"We’ve all benefited from our time at Charles Sturt University - and I want to pass that on to the next generation.”

After 13 years at Charles Sturt, Kirstie Grady is one of the steady hands in the Advancement team, overseeing some of the most vital aspects of philanthropic operations - from scholarship management and fundraising to bequests and donor engagement.

What first inspired her to work in philanthropy? Quite simply, the knowledge that her role could make a meaningful difference to the future of the university and its students.

For Kirstie, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing how the contributions of generous donors transform a student’s journey - and often, their life.

One moment she’ll never forget? Calling a single mother, a survivor of domestic violence, to let her know she had received a $20,000 scholarship.
“She broke down in tears,” Kirstie recalls. “She told me how this would change everything for her and her daughter. That was a life-changing moment - for both of us.”

Kirstie doesn’t just work in philanthropy - she’s a part of it. She’s already arranged a bequest to Charles Sturt University to establish a scholarship supporting students at the Bathurst campus.

It’s a place close to her heart: her husband and sons all studied there, and Kirstie herself has built her career there.
“We’ve all benefited from our time at Charles Sturt,” she says. “And I want to make sure other families get that same chance.”

Kirstie starts her day with a skinny dirty chai, and while she’s not dreaming of spreadsheets, she’s dreaming of retirement on the beaches of Santorini. Until then, you’ll find her embracing regional life, loving the lifestyle, and enjoying a meal at the Kings Hotel.

For a burst of nostalgia, she turns up “Long Hot Summer” by The Style Council - a tune that whisks her back to sun-soaked teenage days, laying on a towel with her best friend, listening to the radio.

And if you’re ever in need of a jam session, don’t forget: Kirstie once played both the flute and the clarinet - and she’s still got the stories to prove it.

Quick-Fire Round!

• Best way to start the day? Coffee
• Dream travel destination? Santorini
• Favourite local eatery? Kings Hotel
• One word to describe Advancement? Mateship
• What motivates you? Payday