Winners at the Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) Awards.
In an impressive recognition of her dedication to educational leadership, Edith Cowan University's (ECU) Executive Dean of the School of Education, Professor Caroline Mansfield, has been awarded the prestigious ACEL WA Pre-eminent Educational Leader Award.
Presented by the Hon. Dr. Tony Buti, WA's Minister for Education, the accolade acknowledges Professor Mansfield's substantial contributions to the field of education in Western Australia.
The annual Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) Awards are a highlight of Western Australia’s education calendar, celebrating those who have made outstanding contributions to educational leadership.
The ACEL WA Pre-eminent Educational Leader Award is the highest honour bestowed by ACEL WA, awarded to a Western Australian educator whose leadership and research are deemed exceptional. The Award recognises individuals who significantly shape educational practices and contribute to the overall improvement of educational outcomes across the state and beyond.
Professor Mansfield presented with top honours by Minister Buti.
Professor Mansfield's recognition comes at a crucial time, as education continues to face complex challenges, including rapid technological changes, curriculum development needs and a growing emphasis on inclusivity and diversity in the classroom. Her leadership has been pivotal in addressing these challenges at ECU, where she champions research and practices that promote positive change in education. She has played a key role in guiding ECU's School of Education in delivering programs that prepare future educators to excel in an evolving field.
Professor Mansfield expressed her gratitude in her acceptance speech, saying, "I am deeply humbled to receive this award and proud that this is the first time it has been awarded to a Dean of Education."
"It is an honour to represent ECU and our outstanding School of Education, where we are committed to advancing educational practices that benefit students and communities across Western Australia."
Professor Mansfield's award is a personal achievement and a testament to ECU's influence in the education sector.
The evening's ceremony saw many distinguished guests, including Minister Buti and leaders from across the educational sector, who gathered to celebrate excellence and innovation in education. Minister Buti, in presenting the Award, highlighted Professor Mansfield's career accomplishments, noting her dedication to educational leadership and her commitment to fostering future generations of educators.
He also praised ECU's contributions to initiatives such as the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HAT) program, which exemplifies the University's forward-thinking approach to teacher education and professional development.
Professor Mansfield's career is distinguished by her focus on resilience, well-being and professional learning for educators. Her work emphasises the importance of supporting teachers at all levels, from the classroom to administration, with a comprehensive understanding of leadership. This approach has garnered attention not only within ECU but across the broader educational landscape, positioning ECU as a leader in teacher education and professional learning programs.
Under Professor Mansfield's leadership, ECU's School of Education has made substantial strides in programs that equip teachers with the tools they need to thrive. The School strongly advocates for embedding evidence-based practices in teacher training, ensuring graduates enter the profession with a deep commitment to student-centred learning and inclusive practices.
The Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) is a respected not-for-profit organisation that champions educational leadership development across Australia. With a network of over 7,000 members and access to 45,000 educators nationwide, ACEL provides resources, programs and opportunities designed to foster growth and innovation within the education sector. Its annual awards, including the Pre-eminent Educational Leader Award, are highly regarded and celebrate the contributions of leaders who shape the future of education.
Professor Mansfield's achievement highlights her exceptional contributions and highlights ECU's role in fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in education. The University community proudly congratulates her on this well-deserved accolade and looks forward to seeing her continued impact on education in Western Australia and beyond.
The ACEL WA Pre-eminent Educational Leader Award is a fitting recognition of Professor Mansfield's vision, leadership and dedication to education. Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration to her peers, her students and aspiring educators, underscoring the profound influence that committed educational leaders can have on shaping the future.
