Welcoming Our New Executive Team and Honouring Our Outgoing Leaders
22 Nov 2024
The recent Annual General Meeting on Friday 22 November at the 2024 Regional Day Out hosted by our South Australian Chapter. The AGM marked a transformative moment for Learning Environments Australasia (LEA) as we welcomed our new Executive team. We are thrilled to introduce and welcome Ros Marsland as Regional Chair, Derek Bartels as Regional Chair-Elect (2026), and Felicity Lewis as Regional Treasurer. Our 2024 Executive Team:
- Ros Marsland, Chair
- Derek Bartels, Chair-Elect
- Deb O'Riley, International Director
- Dani Martin, Secretary
- Felicity Lewis, Treasurer
- Daniel Smith, Past-Chair
Ros Marsland – Regional Chair
We are excited to have Ros Marsland step into the role of Regional Chair. With over 18 years of dedicated service to LEA, Ros has held various leadership roles, including Chair of the WA Chapter from 2012 to 2016 and a member of the Regional Council. Currently the Manager of Strategic Projects at the Department of Education in Western Australia, Ros has been pivotal in advancing school design through her work in education redevelopment projects, including a prominent high school project in Perth. Her passion for creating optimal learning spaces and her unwavering commitment to LEA will guide the organisation forward as she leads our team.
Derek Bartels - Regional Chair-Elect (2026)
Derek Bartels, our new Regional Chair-Elect (2026), is renowned for is innovative approach to contemporary learning and innovative environments across several Australian states. With leadership experience across states and nationally, Derek has drawn from cutting-edge research to share learning practices within Lutheran schools and beyond. His leadership extends globally, inspiring educational communities to adopt contemporary pedagogical practices, innovative learning environments and whole school transformation. Derek's passion for future-focused learning environments positions him as a visionary for LEA's continued evolution and collaboration. He will assume the role of Regional Chair in November 2026, providing us with a guiding light for innovation and progress.
Felicity Lewis – Regional Treasurer
Felicity Lewis, newly elected as Regional Treasurer, brings a wealth of experience in architecture and urban design. Her role as Director of Architecture at Studio GL has allowed her to focus on community-centered spaces, combining functionality and aesthetics in projects across educational and urban landscapes. Felicity’s previous work within Catholic schools and her experience as Chair of the NSW Chapter from 2020-2021 reflect her commitment to LEA’s mission. After a year as Assistant Treasurer, Felicity is poised to strengthen LEA’s financial framework, ensuring a stable foundation for growth.
Honouring Marino Rossi, Laurence Robinson, and Daniel Smith
As we look forward, we also take a moment to reflect on the exceptional contributions of Marino Rossi, Laurence Robinson, and Daniel Smith, whose dedication and service have propelled LEA forward.
Marino Rossi – A Steadfast Leader During Challenging Times
Marino Rossi’s tenure as Regional Chair from 2020-2022 coincided with one of the most challenging periods in recent history: the COVID-19 pandemic. Marino demonstrated calm and decisive leadership, navigating constant changes with adaptability and resilience. Under his guidance, LEA managed to uphold its commitment to members by pivoting to virtual and hybrid events, ensuring that our network remained strong despite unprecedented disruptions.
In addition to his leadership during the pandemic, Marino spearheaded the upgrade of LEA’s website, a significant project that culminated in a streamlined, user-friendly platform launched in April 2023. This upgrade provided members with easier access to resources, event information, and networking opportunities, enhancing the overall LEA experience. Marino’s vision extended beyond his role as Chair, as he will continue remain an active member of the South Australian Chapter Committee.
Laurence Robinson – A Pillar of Financial Stewardship
Laurence Robinson has served as Regional Treasurer since 2013, overseeing LEA’s finances with diligence and foresight. His meticulous attention to detail and strategic planning have been essential in maintaining the financial health of LEA, allowing the organisation to operate effectively within budget constraints and invest in new initiatives. Laurence’s contributions extend beyond his financial expertise; he has been a key member of every Regional Event Committee, dedicating countless hours to ensure the success of our annual gatherings, conferences and workshops.
An active member of the Victoria Chapter since 2007, Laurence has been a constant presence within LEA, lending his expertise and insights to support LEA’s growth. His commitment to prudent financial management has positioned LEA to not only withstand financial challenges but to flourish, expanding offerings and resources for members. Laurence’s legacy is one of dedication, careful stewardship, and unwavering commitment to our shared goals.
Daniel Smith – Architect of Foundational Change
Daniel Smith’s tenure as Regional Chair from 2022-2024 was marked by significant achievements that have laid a strong foundation for LEA’s future. Among his most impactful contributions was the establishment of our Sub-Committees dedicated to addressing key areas within LEA, including Awards, Membership, Partnerships & Advocacy, Sponsorship, and Research. These Sub-Committees have enabled LEA to tackle high-priority initiatives more effectively, ensuring that every aspect of our organisation receives focused attention and expertise.
Daniel also oversaw the development of a new member portal, an ambitious project designed to streamline the user experience for LEA members. Rollout commenced in June this year, the portal addresses long-standing member requests for a more integrated platform, simplifying access to event management, award entries, professional development resources, and more. Daniel’s leadership in advancing these projects has positioned LEA to better serve its members, facilitating growth and engagement across the network.
Although Daniel has completed his term as Chair, he will continue to support LEA as a member of the Executive Team for the next two years and remain an active member of the New South Wales Chapter committee.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we welcome Ros, Derek, and Felicity to the Executive team, we are filled with optimism for the future of LEA. At the same time, we extend our profound gratitude to Marino, Laurence, and Daniel. Their contributions, time, and dedication have been invaluable to LEA’s mission and success. These roles are entirely voluntary, a testament to the commitment each of them has shown toward advancing our vision and goals.
The legacy left by out outgoing leaders and the fresh perspectives of our incoming team offer a promising path forward. We thank Marino, Laurence, and Daniel for their exceptional service and dedication, and we look forward to the continued growth, innovation, and success that our new Executive team will bring.
📷 Janusz Molinski Photography | 2024 AMPLIFY Regional Conference, featuring Daniel Smith & Ros Masland
