Rate My Professor Alison Stewart

Dr Alison Stewart is the Head of the Academic Leadership Development Programme (ALDP) at the University of Otago, part of the Organisational Development team in the Human Resources Division. She oversees a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing leadership capabilities among academic staff, with particular emphasis on supporting individuals in roles such as Academic Head, Course Convenor, Chair of Committee, and Principal Investigator. The ALDP emphasises reflective leadership practice, peer learning, and applied just-in-time learning. Key programmes include the New Academic Heads' Leadership Development, a five-day programme delivered over 12 months for new Heads of Department/Programme, School, and Directors of Centre/Programme, helping participants navigate their roles effectively. Other offerings encompass Developing Academic Leadership workshops and courses open to academic heads, directors, and other nominated staff, as well as one- to two-hour Policy and Practice sessions on University policies for both academic and professional staff. Centrally funded by the university, these programmes are provided free of charge to departments and participants, promoting widespread accessibility and participation across the institution.

In 2024, Dr Alison Stewart was awarded the Exceptional Performance by Professional Staff Award at the University of Otago Staff Awards, one of four recipients alongside Michelle Taiaroa, Jacqui Bradshaw, and Thelma Fisher. Nominators commended her embodiment of true leadership, with a holistic focus on people, offering thoughtful guidance, exceptional listening skills, and creating collegial, collaborative, and kind atmospheres. She fosters environments that encourage creativity, playfulness, safe spaces for learning and development, and strong peer support networks. Her contributions have significantly strengthened academic leadership development at the University of Otago, aligning closely with the University's Academic Leadership Framework. Dr Stewart has led the ALDP for several years, with records indicating her involvement since at least 2016 through university newsletters, annual reports, and programme documentation, underscoring her sustained impact on organisational excellence.