Students and emerging leaders from Avondale College of Higher Education received social media and leadership training at South Pacific Division (SPD) headquarters in Wahroonga (NSW) on August 14.
Adrienne Bateup-Carlson, from public relations consulting firm Australian Public Affairs, provided social media training for the group.
Various Avondale student groups were represented, including Avondale Student Life Association and the institution’s Friday night “Salt” initiative. Students were briefed on how to effectively communicate with audiences and stakeholders.
“[There’s a] need to be quite vigilant about the darker side of social media,” said Mrs Bateup-Carlson. “It’s extraordinary and disheartening to see how many people can be distracted by so much negativity in the world. It’s about being able to set an example.”
Students also interacted with SPD leaders, including president Pastor Glenn Townend, Programs and Strategic Projects director Kalvin Dever and Communications director Tracey Bridcutt. The trio addressed students’ questions around a variety of issues, including effective leadership qualities and gender diversity in leadership.
SPD Leadership and Professional Development manager Dean Banks, who helped organise the event, said the meeting fit into the Church’s wider vision.
“We as the SPD are very focused on identifying and developing potential future Adventist church leaders to ensure strong foundations to fulfill our mission,” said Mr Banks.
Pastor Townend offered a special prayer for Pastor Brock Goodall (pictured above) following his recent appointment as Avondale College chaplain.
