On December 12, 2023, Mr. Phon Sophal, the Director of St. Paul Institute (SPI), undertook an official visit to the Notre Dame University of Australia (NDUA) at its Sydney Campus. The primary purpose of this visit was to express gratitude to NDUA for their consistent commitment to student exchange programs with SPI, a tradition that has been upheld annually since 2016. Additionally, Mr.Phon Sophal aimed to engage in discussions about potential future collaborations between the two institutions, focusing particularly on staff exchange initiatives and student credit transfer opportunities in the years 2023 and 2025.
During his visit, he held important meetings with several distinguished academic figures at NDUA, reinforcing the spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding. The key personalities he interacted with include Professor Martin Drum, who holds the position of Executive Dean within the Faculty of Arts, Sciences, Law, and Business and is a Professor of Politics and International Relations. Professor Kirsty Beilharz, the National Head of School for Arts and Sciences, and Professor Michael Quinlan, the National Head of School for Law and Business, were also among those engaged in discussions. Further collaboration talks involved Dr. Sylvie Magerstaedt, the Deputy Head of School for Arts and Sciences; Professor Elizabeth Labone, serving as the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Learning and Teaching; and Professor Michelle Campbell, holding the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor for International and Partnerships. The meetings extended to Professor David de Carvalho, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Education, Philosophy, and Theology, and Dr. David Geelan, who serves as the National Head of School for Education.
The discussions during this visit were undoubtedly rich in content, encompassing not only expressions of gratitude for past collaborations but also exploring potential avenues for future joint initiatives. The emphasis on staff exchange and student credit transfer opportunities highlighted the commitment of both institutions to fostering academic growth and providing diverse learning experiences for their students.
On behalf of His Excellency Bishop Olivier, the founder and chancellor of St. Paul Institute (SPI), Mr. Phon Sophal extended heartfelt appreciation during his official visit to the Notre Dame University of Australia (NDUA) on December 12, 2023. In particular, he expressed special thanks to Professor Dr. Martin Drum, acknowledging his unwavering support and instrumental assistance in facilitating the successful exchange program between SPI and NDUA.
