolkit with young people to enhance their participation in family law decisions.  

 “It’s about amplifying the voices of children who are often overlooked and ensuring they feel seen and heard.” 

 Georgina’s dedication and achievements have been celebrated, most recently with two university awards. Yet, for her, the true reward lies in SCU’s inclusive, forward-thinking culture.