It’s been an incredible privilege to serve as ACEL CEO over the past five years. I step down with deep gratitude and immense pride in our profession. During this time, we have navigated a landscape of profound change - through challenge, disruption, and transformation - and emerged stronger, more connected, and more purposeful. Educators across the nation have demonstrated extraordinary courage, innovation, and compassion, reminding Australia of the vital role our profession plays in shaping a just and hopeful future. What an honour it has been to walk alongside you on this journey.
My heartfelt thanks go to the Board members and Presidents with whom I’ve had the privilege to serve, each bringing integrity, foresight, and deep commitment to steering ACEL through seasons of change and opportunity, united by a shared belief in the power of collective leadership. To our branch executives, editorial boards, and the many volunteers whose professional generosity is the lifeblood of this association, your contribution is a gift of leadership and service. And to our national office team, whose creativity, agility, and deep sense of purpose bring ACEL’s mission to life every day - you are the heartbeat of our organisation. Together, we have nurtured a culture that empowers, inspires, and amplifies the voices of all we serve.
As an association and connected community of professionals, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to purpose, advocacy, learning, and belonging. The theme of our recent conference, Amplifying every voice: Shaping our story, empowering all learners, was not just a call to action; it was a commitment to doing, with intention, integrity, and heart. The ACEL Statement of Commitment to the Profession of Teaching below illuminates this beautifully.
As a long-time ACEL member, it has always been about recognising the power of our collective voice, leading from the centre, and anchoring ourselves in what matters most: equity, impact, and connection. I leave with deep gratitude and great confidence in what lies ahead knowing that we are in the wonderful hands of our Board and President @Elizabeth Foster, and incoming CEO @Lisa Newland. I can’t wait to see the extraordinary chapters ACEL will write next.
With sincere thanks, warmest wishes, and unwavering optimism for the future,
Dr Barbara Watterston
ACEL CEO