CASE STUDY 4
Devising and delivering a two-hour workshop of key clinic partners to develop a clear vision for a world-class neurorehabilitation clinic.
Background: In 2021, Griffith University identified an opportunity to develop a world-class rehabilitation clinic for spinal cord injuries. This clinic will be part of the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, a dynamic business and research hub in which Griffith is a partner organisation. The university invited Dr Tiernan to assist in designing a workshop of key clinic partners and to deliver the two-hour workshop session. Dr Tiernan’s multifaceted role in this project speaks to her deep knowledge of the different sectors involved and her wide-ranging skill as an effective and empathetic communicator and facilitator.
What we did: Dr Tiernan contributed to workshop design by offering advice about the university’s agenda and approach and by conducting pre-workshop interviews with key respondents to identify points of common interest. The workshop participants represented organisations that provide high-level research, clinical care and support for those with spinal cord injury and their families.
Under Dr Tiernan’s guidance, they achieved clear consensus on the principles underpinning the centre’s design and approach. They developed a clear vision for the centre and a series of steps to realise that vision. Following the workshop, Dr Tiernan prepared a summary document of workshop outcomes, including a roadmap to progress the agreed priorities and next steps and to inform the development of a strong business case.
Key outcomes: Dr Tiernan’s work will inform the next steps of the project, building on the collaboration and consensus achieved in the workshop to implement a networked model for the centre and to secure a sustainable funding base.
Centre of Excellence in Neurorehabilitation (2021)
“Professor Tiernan has a unique understanding of a range of sectors and how they intersect or might intersect … [she] challenged us to expand our thinking beyond the here and now and to think about the future and the possibilities that might exist. She was inclusive and respectful of the full range of views and perspectives and made everyone feel heard.
Whilst a number of people could have been engaged to facilitate the workshop and produce a report, Anne’s understanding of government (and the departments), the health and NGO sectors along with recent experience of universities meant she was able to think about the power of bringing all the stakeholders together and to capture their unique individual and collective contributions.
Anne is a creative, future-focused individual. She brings immense knowledge and different perspectives … and as an added bonus is also fun to work with.”
Professor Sheena Reilly, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research), Griffith University