ACEL Chief Executive Officer:
Thank you Dr Barbara Watterston
Dear ACEL Members,
On behalf of the National Board, I write to inform you that Dr Barbara Watterston notified the Board of her intention to conclude her service as Chief Executive Officer of ACEL in the latter part of 2025. We will deeply miss her exceptional leadership as she transitions to the next chapter of her distinguished career.
During her tenure as CEO, she has been instrumental in strengthening ACEL’s position as Australia’s premier organisation for educational leaders. Her unwavering commitment to a visionary approach for professional learning has seen our organisation thrive. Through her leadership, ACEL is now a vibrant and collaborative community that truly connects and engages with educators across all sectors.
Barbara’s legacy at ACEL is both significant and enduring. Her expertise in research, design and delivery of professional learning initiatives has transformed how we support leadership development. She has championed countless opportunities for educators to collaborate, exchange innovative ideas and collectively enhance the quality of education across Australian and beyond. The strong and favourable position ACEL enjoys today is a direct result of her strategic vision and dedicated leadership.
Her contributions extend far beyond our organisation. As a respected author, researcher and thought leader, Barbara has shaped national conversations about educational leadership. Her influential research on Principal preparation programs have resulted in lasting impacts on our profession. Her recognition as an Honorary Fellow of the University of Melbourne Faculty of Education, and inaugural recipient of the Women of Achievement Award reflects the esteem in which she is held across the education community.
Her passion for leadership sustainability, wellbeing and performance has been particularly valuable during challenging times. She steered ACEL successfully through the post-COVID reconfiguring of professional learning and has enhanced the value of ACEL to members and non-members alike. Her commitment to ensuring that educational leaders, irrespective of role, can deliver transformative learning outcomes has been a cornerstone of ACEL’s approach under her leadership. Under Barbara’s leadership we now enjoy increased diversity in membership and contribution through New Voice Scholars and NextGen initiatives.
We are profoundly grateful for Barbara’s dedication, her expertise and the positive transformation she has brought to ACEL. Her legacy of thoughtful, innovative and collaborative leadership will continue to guide our organisation as we look to our future. ACEL remains committed to continuing the important work Barbara has championed, building upon the strong foundation she has established for our organisation and our members. We will provide further updates regarding transition arrangements and position advertisement in the coming week. In the meantime, we ask you to join us in thanking Dr Barbara Watterston for her exemplary service and in wishing her every success in her future endeavours.
With Regards,
Liz Foster
ACEL National President