The Champions Coffee Podcast: Recent Episodes
Vygo
A podcast series of 10-15 minute live virtual conversations (with virtual coffee) between Ben Hallett (CEO/Co-Founder, Vygo) and various industry professionals in the education or student success space.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, host Joel Di Trapani, Co-Founder & CEO of Vygo, sits down with Gareth Trainer, Head of Graduate Prospects at the University of Sunderland.
Discover Gareth’s perspective on preparing students for an increasingly unpredictable future and what it truly takes to bridge the gap between higher education and the changing world of work. Drawing on his leadership across employability, enterprise, career development, and industry partnerships, Gareth shares why graduate success is about far more than securing a first job it’s about helping students discover who they are, adapt to change, and build meaningful careers.
The conversation explores the realities facing universities today, from shifting labour markets and AI to the challenge of preparing students for careers that may not yet exist.
Gareth also shares how the University of Sunderland works closely with industry and its local community to ensure students graduate with the confidence, adaptability, and real-world experience needed to thrive in an evolving economy.
A thoughtful conversation on employability, lifelong learning, and why universities must prepare students not just for their first destination, but for a lifetime of opportunity.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, host Ben Hallett, Co-Founder & CEO of Vygo, sits down with Dr. Nerita Hughes, President of Bay College.
Discover Dr. Hughes’ perspective on leading student success in a rural community college environment and what it truly takes to create meaningful outcomes beyond graduation. Drawing on her background in business, workforce development, and higher education leadership, Dr. Hughes shares how Bay College is aligning academic programs with workforce needs, building structured student pathways, and preparing students for long-term career success.
The conversation also explores the evolving role of technology and AI in education, the importance of holistic student support, and why community colleges remain powerful engines of opportunity and economic mobility. At the heart of it all is Dr. Hughes’ belief that student success is about more than earning a credential it’s about removing barriers, fostering engagement, and helping learners achieve their goals.
A thoughtful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the transformative impact of community colleges.
In this special live episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, recorded at the 2025 NASPA Student Success Conference in Denver, host Ben Hallett sits down with Tréon D. McClendon, Assistant Vice Provost of Retention Initiatives at the University of Missouri–Kansas City.
A national award-winning educator and first-generation college graduate, Trayon leads one of the most comprehensive student success portfolios at UMKC spanning academic advising, career services, student support, supplemental instruction, and new student orientation.
He shares compelling stories from the classroom that underscore the importance of flexibility, self-awareness, and responsibility in student-facing roles.
Whether adapting an icebreaker to ensure accessibility or taking a chance on a student who simply needed belief and opportunity, Trayon demonstrates how small moments of intentionality can have lasting impact.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr David R. Loope, the sixth President of Beaufort County Community College in Washington, North Carolina. Serving a four-county rural region spanning more than 2,000 square miles (and famously home to more black bears than people), Dr Loope leads with a clear mandate: student success, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility. A longtime national advocate for rural community colleges and author of Citadel and Sanctuary, he brings decades of leadership experience across policy and practice to the front lines of workforce and economic development.
Ben and Dr Loope unpack what student-centred success looks like in a rural context from centralized advising that supports learners through the critical first 16–20 credits to a last-dollar scholarship model that covers tuition and fees for most credit students (9+ credits) and fully funds initial workforce certifications (50+ contact hours). The result: more credits taken, faster completion, and dramatically improved retention contributing to BCCC’s recognition as SmartAsset’s #1 community college in the nation for affordability, class size, and outcomes.
Listeners will also hear a powerful student story that inspired BCCC’s plan to convert a nearby house into temporary housing for homeless students, Dr Loope’s view that grades should reflect learning not be the goal, and his call for faculty–student services alignment and thoughtful adoption of AI to build critical thinking and career readiness. It’s a candid look at how a rural college can change lives one learner, one partnership, one pragmatic innovation at a time.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Sheree Utash, President of Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) a visionary leader transforming the landscape of technical education and workforce development.
Since assuming the presidency in 2015, Dr. Utash has led WSU Tech through a remarkable period of growth and change, including its pivotal 2018 affiliation with Wichita State University. Under her leadership, WSU Tech has become Kansas’ largest technical college and the managing partner for the National Center for Aviation Training, setting the national standard for innovation in applied learning.
Ben and Dr. Utash discuss her unique blend of higher education and private industry experience, her leadership of multimillion-dollar grant initiatives such as the National Aviation Consortium, and her influential role in workforce policy from serving on the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board to testifying before the U.S. Senate on the future of skilled aviation workers.
Tune in for a powerful conversation about visionary leadership, the transformative role of technical education, and how WSU Tech continues to drive economic and community growth across the region and beyond.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Rick MacLennan, Chancellor of the Ventura County Community College District, where he leads Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura Colleges in advancing equitable, student-centered education across Southern California.
With more than 30 years of leadership experience in community colleges across Idaho, Maryland, and Washington, Dr. MacLennan brings a deep understanding of access, equity, and opportunity in higher education. A U.S. Army veteran and former adult learner, he has built his career on the belief that education has the power to transform lives and strengthen communities.
Ben and Dr. MacLennan explore how meaningful community engagement, workforce partnerships, and student-first leadership can reduce barriers to learning and create pathways for success. They also discuss the evolving role of community colleges in today’s educational landscape and how innovation and compassion must go hand in hand to meet the needs of every student.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Carole Goldsmith, Chancellor of the Colleges at State Center Community College District. With a career spanning decades in leadership, student success, and community engagement, Carole has become a driving force in advancing equitable access and excellence across California’s community colleges.
A proven leader with a passion for collaboration, Dr. Goldsmith has led teams to deliver transformative outcomes through innovative policy development, budget stewardship, and strategic partnerships that center student achievement. Her leadership philosophy—grounded in compassion, accountability, and service—reflects her lifelong commitment to building strong, inclusive communities.
Ben and Carole discuss the power of local engagement, the future of community colleges, and how strong leadership can foster environments where students, staff, and communities thrive together.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. John Enamait, President of Stanly Community College and Chair-Elect of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). A steadfast advocate for rural innovation, opportunity, and student success, John has dedicated his career to ensuring that education transforms lives and strengthens communities.
With a leadership philosophy rooted in access, equity, and workforce readiness, Dr. Enamait is redefining how community colleges prepare students for meaningful futures—locally and nationally. His work champions the importance of policy advocacy and collaboration across institutions to empower students from all backgrounds, particularly in underserved regions.
Ben and John discuss the evolving role of community colleges in shaping the next generation of workforce leaders, the power of rural education innovation, and how strong, values-based leadership can drive transformation across the higher education landscape.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Howard Spearman, President of Rock Valley College, to discuss his mission to inspire others, build collaborative learning environments, and lead with purpose in higher education.
A visionary community college leader, Dr. Spearman is deeply committed to empowering students and educators alike—developing and implementing a clear, student-centered vision that turns learning into a lived reality. His leadership is grounded in collaboration, positivity, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of education to shape both personal and professional growth.
Ben and Dr. Spearman explore the importance of intentional leadership, fostering belonging through professional development, and how a shared vision can elevate institutions, communities, and the students they serve.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Mike Gavin, President of Delta College, Aspen Presidential Fellow, and founder of Education for All — a movement that positions higher education as a vehicle for social justice, economic mobility, and the development of a more humane society.
A respected scholar and thought leader, Dr. Gavin has authored two influential books on race and higher education, challenging institutions to rethink their role in creating equitable systems of learning. His leadership at Delta College reflects his lifelong commitment to using education as a tool for transformation — bridging access, inclusion, and innovation to empower both individuals and communities.
Ben and Dr. Gavin discuss the future of higher education as a catalyst for justice, the responsibility of institutions to uplift every learner, and the role of authentic leadership in shaping a more compassionate and equitable academic landscape.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with President Todd Haynie, the 22nd President of Eastern Arizona College, where he has dedicated over 25 years to expanding access, opportunity, and excellence in community college education.
A proud native of Arizona’s Gila Valley and an EAC alumnus, President Haynie has led the institution through a period of transformation modernising its image, expanding degree offerings, and strengthening its influence in state and national education policy. Under his leadership, Eastern Arizona College has continued its 137-year legacy of community impact while embracing innovation and student-centred success.
Ben and President Haynie discuss what it means to lead with purpose, the evolving role of community colleges in the U.S., and how institutions can remain agile, relevant, and mission-driven in a changing higher education landscape.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Cynthia Aguilar, Associate Vice President and Dean of Students at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP).
With nearly 15 years of higher education experience, Cynthia has built her career around advocacy, leadership, and empowering students to thrive. A proud UTEP alumna, she now leads critical programs that shape student success from leadership development and student conduct to health, wellness, and community engagement.
Ben and Cynthia discuss her journey from classroom teacher to senior higher education leader, her passion for supporting Hispanic and first-generation students, and her vision for creating inclusive, empowering spaces where every student can succeed.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr Matt Daily, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, to explore his mission of empowering first-generation and low-income students through culturally responsive leadership and innovative program design.
A passionate higher education advocate, Matt has built and led high-impact initiatives that redefine how institutions support student success. With over eight years of experience in curriculum and program development, he has designed best-practice frameworks for first-generation student support now implemented across colleges and universities nationwide.
Ben and Matt discuss the power of equity-driven education, the role of data-informed advocacy in shaping inclusive learning environments, and how universities can align strategy with compassion to drive real student outcomes.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr Amanda Jordan, Director of Student Experience at Chattanooga State Community College. With over 15 years of experience across community colleges and universities, Amanda has built a career dedicated to student engagement, first-generation advocacy, and leadership development.
Ben and Amanda explore her work leading campus-wide initiatives that promote socio-academic integration and belonging, from student leadership organizations and international student programming to intramural sports and first-generation support. Drawing on her background in advising, coaching, admissions, and orientation, she shares practical insights on how student affairs and academic services can align to create inclusive, student-centred environments.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, innovation in student experience, and why supporting diverse learners through intentional design is key to driving long-term student success.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Nuno Fernandes, President of the American Public University System (APUS), to explore his mission to make higher education more accessible, affordable, and outcomes-driven. Since taking office in 2022, Nuno has been leading a global digital transformation, integrating personalized, collaborative, and tech-powered learning experiences to prepare students for the future.
Ben and Nuno discuss how APUS, one of the largest and most mission-driven online universities in the United States, is expanding its impact on military, veteran, adult, and international learners while advancing quality, engagement, and student success. Nuno shares his insights on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance access and personalization, and reflects on the leadership lessons from his journey across global education, technology, and business.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Seth Harden, Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management at Jackson State Community College. A strategic higher education leader, Seth is committed to empowering students through inclusive initiatives that span high school engagement, recruitment, academic advising, and student life.
Ben and Seth explore how his mission-driven approach fosters strong partnerships, personalized support, and a vibrant campus culture that guides students from exploration to enrollment — and onward to long-term success. Drawing on his expertise in enrollment management and student development, Seth shares strategies for creating pathways that not only attract prospective students but also sustain retention and achievement once they arrive.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Michael Preston, Associate Vice President for Student Success at Texas State University. A first-generation college graduate and higher education leader with nearly 25 years of experience, Dr. Preston brings a proven record of driving innovation and collaboration to advance student retention, graduation, and post-graduation outcomes.
Ben and Michael explore his journey from Executive Director of the Florida Consortium of Metropolitan Research Universities to leading student success efforts at Texas State. They discuss how Dr. Preston leverages technology, strategic planning, and cross-campus partnerships to create a university-wide culture of success, while ensuring equitable access for underserved communities.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Harry Ingle, Jr., Executive Director for Student Affairs and an experienced higher education leader dedicated to advancing student development and institutional success.
With a strong background in enrollment management, leadership, and student recruitment, Harry has spent his career driving initiatives that foster student persistence and achievement. Skilled in operational management and technology systems such as Ellucian Banner, he combines strategic oversight with a student-centred approach to create programs that support retention and growth.
Ben and Harry discuss his research interests in student recruitment and persistence, his approach to building high-performing teams, and how effective management and innovation can elevate the student experience.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. LaNaé Budden, Director of the First-Generation Center at the University of South Carolina. A higher education and organizational development executive with a passion for helping others feel seen, connected, supported, and proud, LaNaé has dedicated her career to enhancing the student experience while growing as a leader and lifelong learner.
Ben and LaNaé explore her journey from diving headfirst into student life as an undergraduate to becoming a thoughtful, intentional leader who brings diverse teams together to identify opportunities and implement meaningful solutions. With a background rooted in first-generation student support, LaNaé shares insights on building inclusive programs, fostering belonging, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Ana Velázquez, Director of Equity and Justice, first-generation Latina educator, and committed equity accomplice. Ana is dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers in higher education and creating pathways that empower underrepresented students to thrive.
Ben and Ana explore her inspiring journey as a first-generation student and how it fuels her passion for equity-driven leadership. From developing inclusive programs to advocating for social justice at the institutional level, Ana shares actionable strategies for fostering belonging and driving meaningful change.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Han Kiat Ho, Dean of Students at the National University of Singapore (NUS). As a dedicated higher education leader, Han Kiat oversees student affairs at one of Asia’s most prestigious universities, guiding programs and policies that foster belonging, personal growth, and holistic success for a diverse global student body.
Ben and Han Kiat explore how NUS supports students in navigating academic challenges, building community, and preparing for life beyond graduation. With a focus on inclusive engagement and future-ready skills, Han Kiat shares his insights on leading student-centric initiatives, developing resilient support systems, and shaping the next generation of leaders in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on purposeful leadership, the value of community, and how Singapore’s flagship university is preparing students to thrive in a complex, interconnected world.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Kimberly Burgess, Executive Director of Student Success at Albany State University, an accomplished higher education professional specialising in advising, first-year experience, student success, and academic planning. A dynamic speaker and program developer, Kimberly has led initiatives across online universities, large public institutions, and HBCUs, shaping retention strategies, enhancing parent engagement, and building pathways for diverse student populations.
Ben and Kimberly explore her track record of creating impactful, student-centred programs that serve adult learners, transfer students, and first-year undergraduates alike. With a passion for improving processes and delivering high-quality services, she shares her insights into designing campus-wide initiatives that truly move the needle on student success.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Joel Di Trapani and Vygo’s Director of Sales Lyndin Smith-Francis sit down with Professor Nick Klomp, Vice-Chancellor and President of CQUniversity. With more than five years at the helm of one of Australia’s largest regional universities, Professor Klomp has championed a mission to unlock the potential of regional Australia through equitable access to world-class education and training.
Together, they explore how regional universities like CQUniversity play a transformative role far beyond classrooms, supplying skilled workforces, driving community-focused research, fueling local economies, and serving as anchors of opportunity.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with MeShonya “Dr. MeMe” Wren-Coleman, Vice President for Student Life & Dean of Students at Bethel College – North Newton. A dynamic higher education leader, Dr. MeMe brings a data-driven, results-oriented approach to designing and improving student success programs that meet the highest standards of best practice, technology integration, and compliance.
Ben and Dr. MeMe explore her leadership philosophy, rooted in inspiring teams, developing impactful curriculum, and leveraging data to inform decision-making. With expertise spanning higher education administration, grant-funded budget management, fundraising, and customer service excellence, she shares how she builds environments where students and staff alike can thrive.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Shelley Errington Nicholson, educator, social justice advocate, and Dean of Students at Greenfield Community College. With extensive experience in student development, advising, volunteer management, public speaking, assessment, and grant writing, Shelley has dedicated her career to empowering students and advancing equity in higher education.
Ben and Shelley discuss her path from earning a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy/Higher Education Administration at UMass Amherst to becoming an influential voice in social justice and student advocacy.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Michael Heim, Director of Federal Grants – Migrant Education Student Access & Support (MESAS) at Washington State University. Michael leads with a coach-first philosophy, developing high-performing teams, empowering student leaders, and cultivating community partnerships with a special focus on advancing Latinx (HSI) initiatives that deliver measurable student success.
Tune in for an insightful conversation on the intersection of coaching, cultural advocacy, and data-driven leadership and how empowering students to lead can transform both educational outcomes and community connections.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Ryan P. Barone, Assistant Vice President for Student Success at Colorado State University. A first-generation college graduate turned higher education leader, Ryan bridges academic affairs and student affairs to drive campus-wide strategies that foster belonging, equity, and achievement. He oversees key initiatives, including the Academic Advancement Centre, McNair Scholars Program, Scholar Success Programs, Key Communities, and University Learning Communities, all designed to help students navigate, thrive, and graduate.
Ben and Ryan explore the art of building collaborative partnerships across institutional divisions, the importance of equity-driven student success frameworks, and how to balance data-informed decision-making with the human stories behind the numbers. As an assistant professor and doctoral advisor in the School of Education, Ryan also shares his passion for mentoring the next generation of higher education leaders.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Kelly Soucy, Associate Dean of Students at The University of Texas at Austin. A compassionate higher education leader dedicated to supporting the whole student, Dr. Soucy brings a wealth of experience in fostering belonging, well-being, and academic success across diverse student communities.
Ben and Dr. Soucy discuss her journey in higher education leadership, from mentoring students through personal and academic challenges to championing programs that strengthen campus inclusivity.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Amanda Shelnutt, Director of First-Generation Student Success at Oberlin College. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment, equity, and the arts, Amanda has dedicated her career to creating inclusive spaces where students can thrive, connect, and lead.
Drawing on her expertise in volunteer management, operational excellence, and creative problem-solving, Amanda shares how she leverages the transformative power of art and education to strengthen community ties and increase students’ sense of belonging. Ben and Amanda explore the unique challenges and opportunities of supporting first-generation students, the role of creativity in student success, and how intentional design of programs and experiences can change lives.
Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about equity, community building, and the belief that when you blend operational rigour with artistic vision, you create spaces where every student feels they belong.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Darryl B. Holloman, Vice President for Student Affairs at Spelman College and NASPA Board Chair (2025–2028). With nearly three decades of higher education leadership, Dr. Holloman has dedicated his career to advancing student success, fostering community, and shaping inclusive learning environments.
Ben and Dr. Holloman explore his journey from faculty roles across multiple universities to becoming a nationally recognized leader and 2023 NASPA Pillar of the Profession.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Shené Owens, Director of Student Affairs, and Dr. Bernadette Poerio, Assistant Director of Student Affairs at the University of Virginia’s School of Education and Human Development. Together, these dynamic leaders bring a powerful combination of strategic vision, student-centred practice, and deep commitment to fostering belonging in higher education.
With expertise spanning transformational leadership, professional staff development, crisis response, orientation design, and holistic student support, Shené and Bernadette share how their collaborative approach strengthens student experiences from day one. They discuss the importance of embedding equity and student voice into every initiative, using data to drive impact, and creating spaces where students feel empowered to navigate, thrive, and lead.
Tune in for a candid and inspiring conversation on the future of student affairs, the art of balancing operations with empathy, and why believing in your students and your team can change everything.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Shoshana Zeisman-Pereyo, Executive Director of Student Academic Support Services at Portland State University. A student-centred educational leader and champion for inclusive excellence in STEM, Shoshana is an expert in designing, scaling, and sustaining programs that drive academic success for diverse student communities.
Her journey of building support systems that go beyond academics, weaving inclusion, equity, and community into the fabric of student life. Drawing on her extensive experience in higher education leadership, Shoshana shares strategies for fostering belonging in STEM, scaling initiatives without losing their personal touch, and aligning institutional vision with student needs.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation in student support, the power of inclusive program design, and why creating pathways for every student to thrive is both a responsibility and a privilege.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, sits down with Guillermo Merelo, Associate Director of Staff Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Waipapa Taumata Rau, The University of Auckland. With a rich and global career spanning over 30 years, Guillermo brings unmatched expertise at the intersection of diversity, equity, inclusion, organisational development, and community engagement. From his early days as a senior public officer in Latin America to leadership roles across Europe and the Asia-Pacific, Guillermo’s work has consistently pushed the boundaries of people and culture strategy through an academic and justice-focused lens.
Ben and Guillermo explore the vital role of inclusive leadership in higher education, the complexities of intersectionality, and how research can inform policy to create more equitable workplaces. As a published researcher, policy advisor, and Vice President of EPHEA, Guillermo shares insights on building belonging across borders, industries, and identities, offering a compelling vision for what inclusive excellence looks like in practice.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, sits down with Rosie George, Manager of Student Engagement & Experience at the University of Adelaide. A strategic and creative higher education professional, Rosie is passionate about building inclusive, student-centred programs that help individuals belong, navigate, and thrive. From transforming orientation into immersive, story-driven journeys to embedding peer leadership into institutional culture, Rosie’s work sits at the dynamic intersection of planning, support, and cross-campus activation.
Lyndin and Rosie explore what it takes to design scalable engagement initiatives that are meaningful and adaptable — especially as the university looks ahead to its bold transformation in 2026. Rosie shares how she merges operational precision with human-centred design, ensuring that every touchpoint enhances the student experience while aligning with institutional goals.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, sits down with Michelle Collins, Program Lead of Libraries for Belonging at Monash University. A qualified librarian and passionate advocate for community-centered storytelling, Michelle blends creativity, digital strategy, and deep literary insight to transform how libraries engage their communities. With a background spanning bookshops, English literature, and digital communication, her mission is clear: to bridge the gaps between readers and writers, messages and audiences, and libraries and the communities they serve.
Lyndin and Michelle explore the evolving role of libraries in shaping belonging, advocacy through storytelling, and the power of joyful, purpose-led teams.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Nadine Zacharias, Managing Director and Founder of Equity by Design. A national leader in student equity and engagement, Nadine brings deep expertise in driving systemic transformation at the intersection of practice, research, and policy. Her work challenges the status quo in tertiary education to build a more equitable and high-performing sector, one that empowers diverse student cohorts and elevates the role of education in the public good.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett chats with Jeremiah Shinn, Interim President and former Vice President for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management at Boise State University. A first-generation college student turned seasoned higher ed leader, Jeremiah brings over two decades of experience transforming institutions through creativity, student-centered strategy, and inclusive leadership.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett speaks with Yeo Lay, Dean of Students at the Student Success Centre, Singapore University of Social Sciences. A passionate educator and leader in experiential learning, Yeo Lay brings a visionary approach to nurturing student growth within a supportive and values-driven community. With a leadership style rooted in integrity, responsibility, and collaboration, she empowers diverse teams and fosters environments where individuals can flourish.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett connects with Shane Long, Assistant Dean of Students at the University of New England. With over two decades in student affairs, Shane brings a wealth of experience in driving student success through innovative leadership, policy development, and cross-functional collaboration. A consultant and coach, he empowers higher education professionals to align purpose with strategy, helping institutions create inclusive, high-impact environments. Known for his big-picture mindset and visionary leadership, Shane shares his approach to building mission-driven teams, fostering productivity, and advancing equity across campuses. Tune in to hear how he’s shaping the future of student affairs—one strategic initiative at a time.
Recorded at the backdrop of UA Solutions Summit 2025, this special episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast features a conversation between Vygo’s Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Ben Hallett, and Professor Romy Lawson, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Flinders University.
With an extensive career spanning leadership roles across Australian and UK universities, Romy is a recognised expert in educational transformation, learning innovation, and academic leadership. At Flinders, she leads the university’s academic enterprise, driving strategic priorities that enhance teaching quality, student success, and curriculum innovation.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Tim Winkler, Director at Twig Marketing and Rocketshop, and Publisher of Future Campus. With an unconventional start sterilising infectious waste in a university lab, Tim’s journey has evolved into a powerhouse career in journalism, communications, and strategy—particularly in the higher education sector.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Jake Garman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President, International at Edith Cowan University. With a sharp focus on strategic growth and global engagement, Jake leads ECU’s international priorities during a pivotal time for Australian higher education. A respected leader known for building strong global partnerships and fostering innovation, Jake shares his vision for expanding ECU’s international footprint, strengthening student experiences, and positioning the university as a global education leader. Tune in for insights on collaboration, leadership, and ECU’s next chapter on the world stage.
Recorded at the backdrop of UA Solutions Summit 2025, this special episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast features a conversation between Vygo’s Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Ben Hallett, and Professor Jessica Vanderlelie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at La Trobe University. Jessica also serves as Co-Chair of Universities Australia Women and Deputy Chair of the Universities Australia DVC Academic Committee.
A nationally recognised leader in learning and teaching, student success, and widening participation, Jessica is a passionate advocate for equity, inclusion, and student partnership. At La Trobe, she has led the development of sustainable, efficient service delivery models that elevate the student and staff experience.
Driven by purpose and a deep belief in psychological safety as the foundation for organisational culture, Jessica is known for fostering innovation and mentoring the next generation of leaders across higher education. Her contributions have been recognised through numerous prestigious awards, including the AFR Emerging Leader Award and an Australian Award for Excellence in Teaching. A Fellow of the International Federation of National Learning and Teaching Fellows, Jessica brings a creative and collaborative approach to educational transformation and access.
Recorded at the backdrop of UA Solutions Summit 2025, this special episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast features a conversation between Vygo’s APAC Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, and Michelle Crosby, Chief Operating Officer at Charles Sturt University.
A transformative, people-focused leader, Michelle brings extensive senior executive experience across government (Commonwealth and State) and the private sector, spanning governance, service delivery, corporate, IT, and program management. Before Charles Sturt, she served as Deputy Registrar at the Australian Business Registry Services (Australian Taxation Office), overseeing nine million ABN holders and three million companies. With prior roles like Deputy Commissioner at the ATO, General Manager at Parks Victoria, and First Assistant Secretary at PM&C, Michelle’s passion for inclusivity shines—especially in uplifting First Nations staff and communities. Armed with an MBA, Masters in HR, and accounting credentials, she’s driving impactful change at Charles Sturt.
Recorded at the backdrop of UA Solutions Summit 2025, this special episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast features a conversation between Vygo’s APAC Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, and Mark Erickson, Academic Registrar at the University of Sydney.
A seasoned higher education leader, Mark brings a proven track record as a Director/Registrar, driving excellent outcomes and spearheading transformative change. With deep expertise in student lifecycle management, governance, and regulatory landscapes, he blends sharp analytical skills with financial acumen to deliver IT and business projects that boost customer experience. A forward-thinking manager, Mark excels in building networks across sectors, government, and borders, while leading diverse teams with positivity and empowerment. His knack for negotiation, stakeholder communication, and mentorship fosters supportive environments where results shine—making him a dynamic change agent shaping Sydney’s academic operations.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Marlene Tromp, President of Boise State University. With a trailblazing career spanning AAU institutions like UC Santa Cruz (provost) and Arizona State (dean/vice provost), Marlene has driven Boise State into global partnerships like UPWARDS at the G7 Summit and the U.S. Council on Competitiveness. A champion of access, she’s grown health sciences and education grads, built award-winning facilities for arts and quantum-focused engineering, and created the Presidential True Blue Scholarship endowment. Tune in as Marlene shares her vision for innovation, equity, and impactful leadership.
Recorded at the backdrop of UA Solutions Summit 2025, this special episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast features a conversation between Vygo’s APAC Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, and Professor Geoff Hinchcliffe, Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning & Teaching) at The Australian National University (ANU).With a strong background in design, digital technology, and data visualisation, Geoff is leading ANU’s efforts to create future-focused, adaptive, and transformative learning experiences.
As a key proponent of design and digital innovation within the School of Art & Design, his research explores how interaction, interface, and visualisation design can enhance digital collections and improve student engagement.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallet sits down with Glen Babington, Chief Operating Officer at the University of Technology Sydney. With extensive experience in mergers, transformations, and leadership across education, utilities, and defence, Glen is passionate about building resilient teams, driving process simplification, and leveraging data analytics and digital innovation to create impactful change. Now, in the education sector, he applies these principles to lead large-scale transformations, ensuring customer-centric strategies and sustainable growth. Tune in as Glen shares his insights on leadership, organisational change, and the future of technology-driven transformation.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s APAC Head of Partner Engagement, Lyndin Francis sits down with Professor Guy Littlefair, the outgoing Pro Vice-Chancellor International and Executive Dean at Auckland University of Technology (AUT). With a distinguished career spanning academia, industry, and global partnerships, Guy has been instrumental in shaping innovative and inclusive education models that drive real-world impact. His leadership at AUT’s Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies (DCT) has transformed multidisciplinary learning across engineering, computer science, design, communication studies, and more. Tune in as Guy shares his insights on global engagement, strategic partnerships, and the future of education in an evolving technological landscape.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallet sits down with Jonathan Powles, Vice President of Student Success at CQUniversity. As an executive leader in higher education, Jonathan has a proven track record in driving change and innovation across universities. With expertise in curriculum transformation, learning technologies, learner analytics, and academic development, he has led institution-wide initiatives that enhance student success and pedagogical excellence. His leadership continues to shape the future of higher education through innovation and strategic transformation.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallet sits down with Richard Dobek, former Interim Executive Principal, Student Experience at the University of New England (AU), an executive leader with a passion for people, transformation, and operations. With extensive experience in human resources, strategy, and change management. He plays a key role in enhancing student engagement and operational effectiveness across the institution.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Head of Partner Engagement, Lyndin Francis, sits down with Professor Elizabeth Johnson, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Deakin University.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo's Regional Director of Partners for EMEA, Hannah Gardner, sits down with Ellie Garraway, CEO of Grit, an organization reshaping mindsets in universities, schools, and local authorities. With a diverse background in theatre, coaching, and positive psychology, Ellie has dedicated over 20 years to empowering students and communities, fostering self-belief, and promoting student success. Under her leadership, Grit’s impactful programs have supported access, retention, and belonging across 50+ institutions and countless schools, transforming both individual lives and institutional cultures.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallet sits down with Russell Bailey, Head of Transformation at Murdoch University. With over 25 years of experience across higher education, Russell leads a diverse team of IT professionals, including enterprise architects, business analysts, and project managers. His expertise in strategic planning, project management, and IT architecture drives Murdoch’s digital transformation agenda.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Dr. Omer Yezdani, Chief Data Officer at the University of the Sunshine Coast, whose career spans over 25 years in public, nonprofit, and higher education sectors. Known for his expertise in data, AI, and governance, Dr. Yezdani has led transformation across multiple industries, from his early work in communications technology with an ASX-listed firm to driving national education reform in the Federal Government. A passionate advocate for societal impact, he serves on various boards and holds awards for excellence in governance. Dr. Yezdani’s strategic insight and dedication continue to shape Australia’s higher education landscape.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo's Regional Director of Partners for EMEA, Hannah Gardner, speaks with Tom Lowe, Principal Lecturer and Assistant Head of School (Student Experience) at the University of Westminster. With over a decade of experience in student engagement, Tom specializes in areas such as student voice, retention, employability, and student-staff partnership. As Chair of RAISE, Tom leads a network focused on researching and innovating student engagement in higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo's Regional Director of Partners for EMEA, Hannah Gardner, speaks with Simon Massey, Associate Head of Sociology at Manchester Met and Director of the Q-Step Centre. A specialist in quantitative research methods, Dr. Massey teaches SPSS, R, and Python, with research focused on statistics anxiety and innovative teaching. As a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a lead author for the Office for Students, he brings extensive expertise in data skills and education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet & Head of Product Russell Holt sits down with, Craig Mutton, Chief Digital Officer and Vice President of Digital at the University of Canberra. With a wealth of experience across diverse industries, Craig is passionate about solving complex business challenges and driving organizational change through innovation, strategic thinking, and high-performing teams. He’s a strong advocate for diversity and uses approaches like design thinking and agile to create impactful solutions. Alongside his executive roles, Craig serves as a Non-Executive Director, supporting community-focused organizations with his strategic and business expertise.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo's Regional Director of Partners for EMEA Hannah Gardner sits down with Tania Struetzel, Director of Student Success at Southampton Solent University. Tania is an experienced student engagement practitioner who leads the Student Success Service, which focuses on employability, student services, and achievement. With extensive experience working in and with Students' Unions, she also serves as an External Trustee at Beds SU. Tania holds a PGCert in Student Engagement in Higher Education, where she links theoretical approaches to practical, institutional outcomes, making her a key figure in driving student success and engagement in higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallett sits down with Chris Ronan, CEO of the Country Universities Centre (CUC) and National President of the Society for the Provision of Education in Rural Australia (SPERA). With over a decade of leadership experience in the higher education sector, Chris has been at the forefront of equity and engagement initiatives aimed at improving access to education in rural and regional Australia. Under his leadership, CUC has expanded its support for rural students, providing pathways to higher education for underserved communities. Chris’s commitment to transforming education outcomes in remote areas continues to shape the future of rural education in Australia.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Professor Kylie Readman, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President of Education and Students at the University of Technology Sydney. A visionary leader with extensive experience in higher education, Kylie is dedicated to enhancing student success, fostering inclusive communities, and driving innovation. With a background in education, the performing arts, and a distinguished research record, she’s recognized for her commitment to advancing professional practice in higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Chris Baker-Brow sits down with Professor Alejandro Armellini, the Dean of Digital and Distributed Learning at the University of Portsmouth. Professor Armellini, a PFHEA ( Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy), FRSA ( Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts ), and National Teaching Fellow, has made significant contributions to the field of education through his roles in digital and distributed learning.
Before joining Portsmouth in 2020, he was the Dean of Learning and Teaching at the University of Northampton, where he led the Learning and Teaching plan, enhancing student outcomes and staff recognition. He also spearheaded the Active Blended Learning (ABL) transformation, shaping the design of Northampton’s Waterside campus.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Don Albert Klinger, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Education at Murdoch University. Don plays a vital role in making higher education accessible and achieving high-quality outcomes for students, focusing on equity, diversity, inclusion, First Nations, and sustainability.
He has held significant roles such as Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education at the University of Waikato, and leadership positions with the Canadian Society for the Study of Education and the Consortium for Research on Educational Assessment and Teaching Effectiveness.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Jenny Shaw, the Higher Education External Engagement Director at Unite Students. With extensive experience in UK student and applicant experience, student accommodation, and student mental health policy, Jenny works closely with higher education institutions to understand today’s students and find innovative ways to meet their needs. Her dedication to improving student well-being and enhancing the overall student experience has made her a leading voice in the sector.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Romy Lawson, the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Flinders University. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years, Romy has significantly contributed to enhancing student learning experiences and academic leadership. Her expertise lies in curriculum design, quality assurance, and institutional strategic planning. Romy’s research interests include learning and teaching leadership, assessment, and feedback. Dedicated to advancing higher education, she actively participates in several advisory boards and professional organizations.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Maree, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Students at James Cook University. With over 20 years of experience, Maree has made an outstanding contribution to innovative, contemporary, and authentic curriculum, assessment, and course design, engaging both students and colleagues. Her research focuses on health and physical education curriculum, curriculum change, and assessment literacy, with recent work on Indigenous games and their cultural significance. Committed to the education community, Maree serves on numerous advisory and reference committees.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Martin McCarron, an Executive Director at the University of Adelaide. Martin brings expertise across all areas of management, staff development, strategic planning, communications, and project management. Known for managing complex change management projects with innovative approaches, Martin focuses on continuous improvement and achieving organisational goals. As a skilled leader with a collaborative style, Martin is passionate about education and dedicated to building long-term relationships and empowering teams to achieve outstanding results.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Chris Baker-Brown sits down with Sammy Massia, Former chief information officer at the University of Northampton. Sammy is a digital information and technology leader known for delivering value through innovative technology strategies. He has led teams across infrastructure, service delivery, digital learning, cyber security, and more.He has also held notable positions such as Chief Information Officer at St. Mary’s University, Twickenham, Director of Information Technology at Royal Holloway, University of London, and as a Member of the Strategic Advisory Group at Advance HE. He also served on the Board of Trustees at The Orpheus Centre.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Chris Baker-Brown sits down with Esther Spring, the Organisational Learning Lead (Digital and Data Capabilities, Innovation and Sustainability) at The Open University. Esther is an accomplished leader in learning and development, with extensive experience in online learning, digital transformation, and sustainability. She excels in developing strategies for organisational growth, leveraging data for decision-making, and managing diverse teams. Known for her collaborative leadership and strategic workforce planning skills, Esther shares her insights on driving innovation and exceeding stakeholder expectations. Join us as we delve into her expertise in transforming higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Neville Hiscox, the Chief Student Services Officer at Curtin University. With executive accountability for strategic leadership across a diverse portfolio, He is dedicated to driving organizational growth through people development and modern technology adoption. Recognized for his inclusive leadership style, excellence in performance, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders, Neville has also served as Chairperson of the Board of Directors for Heads of Student Administration (HoSA). Join us as we explore his insights on delivering innovative services.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Regional Director of Partners for EMEA Hannah Gardner sits down with Carmen Miles. She is the Interim Head of Digital Education and VLE Project Director at De Montfort University, where she leads the implementation of the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and oversees the provision of distance learning. Carmen is an innovative leader and creator of inclusive online learning experiences, passionate about making education accessible for all. Additionally, Carmen is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, reflecting her dedication and expertise in higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Chris Baker-Brown sits down with Jo-Anne Murray. She is the Vice-Principal Education at University of Aberdeen where she is responsible for the overall success of university partnerships and works with senior executive-level colleagues within Universities to define and deliver strategic vision for online distance learning. Jo-Anne is also a highly experience equine nutritionist and researcher and has led and participated in a range of research activities in education and in animal nutrition, with over 130 published peer reviewed articles.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Chris Baker-Brown sits down with Andy Beggan from the University of Lincoln. He is the Dean of Digital Education at the University. Andy is an experienced learning technologist and Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy ( SFHEA ) with a successful track record of delivering digital learning to a global audience within the HE, corporate training and e-learning production sectors.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Regional Director of Partners for EMEA Hannah Gardner sits down with Monica Jones. She is the Chief Data Officer at the University of Leeds. Monica is a technical expert and leader with extensive education, science and technology, healthcare knowledge and experience. She is currently the Chair of Data Design Authority (DDA) at the Health Data Research UK.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Chris Baker-Brown sits down with Caroline Tolond. Caroline is the Head of Careers and Employability at Arden University. She is passionate about creating institutional-wide strategies for delivering excellence in employability and careers, building innovative and creative teams, and implementing technology to enable career information, advice, and guidance accessible to all students, regardless of their background and circumstances.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Head of Partner Engagement for APAC, Lyndin Francis sits down with Hiedi Wilkinson from the University of the Sunshine Coast. She is currently the Equity Impact Evaluation Analyst at the University. She believes in doing work that matters, connecting with great people, and contributing to an extraordinary journey.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder Ben Hallet sits down with Sukhwant Jhaj, Vice Provost for Academic Innovation and Student Achievement at Arizona State University. In his role as vice provost, Jhaj pursues ways to create greater levels of student success for all learners across all degree types. He works to identify new ways the university can improve learning outcomes and helps ASU set a new standard of quality and accessibility that can be shared with institutions of higher education around the country and the world. In addition to his role in the Office of the University Provost, Jhaj is the dean of University College, an instrumental and significant part of ASU’s efforts to enhance retention, graduation, and overall student achievement.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founders, Joel Di Trapani & Ben Hallet sits down with Robert H. McDonald, Dean of University Libraries/Sr. Vice Provost of Online and Extended Education at the University of Colorado Boulder. He is active professionally with several national and international organizations and conferences, serving on the Association of Research Libraries Board of Directors, the Board of Directors of the Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries, the HathiTrust Board of Governors, and as general co-chair for the ACM/IEEE Joint Conference on Digital Libraries in 2013 and 2017.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founders, Joel Di Trapani sits down with Paul Le Blanc, President of Southern New Hampshire University. Paul is also an Ascend Fellow at the Aspen Institute which is a premier leadership program advancing opportunity and equity. He was a winner of the Global Leadership Award in 2018. He is also a current Board advisor at the Guild Education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founders, Joel Di Trapani & Ben Hallett sits down with Marie Papazian, the Executive Vice President of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges. Marie is an experienced higher education leader committed to innovation, impact, and inclusion with over a decade of experience as President & CEO of two public universities including San Jose State University. She was also the board chair of the Business-Higher Education Forum.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast,Vygo’s Regional Director of Partners for EMEAHannah Gardner sits down with Mark Crittenden from the University of Greenwich. He is the Associate Director of Student Centres and Engagement. He was a member of the board of trustees in the Association of University Administrators (AUA).
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Ben Hallet sits down with Dr Ryan Goodwin from the University of Central Florida. He is the Assistant Vice President for Strategy & Innovation and Chief of Staff. Ryan’s research and practice focus on higher education innovations that improve access, success, and completion for all. He is particularly interested in the educational systems and organizational structures that influence student movement to and through postsecondary education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Joel Di Trapani sits down with Mary Ellen Wiltrout from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She is the Director of Online and Blended Learning. Mary is also a Lecturer in Digital Learning. She enjoys training and mentoring postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates. She also manages three of the best online courses in Class Central.
Ben sits down with Professor Robyn Latimer OAM from Torrens University. Robyn is currently the Director - Learning Services at the University. She is an Experienced professional with a demonstrated history of working in design, education and not-for-profit industries. Robyn was also the president of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s APAC Director of Partner Engagement, Lyndin Francis sits down with Dr.Kylie Austin from the University of Wollongong . She is currently the Associate Director of Student Equity and Success and has been with the University for over 15 years in key positions covering student affairs, student partnerships and outreach. Dr. Austin is also the current president of Equity Practitioners in Higher Education Australasia (EPHEA).
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Joel Di Trapani sits down with Gareth Trainer from the University of Sunderland. He is currently the Head of the Centre for Graduate Prospects at the University. The Centre for Graduate Prospects (CfGP) embeds employability and enterprise across the University of Sunderland, creating confident and motivated students who develop into professional, adaptable, and engaged graduates with rich and rewarding life and career prospects.
Prior to this role, he held multiple positions at the University of Newcastle, where he led the University’s employability, enterprise and entrepreneurship functions and spearheaded major initiatives aligned with the University's Vision and Strategy. Gareth is also an Honorary Fellow of Enterprise Educators UK and a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce.
In this episode of the student edition of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Sharna Silloux, Vygo’s Global Community Lead, sits down with Natasha Do from Deakin University. She graduated this year from Deakin University with a Bachelor of Nutrition Science and Commerce, majoring in Management and is currently a Partnership Consultant at BUPA.
In this episode of the student edition of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Sharna Silloux, Vygo’s Global Community Lead, sits down with Dr.Dinesh Palipana from Griffith University. He is a researcher and senior lecturer at Griffith University and works in the emergency department at the Gold Coast University Hospital.
Dinesh is a doctor, lawyer, disability advocate, and researcher and was the first quadriplegic medical intern in Queensland. Dinesh is a senior advisor to the Disability Royal Commission, an ambassador to the Human Rights Commission’s Includeability program and a founding member of Doctors with Disabilities Australia. He was the third Australian to be awarded a Henry Viscardi Achievement Award and was the Queensland Australian of the Year for 2021.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s VP of Partners, James Grew sits down with Hannah Giles from Coventry University. She is currently the Student Success Lead Practitioner at the University.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Regional Director of Partners for EMEA, Hannah Gardner sits down with Sam Grogan from the University of Salford. He is currently the Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience at the University. Following an early career in the creative industries, Sam has spent the last decade and a half in student-centric leadership positions within a range of higher education institutions. Alongside work at Salford, Sam continues to work in leadership and thought leadership nationally and internationally, building on a range of external engagements and board experiences.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s APAC Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis sits down with Kevin Ashford-Rowe from the Queensland University of Technology. He is currently the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning and Teaching) at the University and the institutional lead for the digital transformation of the University’s teaching and learning experience. Kevin has a wealth of experience in strategic leadership, management, development and implementation of innovative and flexible education and training delivery at all levels of curriculum design, development, and delivery.
Ben sits down with Tania Struetzel from the University of Greenwich. She is currently the Head of Student Engagement and Success at the University. Before joining Greenwich, she worked across Students' Unions and Universities, including Middlesex University where she was the institutional project lead for the TSEP Inclusive Engagement project exploring the experience of student representatives identifying as students of colour. She was also previously a member of the student engagement network RAISE committee and a member of the QAA Student Strategic Advisory Committee.
Ben sits down with David Whyte from Torrens University. David is currently the Head of Student Wellbeing & Diversity at the University. His role focuses on the well-being of students at every stage of their student journey, as well as building a strong, diverse and active student community and representation within the University.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Joel Di Trapani sits down with Ben Lewis from Cardiff University. Ben is currently the Director of Student Life at the University. Ben's previous roles include being the Chair of AMOSSHE (The Student Services Organisation), Policy Adviser for the HEFCE (Higher Education Funding Council for England) and the Deputy Head of the Electoral Commission Wales Office.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s APAC Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis sits down with Damon Ferris from the University of Newcastle. Damon is currently the Director - International for Global Engagement and Partnerships at the University.
Ben sits down with Louise Batchelor from Bond University. Louise is currently the Registrar at the University and has an extensive career with senior positions all across Australia, from the University of Notre Dame, the Australian Maritime College, Curtin University and Victoria University.
Ben sits down with Brett Berquist from the University of Canterbury. Brett is the Assistant Vice Chancellor - Engagement at the University. He brings three decades of university experience in several countries, from lecturer to department head to senior administrator. His passion is collaboratively developing and implementing strategies to help institutions address changing conditions, demographics, and objectives.
Ben sits down with Christa Smith from the Sheridan Institute of Higher Education. Christa is currently the Director of Student Services at the Institute and is passionate about quality education for students of every age. She enjoys working with and supporting students, especially international students, to achieve their goals.
Ben sits down with Aron Cornwall from the Australian Catholic University. Aaron is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families realise the possibilities available in higher education. Currently the Student Veteran Services Manager at the university, Aaron is on the ground developing and implementing support to student veterans completing tertiary study. Having served as a Combat Engineer within the ADF and deploying as a High-Risk Searcher during Mentoring Task Force 3 (MTF-3), Aaron can speak firsthand of the challenges faced post-service.
Ben sits down with Prof.Fion Lim from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Fion is currently the Director of the UTS Learning Centre (SILC) and has over a decade of experience in various forms of international education. Fion’s research interests explore various aspects of international education, particularly third-party arrangements, academic governance, quality assurance and management and teaching and learning in the international education space. Fion is an award winner for her PhD thesis and a recipient of the Association for Tertiary Education Management’s (ATEM) Best Practice Award in the category of Excellence in Governance and Policy.
Ben sits down with Dr.Leanne Holt from Macquarie University. She has over twenty-five years of experience in the higher education sector and is the inaugural Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Strategy) at the University. Dr.Holt is the Immediate Past President of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Higher Education Consortium (NATSIHEC) and serves on a range of boards, committees and government expert panels, focusing on the advancement of Indigenous education. Previously at the University of Newcastle as co-Director of the Wollotuka Institute, Dr Holt led Wollotuka to be the first in Australia to achieve international accreditation through the World Indigenous Higher Education Consortium (WINHEC) and is the current Deputy Co-Chair of this organisation.
Ben sits down with David Morales from Western Governors University. He is the Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President at the University, where he is responsible for all technology aspects of the Institution. He has over 19 years of experience as a Software Engineer and Technology Leader. He has worked for different companies during his career, from a Research and Development centre for NASA, litigation support, technology consulting firms to Retail Fortune 1. He is passionate about solving business problems with the right technology.
Ben sits down with Chris Shelley from the University of Greenwich. Chris is the Director of Student and Academic Services at the University, where he leads a range of services and functions that are crucial to the student experience. Previously, he was the Director of Student Services at King’s College London, where he revitalised the health and wellbeing services and integrated multiple functions to improve the impact on students. Chris is an alumnus of the Liverpool Hope University and Chair of the Trustee Board at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust.
Ben sits down with Alice Wilby from University College Birmingham. She is the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Access, Participation and Student Experience) at the University and her role focuses on ensuring the University attracts students from a wide range of backgrounds and supports them during their studies, reporting on progress to external bodies and regulators. Alice joined the University in February 2020 having previously worked at the University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University and the University of Wolverhampton. Her past roles covered access and participation, student recruitment and institutional partnerships.
Ben sits down with Prof.Kris Ryan from Monash University. Kris has been with the University since 2009 and is currently the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), leading a portfolio that includes student experience, diversity and inclusion, education innovation, education policy and HEPPP (Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program) funding. Previously, Kris was the Academic Director of Monash Education Innovation, where he led a multidisciplinary team to establish and implement the University-wide education technology roadmap and contributed to the design of innovative learning and teaching spaces across Monash.
Ben sits down with Dr.Julie Greenwood from Arizona State University. Julie is the EdPlus Vice Dean for Educational Initiatives and in this role, she works with the academic units at all ASU campuses, including deans, department chairs, faculty and staff to strengthen online programming, including driving course development that transforms student learning experiences. In addition, she is the EdPlus liaison to the University Innovation Alliance and the APLU Personalized Learning Consortium.
Ben sits down with Prof. Jonathan Shaw from the Coventry University Group. He is a professor of photography and media and the director of Coventry University’s disruptive media learning lab. Jonathan has been actively engaged as an interdisciplinary practitioner and academic leader with Higher Education for nearly 20 years. During the past 10 years, he has been instrumental in driving innovation within curricula design, envisioning next-generation learning spaces and leading the implementation of cutting edge educational technology initiatives.
Ben sits down with Tanya Rutherford, the CEO & founder of Learn Grow Become. Tanya is a highly experienced program designer, facilitator, mentor and coach in both leadership and education; with a significant background in management accounting and business management spanning several industries in both Australia and the UK. She holds a master's in business administration (Leadership & Communication) from Deakin University and a bachelor's of business (Accounting and IT) from La Trobe University.
Ben sits down with Jessica Luquin from the University of New South Wales. Jessica currently leads the student engagement team at the university. Her team aims to ensure that every first-year student at UNSW has access to a qualified mentor and a quality orientation and transition experience. She is a qualified social worker with over 8 years of experience in working with students from low-SES and disadvantaged backgrounds.
Ben sits down with Kerry Valentine from Laureate International Universities. She has a long history of involvement in the industry of international education at both an instructional and management level and is currently the Head of Student Experience at Laureate International Universities. Her previous engagements involved leadership roles at Curtin University & Study Group Australia.
Ben sits down with Matt Hoskins from Griffith University Gold Coast Student Guild. He is currently the Head of Student Services and leads nine very talented teams in the delivery of a range of programs, events and services at the Gold Coast campus, including initiatives around student wellbeing, academic support and diversity. Matt is a proud product of Griffith University and brings over 10 years of experience in the field of student support and engagement.
Ben sits down with Georgia Baker from the University of Queensland. She is currently the International Student Advisor for the faculty of engineering, architecture and information technology at the university and has been with the University for over 10 years. Since graduating with a master's degree in International Studies from the University of Queensland, she has focused her career on international partnerships, student mobility and international student support.
Ben sits down with Jodie Davis from University of Newcastle. Jodie is the associate director of student engagement at the University. She has over two decades of experience in higher education working in a broad range of roles, including senior positions, at the University of Newcastle and GraduateSchool.com Pty Ltd (GradSchool). Her educational background, combined with extensive employment history, provides her with a distinctive blend of design thinking, education, business knowledge and experience.
Ben sits down with Belinda Tynan from RMIT. She is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) and Vice-President at the University with extensive executive leadership experience in Higher Education and Vocational Education of over 10 years. Belinda is the winner of the Australian Financial Review's Top 100 Women of Influence (Board and Management Category) in 2019 and in 2020 the Telstra Businesswoman of the Year's Victorian Winner (Academia and Professional Category).
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Ben sits down with Ian Dunn from Coventry University Group. Ian has been with the University since 1992 and is currently the Provost . In 2016 he was awarded “Inspiring Leader” of the year in the Guardian Higher Education Awards. Ian led the development of the University’s colleges in Coventry and Scarborough. A Coventry graduate, he is a member of the jobs and skills group of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and a board member of the Midlands Academies Trust.
Ben sits down with Emeritus Professor Beverley Oliver. Beverley was Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and Alfred Deakin Professor at Deakin until December 2018 and led Deakin's ambitious Student Learning and Experience strategy. She was the Deputy Chair of Universities Australia’s Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Academic) and Deputy Chair of the Board of EduGrowth, a not-for-profit Australian acceleration network for high-growth, scalable, borderless education. She currently works as a higher education consultant and continues to research, publish and present on topics such as digital education, micro-credentials, curriculum transformation, quality assurance and graduate employability.
Ben sits down with Rafael Estrada from Anáhuac Online. Rafael is the Academic Director - Anáhuac Online at Anahuac University based in Mexico. He holds holds a Doctorate in International Education from the Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, a Master's Degree in Human Capital Management and an Industrial Engineering Degree in Administration from the Universidad Anáhuac.
Ben sits down with Phillip Scharf from Arizona State University. Phillip has been with the University (ASU) since 2005. During that time he has been responsible for the creation of the pre-professional advising office at ASU combining the pre-health and pre-law advising activities around campus into a unified office. For the past 5 years, Phillip has overseen the advising and retention efforts of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS).
Ben sits down with Michael Burgess from Western Sydney University. Michael Burgess joined Western Sydney University in February 2016 as the Chief Student Experience Officer and brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in complex consumer environments. Michael is a creative innovator with extensive experience in business strategy, customer experience, marketing communications, digital strategy, brand development and data analytics.
Professor Mark Hoffman is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and a Vice-President of the University of Newcastle.
In this role he is responsible for the academic activities of the University including its education programs, encompassing: enabling and pathways programs; the Wollotuka Institute for advancement and leadership of Indigenous education; and education innovation and technology. His portfolio includes student health and wellbeing, work integrated learning, careers and employment, academic administration and student conduct. Prof Hoffman’s responsibilities include academic promotions and staff and student equity, diversity and inclusion.
In today's episode, Ben chats with Liam Kenna from Wirltu Yarlu - The University of Adelaide's Indigneous and Torres Straight Islander arm of the University.
You can learn more about the program here: www.adelaide.edu.au/wirltu-yarlu/
You can learn more about Vygo here: www.vygoapp.com
Ben chats with fellow Vygo Co-Founder, Joel Di Trapani.
Learn more about Vygo here: www.vygoapp.com