Rate My Professor Sonya Stewart

Sonya Stewart serves as the Divisional Senior Manager for the Health Sciences Division at the University of Otago, providing senior administrative leadership within the Pro-Vice-Chancellor's Office. She supports operations across the division, which includes faculties of dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, and health sciences programmes in Dunedin, Christchurch, and Wellington. Her direct contact includes DDI +64 3 556 5680, mobile +64 21 279 5135 or +64 21 279 1473, and email sonya.stewart@otago.ac.nz. Previously, as Group Leader – Student Administration, Stewart managed key services including examinations and graduation ceremonies. In March 2021, she oversaw an Acknowledgement Graduation Ceremony for 2020 graduates impacted by COVID-19, stating, “It was wonderful to see our graduates finally have the opportunity to celebrate and mark the occasion of their graduation with their family, friends and whanau. It was a very special day indeed.” She emphasized resilience amid challenges: “Although we are slowly moving our way through the challenges of COVID-19, there will always be new challenges ahead. And when they come, remember, you are braver and stronger than you ever imagined.”

Stewart's extensive experience in examinations administration highlights her ability to handle complex, time-sensitive scenarios. Drawing from her time as an exams officer, she has underscored the need for “fast, and sound, time-critical decisions that don’t impact on other students,” especially for unpredictable incidents. A notable case involved coordinating an exam for a postgraduate medical student aboard a cruise ship, securing supervision and courier services across ports within 24 hours. Under her oversight, alternative exam arrangements coordinated with the Disability Information and Support team increased from approximately 1,000 in semester two 2015 to 2,900 in a subsequent semester. In recognition of her exceptional support and guidance to staff and students, she received an Appreciation Award noted in the 2018 Disability Information & Support Newsletter. Professionally, Stewart has shared expertise at the Examinations Network Conference 2019 alongside colleagues on a computer-based exams pilot and is scheduled to present at the ATEM 2024 conference on building a purpose-driven culture. Her contributions have enhanced student support, exam integrity, and administrative efficiency in the Health Sciences Division.