A Candid Chat with Cheryl-Ann Cruickshank, CEO – DUSA

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Cheryl-Ann Cruickshank, CEO of DUSA, and the conversation was both warm and delightful.

We delved into various aspects of the organisation and its future plans. Here’s a glimpse of the insightful exchange we had.

I was curious about the CEO’s reflections on the past couple of months. It has been a period of change and adaptation for DUSA. I asked for her thoughts on how things have unfolded during this time.

“The past 6 months have been a whirlwind of challenges and triumphs. We faced unprecedented situations that demanded quick thinking and flexibility. One of the most significant reflections is the incredible resilience and dedication shown by our staff members in these tough times. Their commitment to our students and our mission has been the driving force behind our success. Despite the uncertainties, our team rose to the occasion and ensured that students’ needs were met, be it academically or personally. I couldn’t be prouder of their efforts.”, said Cheryl-Ann.

It’s truly inspiring to see such dedication within the organisation. With all the infrastructure and organisational changes that have taken place over the past few months, is there anything you would like to convey to the staff members?

“I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every staff member at DUSA. Change is not always easy, and the willingness of our team to embrace these changes has been remarkable. Their adaptability and commitment to ensuring a seamless transition have been critical in keeping the organisation running smoothly. I understand that change can be unsettling, but it is through these changes that we can grow and improve. So, to the staff members, thank you for your hard work, dedication, and unwavering support. Your adaptability and flexibility during the changes have been invaluable. Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of our students and I am proud to lead such a dedicated team.”

It’s wonderful to hear that appreciation and recognition for the team. Looking ahead, what is your vision for the next 6 months, especially with the new September intake of students on the horizon?

The next 6 months are incredibly crucial for us. As we welcome new students in the September intake, our vision is focused on providing an exceptional student experience right from the start. We want to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. The integration of the new intake into the DUSA community is a top priority.

Additionally, we are dedicated to further enhancing our support services for students. The challenges of the past months have highlighted the importance of mental health and well-being. We aim to expand our support programs, ensuring that students have the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally.

Moreover, we are actively working on strengthening our ties with the university and local businesses to offer more opportunities for career development. In essence, our vision for the next 6 months revolves around fostering a nurturing and empowering environment for our students, ensuring they have all the tools they need to make the most of their time at DUSA and beyond.”

To the DUSA community, I want to say that we are here for you. Our commitment to your well-being, personal growth, and success is unwavering. If you ever have any ideas, suggestions, or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your feedback is vital in shaping the future of DUSA. Together, we can create a dynamic and supportive environment where every student thrives. Let’s make this year even more remarkable than the last! It’s been a pleasure to discuss our journey and plans with you. Let’s continue to work together to make DUSA the best it can be for our students.

As the CEO of DUSA conveyed her reflections, gratitude, and aspirations, it is evident that our organisation is committed towards holistic development with a strong team and a clear vision.