Rate My Professor Sally-Ann Howard

Sally-Ann Howard holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) and a Bachelor of Science (BSc), both from the University of Otago. She joined the University of Otago in 1993 as an Administrative Assistant in the Department of Anatomy, with her title later changing to Departmental Administrator. She was the first person officially designated as an administrator in the department, having previously been secretaries in that role. Over her 25 years of service in the Department of Anatomy, she worked under seven Heads of Department, including Professor Gareth Jones who appointed her. During this period, the department underwent significant transformation, growing from a largely teaching-based, medically-oriented entity to a broad multidisciplinary organization with extensive research strengths and a large postgraduate student cohort. Howard managed human resources, assisted the Head of Department with administrative tasks, and supported her team in providing administrative backing for teaching and research activities. Her role evolved considerably due to the department's expansion, increased activity levels, and changes in University procedures such as eVision. She adapted efficiently, handling HR issues, addressing personnel concerns for staff and students, and serving as a primary advisor on University and Health Sciences practices. Her proficiency, expanding skill set, patience, and good humour ensured smooth departmental operations under diverse leadership styles, boosting morale and providing wise counsel to Heads, staff, postdocs, and external groups.