Chris Higgins | National Programs Director, Development and Innovation
The MacKillop Institute

As the National Programs Director, Development and Innovation at The MacKillop Institute, Chris assists to lead the knowledge sharing hub of MacKillop Family Services, a national organisation that works with some of the most vulnerable people, children, families, and communities in Australia. Chris collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to design and deliver programs for schools, leadership, teachers and young people that are evidence-based, practical, and impactful, drawing on over a century of collective organisational wisdom and frontline expertise. Chris is also a PhD candidate in Education at CQUniversity, where he researchs the role of digital technologies and global competencies in fostering social inclusion and cohesion in Australian schools. He has a strong background and passion for promoting equity, inclusion and engagement among Australian educators and young people, as evidenced by my previous roles as the Director of Education at Asia Education Foundation, University of Melbourne, Global Head of Humanities at Australia's largest K-12 edtech company, Education Perfect and as a leader of learning in schools. Chris has received multiple awards and recognitions for his work in curriculum innovation and leadership, such as Most Influential Educator, Australian Education Awards Curriculum Innovation Award Finalist and the University of Melbourne Asialink Fellowship. He is a registered teacher, member of the Institute of Community Directors and the HundredEd Academy. He believes education is a powerful tool for empowering and transforming individuals and societies, and I strive to create learning opportunities that reflect the diversity, complexity, and dynamism of our connected world.