Executive Dean’s Message

As we approach this holiday, I wanted to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to you all. This time of year, offers us a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and recharge, regardless of our individual beliefs or backgrounds.

For many, this holiday is synonymous with quality time spent with loved ones, whether it’s catching up with family members, reconnecting with old friends, or simply taking a well-deserved break from our busy routines. I encourage all of you to make the most of this precious time. Whether you’re planning a getaway, indulging in some much-needed rest and relaxation, or enjoying the simple pleasures of home, I hope this break brings you joy, peace, and rejuvenation.

It’s extremely important for us to take those opportunities around public holidays to book and take leave as it represents a great opportunity to re-connect with the people in our live outside of work and to rest and recuperate. It is also important for the university that we keep leave balances in check as it does impact the institutions bottom line. Remember, that when we are on leave, we truly disconnect from work. Leave is leave, so I would encourage everyone to turn on their out of office message and not be tempted to log in and check their emails,

As we look forward to the remainder of the semester, let’s return refreshed and energized, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Remember to take care of yourselves and each other, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support or assistance. I am aware that public holidays can be very stressful times for people, I just wanted to remind you that you can access the Employee Assistance Program should you feel the need of its assistance. Further information regarding Charles Sturt’s health and wellbeing services is available here.

Finally, I would also like to thank those of you that have completed your work planning in the EDRS system for 2024 and got those to the point of sign off, however there are still a very large number of staff who need to commence the EDRS or progress it through the different stages, I would encourage all of those staff especially those who haven’t started yet, to progress this with some speed, I will be contacting your Head of School to contact you shortly to have this finalised by the end of March.

Wishing you all a great holiday and has some time off with your Family and Friends.

Warm regards,

Lewis