CDU Staff wins highly competitive grant to attend a conference in Orlando

Cheryl Brennan has been awarded a highly competitive grant to represent Charles Darwin University (CDU) on the global stage at the NAFSA: Association of International Educators annual conference in Orlando.  

The Australian Universities International Directors grant attracts applications from university staff across the nation.  

Ms Brennan, CDU Global’s regional marketing manager, will join conference attendees from universities, government bodies, and sector leaders participate in collaborative discussions on emerging trends, policy developments, and best practices in international engagement. 

“I’m honoured to have been awarded the grant to attend,” Ms Brennan said. 

“This is a highly competitive grant, with only one recipient selected nationally each year, which makes it particularly meaningful.,” 

This year’s theme ‘Global by Design’ addresses the demand for forward-thinking strategies, innovative approaches and creative partnerships that create meaningful global experiences. 

“The conference theme strongly aligns with CDU’s international strategy. It provides an opportunity to engage with global leaders in international education,” Ms Brennan said. 

 “We will explore emerging trends in student mobility, and better understand how institutions are adapting to a rapidly evolving environment.,” 

Ms Brennan hoped to strengthen CDU’s global network. She said she planned to connect with current partners, identify new partnership opportunities, and gain insights into innovative recruitment and engagement strategies.  

“This will support efforts to diversify markets and refine approaches to international student growth,” she said, 

“I’m really looking forward to representing CDU on this global stage and bringing back ideas that will support our continued growth and success.”  

The grant covers the airfare, accommodation and registration for an individual in an Australian University working in student mobility to attend one of three international education conferences.  

The last winner of the grant from CDU was Brett Smith who attended the European Association for International Education’s annual conference in 2017.