BIO:  Sam Gorringe is the CEO of the Tasmanian University Students Association (TUSA). She has lead the organisation’s transformation program to create a vibrant and contemporary student association. Sam has over 25 years of experience in strategy development and delivery, transformation and change program planning and delivery, and human resource management across various industries and organisations. With a Bachelor of Commerce from UTAS and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), Sam has the skills and credentials to partner with businesses and teams to set clear direction, get the right people on board, and make it happen. She has a collaborative and respectful approach, and works with others to craft and implement pragmatic solutions that build sustainability and organisational capability. Sam also enjoys coaching and mentoring leaders who are committed to making a positive contribution within their businesses or communities.

SESSION OVERVIEW: 

Out with the Old, In with the Bold – Transforming one of the oldest student unions in Australia

This session will unveil the TUU’s strategic initiative to revitalise itself as a contemporary student representative organisation. Facing challenges such as shifts in student demographics and declining engagement, the Board of the then TUU agreed to fund a 3 year Transformation Program. This program aimed to create a vibrant and relevant student association, foster stronger ties with UTAS, and ensure ongoing financial sustainability. Key areas of focus for the transformation included redefining the student association, fostering engagement and implementing structural and cultural change.