The Hunter TAFE Foundation has welcomed two new appointments to its board, with Melissa Rowe and Sam Gannon bringing extensive expertise in business strategy, leadership, and community engagement.
Melissa Rowe, Chief Operating Officer at Prosperity Advisers, brings with her a strong background in senior leadership, strategic innovation, compliance, and risk management. She replaces outgoing board member Cameron Denny, who has stepped down to pursue further professional opportunities with SafeWork NSW.
Sam Gannon, Director and Founder of Newcastle-based marketing consultancy Solvd Agency, joins the board with a track record in helping businesses define growth strategies and sharpen their messaging. He replaces Paul “Lobby” Lobb, who is focusing on his celebrant business, “Married By Lobby.”
“Joining the board of the Hunter TAFE Foundation allows me to leverage my experience to support and enhance educational opportunities, with a strong focus on making a positive impact in our community,” Sam Gannon said.
“Being on the board of the Hunter TAFE Foundation is a meaningful way for me to give back to the educational community and to support TAFE NSW students in achieving their full potential,” Melissa Rowe added.
Melissa and Sam join a passionate board committed to supporting students across the Hunter and Central Coast, working alongside directors Karen Howard, Jason Darney (TAFE NSW), Colin Law, Mark Breasley, Christian Southward, and Kiraley Martin.
Foundation President Karen Howard welcomed the appointments and reaffirmed the Foundation’s purpose.
“Many students face significant sacrifices when choosing to study, including reduced work hours, childcare responsibilities, travel expenses, and other study-related costs. Now more than ever, the Foundation’s support is profoundly impacting students’ lives and career paths,” Karen said.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Melissa and Sam to the Hunter TAFE Foundation board. I know that they will both make a strong contribution to our board and the overall work of the Foundation in supporting TAFE NSW students across the Hunter and Central Coast to achieve their learning goals.”
In the 2023/24 financial year, the Foundation awarded more than $105,000 in scholarships and awards to 82 recipients. With new expertise now on board, the Foundation is looking to further expand its impact and support for vocational education.
IMAGE | Newly appointed TAFE Foundation Board member, Sam Gannon
