Through our annual Unitec Staff Excellence Awards we recognise and celebrate the amazing work that our people have contributed to Unitec.
Our 2024 finalists are:
Excellence in Teaching and Excellence in Early Career Teaching (two awards)
Pauline Bishop – Senior Lecturer, Community Studies
Pauline works hard to achieve diversity and inclusion for improving outcomes for Māori learners; Pacific learners; neurodiverse learners; and/or learners with disabilities. She constantly raises issues and voices for these learners. She has been teaching at Unitec for over 18 years and every semester at the farewell ceremony, the graduates specifically thank her for teaching with aroha, often mentioning her specifically in their speeches. She brings in respectable guests from external sources that add immense value to our programme.
*Winner* New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing Level 3 Team: Jake Curran, John Pepere, David Ryan, Mark Lawson, Richard Boynton, Brian Rowan, Trent Barclay
The Level 3 Plumbing Team’s innovative and student-centred approach to teaching has transformed Unitec’s programme into a national benchmark, consistently achieving outstanding student success rates, particularly among priority learners. Their teaching integrates cutting-edge technologies, sustainability practices, and real-world applications, preparing students for industry challenges while promoting environmental stewardship. Beyond technical training, the team excels in pastoral care, mentoring, and fostering an inclusive learning environment, leading with humour, empathy and patience. Their dedication extends to collaboration with industry stakeholders, enhancing employability for graduates and strengthening Unitec’s reputation.
*Winner* Vaughan Shepherd – Professional Practice Coordinator | Lecturer, School of Architecture
Vaughan is extremely organised and vigilant on all parts of course delivery and content. He has developed a range of astute and forward-thinking ways to achieve learning outcomes for the course and is rigorous and dedicated with marking and assessments. He is also on hand to assist ākonga via email when needed and is a strong proponent of Unitec’s policies and processes. He provides a strong role model for the School of Architecture and is respected for his mahi by colleagues and ākonga alike.
Craig Tunnicliffe – Lecturer, Healthcare & Social Practice
Craig is a passionate and articulate teacher who inspires his students to delve deeper into their learning. He brings complex concepts to life, making them accessible while validating students’ lived experiences and affirming the value of their knowledge. Approachable both inside and outside the classroom, Craig fosters a welcoming environment where students often seek his guidance during breaks. Over the past four years, he has consistently maintained high student survey scores and mentored newer lecturers in the programme. As a colleague, Craig is a supportive team player who fosters a positive and inclusive workplace.
*Winner* Lee-Anne Turton — Senior Lecturer, Bachelor of Teaching Early Childhood
Lee-Anne exemplifies Unitec’s value through her teaching and leadership of the Bachelor of Teaching Early Childhood programme. She fosters collaboration with ākonga, kaiako, and kaimahi to ensure the programme remains learner-centred and respected within the industry. Her creative and innovative teaching approaches engage ākonga effectively, particularly through her use of technology to enhance learning experiences. Her contributions to Ako Ahimura have significantly shaped learning and teaching practices across Unitec. Her work in mobile learning and ePortfolios and her pioneering efforts with AI and Cogniti highlight her commitment to educational innovation, benefiting both her team and the wider institution.
*Winner* Madhusudan Vyas – Senior Lecturer, Healthcare and Social Practice
Madhusudan Vyas is a dedicated educator whose student-centred approach places learners at the core of his practice, prioritising their success. He excels in teaching medical imaging, with a particular focus on radiation protection and imaging science. His innovative and effective teaching methods simplify complex concepts, creating an engaging learning environment that enhances student understanding and achievement. Beyond the classroom, Vyas actively contributes to curriculum development, ensuring the programme stays aligned with the latest advancements in medical imaging technology. His collaborative nature and mentorship of junior faculty members highlights his commitment to growing excellence in medical education.
Excellence in Teaching – Kaupapa Māori
Whaea Rangi Nathan – Bachelor of Teaching team
Since joining Unitec in 2015, Whaea Rangi Nathan has drawn on her academic expertise in adult literacy and personal journey as a te reo Māori learner to support ākonga transitioning into tertiary education. Her unwavering commitment to fostering responsive and reciprocal relationships with akongā has had a profound impact on our educational community. Her ability to create learning environments where akongā feel valued and understood has promoted an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust. She leads by example, demonstrating the importance of cultural competency and respect for all members of our community.
*Winner* Maia Ratana, Lecturer, School of Architecture
An Architect graduate, researcher and Māori Advisor, Maia has been instrumental in embedding kaupapa Māori principles into the teaching and research practices of the School of Architecture.
In her teaching and master’s supervision, Maia fosters a vital connection between students and kaupapa Māori researchers, ensuring research topics and processes honour Māori rangatiratanga. This approach benefits both Māori and tangata Tiriti students, deepening their understanding of the relationship between people and place. Her teaching extends to building respectful community collaborations, guiding students to integrate tikanga and whenua into their architectural designs.
Excellence in Research
*Winner* Associate Professor Nigel Adams – School of Environmental and Animal Sciences
Associate Professor Nigel Adams is a dedicated and prolific researcher whose leadership and collaboration have significantly enhanced Unitec’s research environment. In an outstanding contribution and extended several times in times of disruption, Nigel has generously served on the Unitec Research Ethics Committee for nearly 10 years, in a range of roles; initially as a committee member, then an extended term as Deputy Chair and finally as Chair. It is true to say that without his contribution and leadership, this important aspect of our academic ecosystem would not have served us as well as it has and with such constancy.
Daisy Bentley-Gray — Interim Manager Pacific Success
Daisy Bentley-Gray is a passionate advocate for Pasifika education and research, serving as the Pacific representative on Unitec’s Research, Academic, and Research Ethics Committees. In these roles, she influences policies and research standards to ensure cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Daisy’s leadership extends to the Unitec Pacific Research Fono, where she empowers Pacific research among Pacific staff, fostering a research-driven culture that highlights the unique perspectives and contributions of the Pasifika community. Beyond her leadership in committees and research forums, Daisy supports learners through academic literacy, study skills, and Pacific-focused workshops.
Dr Byron Rangiwai — Associate Professor of Māori and Indigenous Research, Ngā Wai a Te Tūī, Māori and Indigenous Research Centre
Associate Professor Byron Rangiwai (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Manawa, Ngāti Whare, Ngāi Tūhoe) is an expert in Māori and Indigenous studies, with two PhDs and 14 published articles on Te Umutaoroa. Since joining Ngā Wai a Te Tūī in 2024, he has submitted four external funding applications, securing Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga funding for a summer student intern project on ADHD in Māori communities and awaiting a $250k application outcome to MBIE’s Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund for climate adaptation research. He has produced 19 research outputs this year and actively contributes to Unitec’s research community, including serving on funding committees and judging panels.
Excellence in Early Career Research
Kate Harder – Lecturer, School of Environmental and Animal Sciences
As Unitec Veterinary Nursing Programme Coordinator, Kate Harder seamlessly integrates research into teaching and community outreach within the School of Environmental and Animal Sciences. She has led studies on parasite infections of pets in Tonga, produced two Quality Assured outputs in 2024, along with a journal article and a conference presentation on canine hookworm presence in Tongatapu, Tonga. Collaborating with Australian universities, Kate has advanced veterinary research in Tonga and New Zealand, earning international recognition for her efforts. By combining fundamental and applied research, she not only strengthens veterinary research in the Pacific but also inspires students to consider veterinary nursing as a valuable research field.
*Winner* Dr Sameh Shamout – Lecturer, Architecture
Sameh has created a unique medium blending visual art and theatre, carving a niche within the creative scope of the architectural discipline. His original, living architectural-art research has evolved from a poetic novel into a unique fusion of performance art, musical poetry and theatrical storytelling. His solo performance “Whispers from the Windows of Palestine” bridges Māori and Palestinian theatre in a distinctive indigenous innovation. The show toured nationally with performances at events including Auckland Writers Festival and Auckland Fringe, gaining media coverage and significant online conversation.
Supporting Pacific Learners Award
Peter Rees – Publicity & Events Coordinator, Creative Industries
Peter wears many hats in supporting academic staff for championing the Pacific voice on behalf of our learners and communities. In his role as Publicity and Events Coordinator, Peter has demonstrated exceptional relationship building with industry stakeholders, Pacific staff, students and other Unitec teams to foster the ongoing partnerships with the Creative Industries teams to ensure our Pacific learners get appropriate academic, cultural and pastoral support. He demonstrates the values of Te Noho Kotahitanga in rangatiranga and wakaritenga to use his brilliant digital marketing skills to bring content alive through sharing stories, student events, gallery exhibitions in different social media platforms and in the Creative Industries weekly newsletter.
*Winner* Sana Saleem – Subject Librarian (Pacific)
As the Pacific Librarian at Unitec, Sana works closely with academic staff to ensure that our Pacific students have access to the appropriate library resources to use for their studies and research. She champions the Pacific voice in the Unitec library space by ensuring that culturally relevant materials are readily available. Sana upholds and demonstrates the values of Te Noho Kotahitanga in sharing her Pacific knowledge to her students through storytelling and talanoa and is actively involved in Pacific events across the campus. Her participation has strengthened cultural connections and created a sense of belonging for both students and staff, helping to advance initiatives that promote both academic achievement and cultural success.
Outstanding Contribution by a Project Team
Unitec Pacific Day 2024 Project Team – Venusi Taumoepeau, Ioane Aleke Fa’avae, Daisy Bentley-Gray, Sana Saleem, Amy Jesensek and Sara Wang
The Unitec Pacific Day 2024 Project Team, made up of Pacific Centre, Library and Ask Me teams, all worked together to initiate the first ever Pacific Day event at Mt Albert to acknowledge and celebrate the Pacific Language weeks 2024. This successful collaboration demonstrates the values of Te Noho Kotahitanga in true partnership with the three different teams coming together to create high quality sustainable resources used for Pacific Language weeks series. The Pacific Day brought together diverse communities to celebrate the rich cultures of 12 Pacific countries by 12 vibrant stalls. Over 100 attendees came out to ‘The Fale’ to support this event.
*Winner* Unitec Rainbow + Ally Network – Amy Jesensek, Laura Harvey, Mirela Szekely, Sofia Chambers, Nathalie Dussart, Rachel Caddy, Rob Gambolati, Sue Crossan, Annette Pitovao, Maree Lightfoot, Chloe McMenamin, Claire Bruce, Caralyn Kemp, Nigel Pizzini.
This small, passionate team of kaiako and staff, working outside their allocated workloads, has transformed Unitec into a safer, more welcoming environment for rainbow ākonga and staff. From creating non-binary toilets, running diverse workshops, to providing pronoun resources, establishing the Rainbow Room, and updating the rainbow flags at both campuses, the team has made significant progress in fostering belonging and support for rainbow communities at Unitec.
Excellence in Support
- Excellence in Support: Supports Staff Systems and Processes
Adrian Jenkins – Subject Librarian
Adrian has demonstrated outstanding support for academic staff and students in their research efforts by efficiently providing access to a broad range of information materials not held by Unitec Library, primarily through the Interlibrary Loan service. His expertise in quickly sourcing hard-to-find resources from a vast network of libraries and online platforms worldwide has been instrumental in enabling academic staff to produce more relevant, high-quality research outputs. His ability to locate even the most obscure resources is exceptional, and his diligent work has significantly contributed to the success of many student-led and staff-focused research projects.
Katrina McMillan – Financial Management Accountant
As a management accountant, Katrina has managed financial resources effectively, ensuring sustainability while meeting staff and student needs. Her collaborative approach has improved financial processes and aligned them with team goals. Katrina provides clear and accurate financial reporting, enabling informed decision-making and building trust among colleagues. She combines financial expertise with leadership, offering insights and resolving challenges efficiently. Her approachable and supportive manner has consistently helped the team, making her a strong candidate for this recognition.
*Winner* Simon Tries – Director, Te Korowai Kahurangi
Simon has been an invaluable asset to the Environmental and Animal Sciences (EAS) team, providing ongoing support and guidance through numerous programme developments and changes over the past year. Often tasked with the demanding role of delivering difficult news, Simon pushes his team to elevate their standards by setting an example with his remarkable approach. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the EAS team through complex programme developments, including unified programme challenges. He tirelessly supports his teams, always ready to tackle the challenges of quality and compliance. Simon has been described as the protective shell that safeguards us all. His dedication, leadership, and unwavering support make him an invaluable asset to the school.
- Excellence in Support: Directly supports students in their journey at Unitec
*Winner* Richard Eriksen – Customer Service Assistant
Richard has been a dedicated member of Unitec for nearly 10 years, consistently providing outstanding service to students. This year, he led two impactful projects: the Study Rooms Audit and Te Puna Reset which have had a significant impact for students and staff. From conducting detailed assessment of rooms, to producing a comprehensive report and coordinating with Facilities Management and IT to resolve identified issues, Richard’s efforts demonstrate exceptional leadership, responsiveness, and dedication to enhancing the student experience.
Emma Hall – Assistive Technology Advisor, Access4Success Disability Service
Emma ensures learning is inclusive and accessible for all every student at Unitec. She supports them by not only introducing tools and technologies that remove barriers to education, but also helps boost confidence and independence. Emma also collaborates closely with teaching and support staff, sharing her expertise to improve their understanding of assistive tools. Her proactive approach to researching new resources and connecting with external agencies, ensures students and staff are equipped with effective tools for success.
Donna Salmon, Subject Librarian
With a relentless commitment to supporting both ākonga and kaimahi, Donna has shown a willingness to lead new projects and introduce innovative initiatives alongside her core responsibilities. Beyond the GenAI project which she led with enthusiasm, Donna continues to support the Schools of Applied Business and Bridging Education, responding to high demand from Master of Applied Practice (Business) students for library and information needs and learning.
Pa Tepairu Tere – Student Central Advisor
Pa Tepairu Tere is a dedicated and compassionate Student Central Advisor whose contributions have had a significant impact on students, colleagues, and the wider Unitec whānau, particularly at the Waitākere campus. Known for her warmth and empathy, Pa creates a welcoming environment where every student feels valued and supported. Her ability to address complex issues with patience and care has earned her the trust and respect of both students and staff. Beyond her student-focused role, Pa actively mentors new team members, sharing her knowledge and fostering growth within the team. Her dedication to creating a sense of community at Waitākere has made the campus a nurturing and supportive space.
- Excellence in Support: Supports teachers to deliver education to our students
*Winner* Jacqui Jansen – Healthcare Business Administrator
Overseeing more than 30 contractual agreements across the health sector, Jaqui facilitates approximately 400 student placements annually. She collaborates closely with Te Pūkenga lawyers to maintain and safeguard these contracts, demonstrating exceptional legal acumen. Her meticulous attention to detail allows her to identify and resolve errors in external processes and invoices, often saving significant costs. Jaqui’s responsibilities also include managing business cases, budgets, recruitment, travel, and conference expenses, ensuring seamless support for the Head of School and APMs. Her ability to juggle these diverse tasks is a cornerstone of the school’s success, making her an invaluable asset to the team.
Adrian Jenkins – Subject Librarian
In his role as the Subject Librarian, Adrian provides exceptional support to students and staff at Unitec, particularly within the Architecture and Environmental and Animal Sciences departments. Through his expertise with the Interlibrary Loan service, Adrian ensures timely access to specialised and hard-to-find resources, enabling high-quality research outputs for academic staff and success in student-led projects. His passion for his work, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable colleague. Adrian’s contributions significantly enhance the academic and research capabilities of Unitec.
Donna Salmon – Subject Librarian
Donna has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting teachers and ākonga. Her ability and willingness to lead new projects such as on GenAI has guided her teams through the complexities of GenAI, resulting in a highly successful and well-received presentation. Beyond this project, Donna continues to support the Schools of Applied Business and Bridging Education, responding to high demand from Master of Applied Practice (Business) students. She also contributes as a valued member of the Ako Ahimura Learning & Teaching Committee. Donna’s ability to balance her core responsibilities with innovative initiatives makes her an invaluable asset to Unitec.
Sustained outstanding contribution to Unitec
*Winner* Raymond Chiu – Electrical Engineering Technician
Over his 25 years of dedicated service, Raymond has been a cornerstone of support for both staff and students, consistently going above and beyond his duties. He has worked tirelessly to maintain, repair, and rebuild essential equipment, often spotting and resolving maintenance needs before they become apparent to others. As a technician, he has been instrumental in supporting all of our courses, from certificate to degree levels, ensuring that training requirements are always met with the highest standards. His flexibility in stepping in when needed has provided invaluable support to the team and demonstrates his strong dedication to student success and the continuity of learning.
Denyse Martin – Apprentice Administration Lead, Trades and Services
Denyse has dedicated 33 years’ of service to Unitec, making an indelible mark on the School of Trades through her exceptional administrative expertise. She has masterfully navigated and developed the most user-friendly complex systems and processes, ensuring our operations run smoothly and efficiently. Her unparalleled administration skills have been our school’s backbone, allowing us to thrive and excel in our mission. Her unwavering commitment to our students is incredible. She champions the cause of all our learners with the same passion and dedication as any teacher, particularly our Plumbing Apprentices. Her student-centred approach has had a profound impact, fostering an environment where every student feels supported and valued.
*Winner* Hung Ngo – Operations Manager – Timetabling
A true kaitiaki, Hung shares his vast knowledge of Unitec by continuously striving towards an equitable use of space and resources for everyone. Dealing with the complexity of reducing space, Hung has still been able to lead his team to complete yearly timetables to manaaki learner success, while at the same time contributing to maintaining our sustainability and growth. In addition to excelling in his day-to-day role, Hung consistently encourages the health and wellbeing of staff by coaching and organising the badminton club at Unitec. His dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging environment has made the club a beloved outlet for students and staff.
Te Noho Kotahitanga Team Award
*Winner* Applied Business Student Support team: Grace Zhang, Lubna Khan, Cindy Wee, Donna Salmon, Denise McIntyre, Diane Tamati, Mirabel Sygrove, Rokosiga Morrison, Venusi Taumoepeau
This cross-services team tirelessly provides academic and pastoral support to both domestic and international ākonga at the School of Applied Business. They go the extra mile to offer a sense of warmth and security, especially with ākonga who are struggling with homesickness and illness or coping with a new learning environment, and finding a safe space for them. Each new semester sees them presenting workshops, and working with teaching staff to address assignment issues, research and writing skills. They also support ākonga with learning disabilities and provide mental health well-being services and advice, while at the same time respecting the culture and traditions of each individual.
Events team – Duncan Kirkman, Romy Sunny, Nhi Nguyen, Kit Yim
This team’s dedication is not just remarkable, it’s inspiring; they work tirelessly, starting early in the morning and staying late into the night, to ensure the success of our events. Their outstanding contribution to Unitec’s recent Open Day, which achieved record-breaking attendance, is just one example of their impact. The Events team embodies Te Noho Kotahitanga’s principles in all they do. They create inclusive, welcoming environments and uphold tikanga in multiple spaces illustrating Kaitiakitanga. Mahi Kotahitanga, collaboration is at the heart of their work, bringing together all stakeholders internally and externally. They carry their responsibilities with great mana and show Ngākau Mahaki for all and kaimahi and ākonga, Unitec and Te Ao Māori.
International Student Support team: Grace Zhang, Rossana Reyes, Melody Hao, Lesley Hodgson, Joe Wang, Pranav Pota, Muhammad Sajjad, Nya Pitovao
The team has demonstrated excellence throughout the year by embodying our core values in every aspect of their mahi. They provide a safe and supportive environment, guiding students through their academic journey while also addressing emotional and social needs. For instance, during periods of uncertainty, they have organised resources and support systems to help students navigate challenges, ensuring their success and well-being. The spirit of Mahi Kotahitanga is at the core of their operations, as the team works collaboratively, both internally and with external partners, to create programmes and initiatives that benefit the entire student community. They celebrate cultural diversity, ensuring every student feels valued and included in the community.
Unitec Champion
- Jeffrey Wu – Student Central Manager, Student Support
Congratulations to all finalists & Winners!