Science equity committee
Meet our Faculty of Science Equity Committee (FoSEC) members.
The Faculty of Science Equity Committee (FoSEC) meet every two months and support and advocate for an inclusive and diverse faculty.
To learn more about equity initiatives, working groups, getting involved, reporting equity issues, and discussing ideas, get in touch with Sonia Fonua (Associate Dean Equity and Diversity, Chair of the Equity Committee) via science-equity@auckland.ac.nz. This is a confidential inbox. All items will be handled confidentially and will only be escalated with full consent. All ideas are welcome.
This is a safe space, and you are welcome to reach out and connect with any of the committee members.
Rebecca Deed
Lecturer
"I'm the representative for the School of Chemical Sciences. I'm a member of the Rainbow Science Network and an advocate for Women in Science."
Profile: Rebecca Deed
Phone: +64 9 373 7599
Email: rebecca.deed@auckland.ac.nz
Sonia Fonua
Professional Teaching Fellow
"I am the Associate Dean Equity and Diversity for Science and I chair the committee, and a PTF in the School of Environment. I am passionate about equity in higher education and transitioning pathways into first year university-level study. I am also very interested in valuing and embedding Indigenous (science) knowledges, art and creative practice in science education, and relational teaching practices."
Profile: Sonia Fonua
Phone: +64 9 923 9710
Email: s.fonua@auckland.ac.nz
Anne Gaskett
Associate Professor School of Biological Sciences
"I study, teach and make discoveries about how animals behave in nature. I’m an expert in orchids and their pollinators, a surprisingly complex and fascinating topic! I'm a lecturer, so I teach classes, do research, and supervise masters and PhD students as they start their careers in Science. I’m also a mum with two little kids and married to another biologist. My job is diverse, just like nature. I really love that."
Profile: Anne Gaskett
Email: a.gaskett@auckland.ac.nz
Polly George
Student Support Adviser
“I am one of the Student Support Advisers within the Student Support and Engagement team, dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where rainbow students can access the support they need. I am also a member of the rainbow working group, committed to upholding a safe and affirming atmosphere for LGBTQIA+, Takatāpui, and MVPFAFF+ students & staff in the Faculty of Science.”
Email: polly.george@auckland.ac.nz
Asma Shakil
Professional Teaching Fellow
“I’m the representative for the School of Computer Science. I’m an advocate for increasing diversity in Computer Science.”
Profile: Asma Shakil
Phone: +64 9 373 7599
Email: asma.shakil@auckland.ac.nz
Jonny Stephenson
Professional Teaching Fellow
“I represent the Department of Mathematics.”
Profile: Jonny Stephenson
Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 84557
Email: jonny.stephenson@auckland.ac.nz
Nuzhat Sultana
Lecturer
“I’m the representative for the School of Psychology (Speech Science). As Co-Chair of the Students and Staff of Refugee Background (SRB), I am an advocate for an inclusive, supportive environment where all students and staff from refugee backgrounds can thrive academically and personally.”
Profile: Nuzhat Sultana
Phone: +64 9 923 2073 ext 84459
Abi van Dyke
Student Support Adviser
“I am a Student Support Adviser within the Student Support and Engagement team and the Faculty Disability Liaison. I provide care and support for students with disabilities throughout their university journey. I am a member of the EDDEI working group, where we are focused on fostering an equitable and inclusive space for the faculty. I am available to discuss support needs, resources, information, and connect you to different services within the university.”