As AI and emerging technologies reshape our world, universities must evolve to stay relevant, connected, and future-ready. This thought-provoking panel brings together University leaders and innovators in teaching, learning, and the student experience to unpack the challenges facing higher education and reimagine what a great university experience looks like.
Gain insights into the major shifts affecting educators and students, explore inspiring innovations underway atThe University of Melbourne, and discuss how to scale these efforts institution-wide.
This event also marks the launch of a University-wide Community of Practice focused on driving practical, collaborative innovation in education. Whether you have an idea or simply know things could be better, this is your opportunity to connect with others turning ideas into impact with support from InnovatEd and the Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre.
Professor Jamie Evans
Jamie is the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students and Education) at the University of Melbourne and Professor in Electrical and Electronic Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology.
In his PVC role Jamie leads whole-of-University approaches to education programs and development in key areas of the Academic and Student Life portfolios. This includes leading the advancement of Discovery Subjects, Capstone Subjects, Breadth Subjects, Work-Integrated Learning programs, and Co-Curricular opportunities for students. His role also supports the professional development of academic staff and recognition of staff through awards and grants.
Mr Michael Poisel
Recently appointed as Executive Director of Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre at the University of Melbourne, Michael is renowned for driving university innovation. During his 16-year tenure at the University of Pennsylvania, he established several entrepreneurial programmes, including PCI Ventures, UPstart, and The Pennovation Center. These initiatives fostered over 280 companies, raising more than $900 million in funding. With a background in private equity and satellite engineering, Michael holds degrees from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the University of Pennsylvania, including an MBA from The Wharton School of Business.
Dr Amanda Samson
Dr Amanda Samson is an education leader, researcher and mentor specialising in teacher development, professional identity and leadership capability. She leads the UniConnected project, enhancing student career readiness through cross-faculty collaboration and equitable project-based learning. Amanda’s work integrates mentoring, curriculum innovation and educational partnerships, with a strong focus on relational learning, equity and reflective practice. Through initiatives like UniConnected, Mentoring for Educational Leaders and Teaching Sparks, she drives educational innovation that connects research with practice to reimagine learning for future-ready educators and professionals.
Dr Shravya Thandlam Sudhindra
Dr. Shravya Thandlam Sudhindra holds a Bachelor's in Architecture, a Master's in Engineering Design and Innovation, and a PhD in Competency-Oriented Design Education. She is currently an Education Specialist in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Melbourne and teaches a core master's subject, Interdisciplinary Design for Engineers (IDfE). Shravya is also the co-founder of Competency Edge, an AI-powered solution that translates content into competencies in university curricula and educational frameworks.
Ms Mia Casey
Mia is a Bachelor of Design student majoring in User Experience Design and co-founder of Circula, a platform helping students connect to campus life by simplifying how they discover and engage with university events. She's passionate about building intuitive, community-focused technology that supports student wellbeing and fosters real-world connections. Exploring how design and innovation can help address disconnection and create more inclusive, engaging university experiences.
Dr Nicki Cranna, InnovatEd Program Manager, Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre.
Nicki, the panel chair, manages the InnovatEd Incubator program at the Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre, collaborating closely with the Office of the Provost to foster innovative education solutions. An entrepreneur with a PhD in Biomedical Science from the University of Melbourne and a Graduate Certificate in Commercialisation from Melbourne Business School, Nicki brings a unique blend of academic rigour and practical innovation to her role. Her diverse experience encompasses lecturing, learning design, and education program development.
