Debra contributes to upholding the integrity and quality of educational programmes across Whitecliffe.
Raised in a family of tailors and dressmakers, Debra’s early exposure to fashion ignited a lifelong passion. After working in various fashion companies across New Zealand and Australia, she took a break to start a family, balancing motherhood with running her own business and working as a freelance contractor. This diverse experience laid the foundation for her future in education.
With over 27 years of experience in tertiary education, her journey from industry professional to educator and now to a role overseeing quality across multiple disciplines reflects her adaptability and commitment to excellence in education. As part of a dedicated team, Debra remains passionate about maintaining high standards and fostering innovation across all areas of Whitecliffe’s diverse educational offerings.
Debra contributes to upholding the integrity and quality of educational programmes across Whitecliffe.
Raised in a family of tailors and dressmakers, Debra’s early exposure to fashion ignited a lifelong passion. After working in various fashion companies across New Zealand and Australia, she took a break to start a family, balancing motherhood with running her own business and working as a freelance contractor. This diverse experience laid the foundation for her future in education.
With over 27 years of experience in tertiary education, her journey from industry professional to educator and now to a role overseeing quality across multiple disciplines reflects her adaptability and commitment to excellence in education. As part of a dedicated team, Debra remains passionate about maintaining high standards and fostering innovation across all areas of Whitecliffe’s diverse educational offerings.
Debra is a fashion graduate of the Auckland University of Technology and holds a Tertiary Teaching Diploma from Manukau Institute of Technology. In 1997, she joined NZ Fashion Tech as a Lecturer, shortly after the institution’s inception. Her talent and dedication led to her promotion to Academic Leader, where she was instrumental in shaping the development, approval, and implementation of the Fashion Tech programmes.
Her leadership in curriculum design ensured students received cutting-edge, practical education aligned with industry standards. Debra also spearheaded collaborative student projects with brands like Kleenex Cottonelle and Resene, providing invaluable industry experience to aspiring fashion professionals.
During the successful 2018 amalgamation of NZ Fashion Tech into Whitecliffe, Debra served as Programme Leader, ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining high academic standards. In 2022, she transitioned to her current role as Quality Assurance Manager within the Whitecliffe QA team.