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VADEA NSW 2014/15 EXECUTIVE POSITIONS

The Co-President -
Professional
Development
Kathrine Kyriacou: As Co- President in 2013/14 I worked to increase opportunities for PD through our
Inspire, Inspire Regional and Indulge programs. I worked with the executive guiding the development
of the annual conference and a range of PD resources and opportunities. I have been a Visual Art teacher
for 15 years and have a Masters in Art and Design education. I have been part of VADEA since its
inception, also serving previously as Research Officer and Assistant PD Officer. If elected Co-President I
would use the opportunity to work on making our association accessible and supportive to members and
an inspirational network for NSW art educators to engage with
The Co-President-
Membership,
Advocacy and
Support
Steve Collins: Since 1996 I have been Head of Visual Arts at Trinity Grammar School Sydney. During
that time I have been involved in several visual arts organizations including the AES, AIS visual Arts,
ArtNet (inner West). In 2013 I joined the VADEA executive as Promotions & Sponsorship Officer and
have been successfully involved in the last two VADEA conferences in that capacity. I have broadened
the sponsor base and revised the website and e-newsletter advertising structure and terms and
conditions. I applaud the wonderful work done by VADEA guiding NSW through turbulent National
Curriculum waters, however I now believe VADEA is now in a position to focus on additional important
issues and three that I am keen to be involved in are:
1. Recognizing the changing demands of professional development for teachers and promoting access to
affordable, high quality professional development for teachers in all regions of NSW, to gain the PD hours
necessary under new requirements.
2. To further develop the regional projects VADEA has begun, to create opportunities for regional centres
to host events and conferences.
3. Building dialogue and network support for teacher mentors and pre-service teachers undertaking in-
school placements to ensure quality outcomes.
If elected these are some of the issues I would like to pursue and hopefully add to the already rich
contributions made by previous co-presidents.
The Co-President-
State and National
Issues & Special
Projects






The Treasurer
Jo McKeown: I have been a Visual Arts teacher for 28 years during which time I have also been a
Deputy Principal, Curriculum Coordinator and Head of Visual Arts and Creative and Performing Arts, a
position I hold at my current school. I have also lectured at university in Visual Arts education in both
junior and secondary teachers. As the Treasurer in 2013-2014 I have provided ongoing advice about the
state of financial affairs of VADEA to the executive and managed the ongoing financial records of the
associations dealings with its members and external companies and organisations. I have handled the
Associations financial matters in a timely and accurate manner. I have provided advice on conference
budgeting, grants and funding and have introduced new procedures and protocols. I have been able to
provide assurance and certainty. If elected I intend to continue to manage the finances of the Association
well and introduce new accounting and operational procedures to ensure the smooth running of VADEA.
Melinda Hodges: My name is Melinda Hodges and I am nominating myself as treasurer on the VADEA
executive. I am a highly experienced passionate art educator. I possess strong administrative,
organisational and communication skills and am committed to financial and administrative future of the
institution. In my previous role as conference organiser and catering liaison I had a strong role in the
administrative and organisational side of working on the VADEA executive and am keen to extend my
skills into the position of treasurer for the 2014-2015 year. I am eager to build on our already strong
financial position by extending our links with our sponsors and promoting our institution now and into the
future.
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The Secretary
Lisa Allison: I have worked in a number of executive roles at Dulwich HSVAD, in both curriculum and
welfare capacities. This has given me experience working collaboratively as part of a team to implement
school policy and procedure. These roles also involved keeping confidential records, keeping minutes at
executive and faculty meetings, disseminating information in a timely fashion to a variety of stakeholders
and communicating effectively in a number of forums. I am a councillor for the Inner City Teachers
Association branch of the NSWTF, which allows me to voice the concerns of VADEA may have regarding
education policy and curriculum implementation. As a teacher at NSWs only specialist Visual Arts and
Design High School, I believe I would be an asset to the VADEA Executive Team.
Aaron Landers: I would like to apply for the role as secretary for VADEA. I am committed to attending all
meetings and the AGM over the course of the year. I have a high level of organizational and
interpersonal skills that would fit this role. I have worked as part of the Cranbrook School Portal team
(responsible for working between all departments to update and manage their online student pages) and
also as a library educator for over ten years and I currently in the final stages of completing my Bachelor
of art and design education degree at COFA, UNSW. I understand the function and administration of
formal meetings. Currently I take the faculty minutes each week that then are then passed onto the Dean
of Studies. I have a passion for Visual Art education and would be a dedicated member of the executive.
The Membership
Officer
Denise Perrin: As the current membership Officer, I have worked on the recruitment, management,
development and retention of members. I have worked with the broader VADEA Executive and
Administration at the Professional Teachers Council in coordinating membership and providing
communication between the PTC and the VADEA Executive to ensure the smooth running of events.
The Assistant
Professional
Development Officer
Sally Leaney: Assistant Professional Development Officer I, Sally Leaney, have been an Executive
Member of VADEA NSW since its inception. I have fulfilled the roles of Treasurer (1 year), and Secretary
(3 years). During the past year (2013-14), I have been successful in fulfilling the role of Assistant
Professional Development Officer, working closely with the Co-President of Professional Development,
Kathrine Kyriacou. As part of this role, I have planned and implemented a successful 'Inspire' day at
Dulwich High school of Visual Arts and Design in October 2013. I worked closely with the Co-President of
Professional Development, as well as a number of Executive and other members to put on a quality and
well-attended event. I have actively contributed to the VADEA NSW Executive during 2013-14 on a
number of other projects, including co-writing and designing the VADEA Education Kit for the recent
conference, as well as presenting at the ACU, VADEA NSW and Illinois State University Symposium
'Navigating Alternative Viewpoints in Art Education'
The Conference
Organiser Officer







The Promotions and
Sponsorship Officer
Sally Leaney: I, Sally Leaney, have been an Executive Member of VADEA NSW since its inception. I
have fulfilled the roles of Treasurer (1 year), and Secretary (3 years). During the past year (2013-14), I
have been successful in fulfilling the role of Assistant Professional Development Officer, working closely
with the Co-President of Professional Development, Kathrine Kyriacou. I am aware of the requirements of
the role of Promotions and Sponsorship Officer, and am willing to further VADEA's promotions and
sponsorship efforts. As part of this role, I will work closely with those knowledgeable in the role, and will
utilise effective organisation and communication skills to maintain current relationships, as well as to
establish new contacts where necessary. As per the role description, I would promote a professional
working relationship between VADEA and sponsors.
The Regional Support
Officer
Wendy Ramsay. I am a Visual Arts lecturer at UTS, curriculum advisor and presenter for ARTEXPRESS
and have previously held the position of state K-12 Visual Arts Advisor at the DET. As the current
VADEA Regional Support Officer, my aim is continue in this role in order to provide regional members
access to ongoing professional learning opportunities. I have established strong connections with visual
arts teachers across NSW which I am keen to maintain and build on. In support of this objective, I have
been instrumental in initiating VADEA's 2014 Regional Inspire and Indulge programs in high schools and
galleries in different locations across the state including; Inspire Western Region at Lithgow High School
and Indulge at the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre in Katoomba, Inspire Mid North Coast at Melville High
School, Kempsey and Indulge at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery in Port Macquarie. I am committed to
the future development of these exciting programs and taking them to diverse locations, working with the
executive through ongoing collaboration with regional teachers and gallery educators, connecting to
regional expertise, while fostering and expanding regional links and continuing to provide support and
advice to regional and other members.
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The Leadership and
Mentoring Officer
Karen Profilio: Karen is currently an Executive Member and was Co President Advocacy, Support and
Membership for four years prior to this position. She teaches at North Sydney Girls High School, where
she is Head Teacher Creative Arts. She has been teaching since 1977 and has had experience in a wide
variety of schools. In her role as Executive Member in 2013-14 she has been working in an advisory
capacity to the new Co-Presidents and has been involved in many aspects of the running of the
Association from managing the Facebook page, assisting with the design and delivery of the 2013 and
2014 Conferences and liaison across a number of portfolios in VADEA. In her prior role as VADEA Co
President, Karen has been responsible for the development, aesthetics and management of the online
blog, website and newsletter. She has also worked to secure relevant resources for members. She has a
particular interest in technology and has delivered conference papers both here, the USA and Italy on this
subject. She has been involved in many aspects of art teaching practice including Supervisor of Marking,
member of the HSC Exam Committee, Critical Friend at the AGNSW and continual cooperating teacher
for practicum students. She continues to advocate against ACARAs plans for The Arts.

Melinda Hodges: I am a highly experienced passionate art educator and curator. I am currently
completing my Masters of Art Curatorship at Sydney University and am interested in interdisciplinary
research in art and education. I am also working on several special projects in art education as an artist
in resident at Loreto Normanhurst and as education/curator with several regional galleries. With a
successful track record on the VADEA executive as research officer and conference organiser I have
contributed significantly to VADEA including presenting at conferences and Inspire Days, organising the
2013 On Track conference and contributing to several education kits. I have also collaborated with other
executive members to organise PD opportunities for members including Inspire and the 2012 and 2013
conference. With eight years teaching experience behind me I have mentored many pre-service teachers
and early career teachers as practicum and internship supervisor and as experienced teacher, curator
and artist. I have made many contacts with tertiary institutions and am keen to expand my networks with
these institutions as Leadership and mentoring officer.
The K-6 Officer
Ann Arora: My name is Ann Arora. I have been the Junior School Visual Arts specialist teacher at
Cranbrook for over 10 years. During that time I have taught a range of classes from K-6 so have
extensive experience in the planning and implementation of K-6 curriculum. Having also taught in high
school and being a practicing artist myself I find I am increasingly interested in the imagination and
symbology of children in this age group. Their response to art history is also fascinating.
The Research and
Publications Officer
Karen Maras: I have extensive and ongoing experience in research writing, research design and
publication of educational material in my current role as a Senior Lecturer Visual Arts Education at UNSW
and previously at ACU. As a former Co-President of VADEA, a Head of a Faculty of Education ACU and
extensive experience in working from research-informed curriculum development at state and national
levels I am conversant with the conventions of editing, designing research-focused material and
professional publications. I am also an active researcher and have presented at national and international
art education research forums. My aim would be to work with teachers to develop research reports on key
issues impacting the subject, design research-based projects focused on key areas that inform curriculum
development and develop in teachers a greater understanding of the knowledge base of the discipline
through publications initiatives.


Denise Perrin: As a current Executive member, I am interested in contemporary issues in NSW Visual
Arts Education. I would bring experience and knowledge to the VADEA executive in the planning and
developing of research papers, proposals and media releases to disseminate to VADEA NSW members.
As the current membership Officer, I have worked on the recruitment, management, development and
retention of members. I have worked with the broader VADEA Executive and Administration at the
Professional Teachers Council in coordinating membership and providing communication between the
PTC and the VADEA Executive to ensure the smooth running of events.


David Manuell: VADEA is something I would like to be involved with and this position could be a starting
point. Previously I have coordinated Regional Art Camp with the old Visual Arts Network North. This was
rewarding. I would basically like to help out in any way possible. Art theory, Lithography, Video Art,
Painting, Ceramics and Drawing are my loves.




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The Teacher
Accreditation Officer
Julie Hawkins: I am excited to nominate for The Teacher Accreditation Officer position with VADEA. I
currently hold the position of Mentor to Teachers Accreditation, at St. Josephs Catholic College, East
Gosford which requires me to assist and guide teachers undertaking accreditation at all levels. I also work
closely with the College Accreditation Co-ordinator to deliver Professional Development to the staff on the
accreditation process and best practice in the three domains of Knowledge, Practice and Engagement
across all levels of Accreditation.I am presently working towards my own Accreditation at Highly
Accomplished and have an excellent knowledge of the Standards. In the role of Teacher Accreditation
Officer with VADEA I hope to continue the great work already established by Katherine Francis and
possibly introduce a new initiative by working with other VADEA members to create a Visual Arts and
Design Teachers Accreditation at Higher Levels Guide to assist teachers in our field undertaking higher
levels of accreditation.I can offer the VADEA team a positive attitude, a professional approach and lots of
enthusiasm. I will be committed to the role of Teacher Accreditation Officer and am willing to learn the
multi-facets of this role.
Lisa Allison: I currently hold the hold the position of school appointed Teacher mentor at DHSVAD. In
this capacity I assist staff who are both maintaining and working towards their accreditation to understand
and use the National Teaching Standards to seek appropriate and meaningful professional development.
I have alos delivered training to these staff on areas of need as identified by our school. I am currently
preparing to apply for the Highly Accomplished Teacher level with NSWIT, so I also have the knowledge
and understanding of the standards and process to gain accreditation at higher levels. In 2013 I enjoyed
working with the VADEA executive to assist in the organization of and have gained insight into how
VADEA works with staff to ensure quality delivery of professional development to its members..
The Graphic Design
Officer
Lisa Allison: As a Visual Arts/Visual design/Photography and Digital Media teacher, I am experienced in
the use of Adobe CS, including Photoshop, In Design and Illustrator. I worked collaboratively with a team
of staff at DHSVAD to produce our school yearbook, which required using images, copy and school
corporate identity cohesively creatively and in consultation with key stakeholders. I have had multiple
roles both within my school (relieving executive positions) which have equipped me with excellent
communication skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to become more involved in VADEA as Graphic
Design Officer in 2014.
The Website Manager






The Public Relations
Officer
(Including Gallery &
Artist Liaison)
Melinda Hodges: I am a highly experienced passionate art educator and curator. I am currently
completing my Masters of Art Curatorship at Sydney University and am interested in interdisciplinary
research in art and education. I am also working on several special projects in art education as an artist in
resident at Loreto Normanhurst and as education/curator with several regional galleries. With a
successful track record on the VADEA executive as research officer and conference organiser I have
contributed significantly to VADEA including presenting at conferences and Inspire Days, organising the
2013 On Track conference and contributing to several education kits. I have also collaborated with other
executive members to organise PD opportunities for members including Inspire and the 2012 and 2013
conference. I played a seminal role in the planning and organisation of the 2013 conference including
contacting and negotiating with key artists and venues. As a curator and artist in resident I have made
many contacts with galleries, schools, artists and tertiary institutions and am keen to expand my networks
with the artworld as public relations officer.
Sharon Tofler: As a long standing Visual Arts educator currently working at the Art Gallery of NSW and a
secondary school, I am dedicated to quality education in the arts and the need to help support & nourish
our teachers.
As a member of the VADEA committee in the past 12 months I have assisted in:
fighting the inadequate proposed new Australian Curriculum for the Arts
liaising with artists such as Bill Henson, guest speakers, museums and art schools for our annual
conferences
supporting our Inspire programs
organising a range of Indulge events such as the Kaldor, Project #27 - 13 Rooms at Wharf Pier 2/3,
Dobell Exhibition at National Art School & talk by Wendy Sharpe and Loraine Kypiotis; Casual
Powerhouse; VADEA Educators preview for the 19th Biennale of Sydney; I am currently organising
another Indulge/Inspire event for the end of the year.
I would very much value having the opportunity to continue with this work and assist the VADEA
committee and its members in any way I can.

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Executive Member
There are 3 Executive
Member positions
available for the
2014/15 VADEA
Executive.

Kerry Thomas: As a previous Co-President I would be pleased to continue to serve VADEA as an
executive member during 2014/5. Consistent with the position description I have demonstrated an
ongoing ability to provide high-level support and advice in the planning of projects and events which
accord with VADEAs strategic goals. I have demonstrated an ability to lead projects and represent the
interests of VADEA/Visual Arts teachers in educational/community contexts. Recent examples that
demonstrate my contribution include leading the process of updating VADEAs constitution, providing
advice on the direction of the 2014 VADEA conference and presenting a short keynote at the conference.
Karen Maras: I have extensive and ongoing leadership experience in Visual Arts Education as a former
VADEA Co-President, a Head of a Faculty of Education and as a teacher educator the subject at state,
national and international levels. My experience in two universities provides me capacity to also inform
the agenda of the organisation of broader educational issues and shifts impacting Visual Arts Education. I
have also provided mentoring to other members of the association and value working with newer
members who are developing their roles and skills as future leaders in a range of Visual Arts Education
projects and initiatives.
Karen Profilio: Karen is currently an Executive Member and was Co President Advocacy, Support and
Membership for four years prior to this position. She teaches at North Sydney Girls High School, where
she is Head Teacher Creative Arts. She has been teaching since 1977 and has had experience in a wide
variety of schools. In her role as Executive Member in 2013-14 she has been working in an advisory
capacity to the new Co-Presidents and has been involved in many aspects of the running of the
Association from managing the Facebook page, assisting with the design and delivery of the 2013 and
2014 Conferences and liaison across a number of portfolios in VADEA. In her prior role as VADEA Co
President, Karen has been responsible for the development, aesthetics and management of the online
blog, website and newsletter. She has also worked to secure relevant resources for members. She has a
particular interest in technology and has delivered conference papers both here, the USA and Italy on this
subject. She has been involved in many aspects of art teaching practice including Supervisor of Marking,
member of the HSC Exam Committee, Critical Friend at the AGNSW and continual cooperating teacher
for practicum students. She continues to advocate against ACARAs plans for The Arts.
Emma Schuberg: Last year I held the Gen Y liaison role on VADEAs Executive, collaborating to
strengthen connections and networks with emerging teachers. Now as a new visual arts teacher, I am
working as a Casual teacher across greater Sydney, developing a dynamic understanding of different
school types (Independent including Steiner and government), stages of schooling (Stage 3-6) and the
daily challenges that teachers navigate including how they wrestle with curriculum in their choices and
how they assist students to develop deep understandings. I bring these growing experiences and
understandings to the role of executive member coupled with an interest of assisting the Research Officer
to build VADEAs research capacity and making it relevant to teachers practice in the classroom. I also
hope to provide support for the Executives ongoing work which contributes to the professional
opportunities available to members.
Karen King: Karen has served on the VADEA executive for the past four years and over the past year I
have led the joint VADEA and Architects Registration Board project developing resources on architecture
for Stage 5 Visual Arts. In 2013, I was awarded the COFA NSW Premiers Visual Arts Teaching Award,
which enabled me to study the work of contemporary artists and architects whose work has renewed and
regenerated communities. I hope to continue working on the development of resources from that study as
well as other related material. I have worked on syllabus development, HSC examinations and marking
and worked with local and state-wide groups on professional development and advocacy for Visual Arts.

Sharon Tofler: As a long standing Visual Arts educator currently working at the Art Gallery of NSW and a
secondary school, I am dedicated to quality education in the arts and the need to help support & nourish
our teachers.
As a member of the VADEA committee in the past 12 months I have assisted in:
fighting the inadequate proposed new Australian Curriculum for the Arts
liaising with artists such as Bill Henson, guest speakers, museums and art schools for our annual
conferences
supporting our Inspire programs
organising a range of Indulge events such as the Kaldor, Project #27 - 13 Rooms at Wharf Pier 2/3,
Dobell Exhibition at National Art School & talk by Wendy Sharpe and Loraine Kypiotis; Casual
Powerhouse; VADEA Educators preview for the 19th Biennale of Sydney; I am currently organising
another Indulge/Inspire event for the end of the year.
I would very much value having the opportunity to continue with this work and assist the VADEA
committee and its members in any way I can.