Building AUSA: Lessons from a Major Merger (SEN Insights, Ep 16)

What happens when two universities merge, and two distinct student associations have to become one? In this episode of SEN Insights, Paul is joined by Heidi Mander, inaugural CEO of the Adelaide University Student Association (AUSA), to unpack the realities of navigating one of Australia’s biggest higher education mergers. Heidi shares candid insights into bringing together two different organisational cultures, establishing strong student representation, managing staff uncertainty and burnout, navigating governance and operational challenges, and delivering student services while building an entirely new organisation. From O-Week and clubs and societies to strategic planning and maintaining student voice, Heidi reflects on what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons she would take into any future merger.