I am delighted to announce that Dr Areti Metuamate has been appointed to the position of Dean of St Mark’s College to commence duties officially in January 2019. Areti graduated with first class honours in political science and media studies from Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand (2006) before completing a Master’s degree (2011) and PhD (2018) at the ANU.
With ten years’ experience working within a college setting, Areti has a strong understanding of the needs of students, is highly engaged and supportive, leads by example and seeks to bring out the best in others.
Prior to working in the university residential college sector, Areti worked as a Parliamentary Assistant in the New Zealand Parliament and was a Strategic Policy Advisor in the Ministry of Justice in Wellington prior to moving to Canberra to take on the role of Deputy Head of Residence at Toad Hall ANU under the headship of Dr Ian Walker.
A skilled communicator, Areti speaks his Indigenous Māori language fluently and has studied both Tongan and Japanese. His own diverse experiences, together with working in a number of colleges, ensures that he is able to relate well to people from all walks of life. Areti says, “I strongly believe in the importance of inclusion and respecting diversity, which I have demonstrated through my appointment of diverse student leadership teams and developing support programs for LGBTIQ+ and Indigenous students”.
Areti is a caring and compassionate person who places importance on being connected and engaged with students to better understand their support needs and ensure they receive the best possible advice and guidance. He is committed to academic excellence and collegiate life in particular ensuring that the students with whom he works enjoy their time at college and reach their full potential.
“College is an ideal place for young adults to grow and thrive socially, spiritually, and intellectually. It requires innovative and bold thinking, as well as courage to stand by what you believe will make a positive difference, even if others have a different view or approach.”
Areti is married to Wiradjuri woman Dr Jessa Rogers, a Fulbright Scholar, artist, and expert in Indigenous education. The St Mark’s College community is thrilled that someone with Areti’s experience, energy and commitment is joining our team and look forward to welcoming he and his wife Jessa to St Mark’s in the New Year.
Rose Alwyn
Master
