Student Excellence Awards - Southern Cross University

The inspiring efforts of Southern Cross University students in driving positive impact were recognised at the Student Excellence Awards on November 21.

From community volunteering to mental health advocacy and student-led initiatives, outstanding students were commended for their achievements in leadership, community and university engagement and sporting spirit.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Tyrone Carlin, congratulated the students on their achievements.

“It is inspiring to see these outstanding students create impact and change within and beyond our university. These students embody a culture at Southern Cross University that we are very proud of; one where we strive for excellence, care for our communities and build trust through action,” Professor Carlin said.

“I congratulate our award winners on their success and wish them the best in their studies.”

The Awards

The Student Excellence Awards are presented to five outstanding students.

Student Excellence Award recipients (5) receive:

• $1000
• A trophy
• a framed certificate signed by the Vice Chancellor
• acknowledgement of award on their Australian Higher Education Academic Statement (AHEGS)

Student Excellence Award-Runner Ups (5) receive:

• $500
• A framed certificate signed by the Vice Chancellor
• Acknowledgement of award on their Australian Higher Education Statement (AHEGS)

2024 Student Excellence Award Recipients

Miso Ju, Bachelor of Nursing - winner of Outstanding Leadership

As President of the Coffs Harbour Nursing Society, Miso has demonstrated outstanding leadership, with the society growing to become the University’s largest active group. Miso is the first international student ambassador at the Coffs Harbour campus and a Research Futures Scholar with the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine. Outside of her studies, Miso works as an Assistant in Nursing and volunteers with St John Ambulance and local soup kitchens.

Student in blue polo with stethoscope around neck and sim doll in background

Meiyi Li, Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) - winner of Community Engagement Excellence

Meiyi has contributed significantly to the University and broader Gold Coast community. As Secretary for student association Coastrs in 2023, youth mental health organisation Batyr x SCU Executive Team member, and as an international student representative, Meiyi fosters inclusivity, mental health awareness and cultural engagement. Through these roles, Meiyi has organised orientation events, mentored new students and contributed to inclusion activities.

Natasha Parkinson, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy - winner of SCU Engagement Excellence

As Co-President of the Occupational Therapy Student Alliance (OTSA) at the Gold Coast campus, Natasha oversees club activities, manages social media, designs merchandise and ensures compliance with university guidelines. She created OTSA jumpers, launched the inaugural ‘Meet the Therapists’ nights and facilitated orientation activities that connected students with industry professionals. She has contributed to positive study experiences for OT students.

Alanah Osborne, Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology - winner of Outstanding Sporting Spirit

Alanah has demonstrated commendable sporting leadership through her roles as a UniSport MySay Sports Ambassador, UniSport Nationals Women’s Touch Team Manager and University Team Captain for Mixed Touch. Alanah has led initiatives to break down barriers to participation in sports, founded the SCU Run Club and participated in the Gold Coast Marathon and Samson Fitness Challenge. Alanah also works as a Gym Attendant at SCU Fitness Centre & Pool.

Keyarrah Sweetwater-Delauney, Bachelor of Indigenous Knowledge - winner of Indigenous Excellence

Keyarrah provides support to Indigenous students through her roles as a Wayfinder for Gnibi College and Indigenous Australian Student Services (IASS) and as an Access and Inclusion Support Officer and Tutor. Keyarrah is also a vocal advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and a participant in local Indigenous events. In addition to her studies, Keyarrah also works full-time as a Student Experience Officer in the Faculty of Education.

Bachelor of Indigenous Knowledge student Keyarrah De Launey

Award categories

Student Excellence Awards will be granted in recognition of students who demonstrate excellence and impact through a significant contribution to enhancing the student experience and fostering positive change or community engagement, leading to lasting impact.

Outstanding Leadership

Evidence of outstanding leadership of a club or society, or other significant student focused leadership activity either individually, managing a team or as part of a program run by the University.

Community Engagement Excellence

Evidence of significant work in a volunteer or paid capacity leading to positive social change or community advancement focusing on positive social change in areas of diversity, inclusion, equal opportunity, the environment or other areas of significance.

SCU Engagement Excellence

Evidence of outstanding positive contribution and/or impact to the campus culture and life of Southern Cross University (e.g., through the SCUMates, Peer Assisted Learning (PALS), Orientation and Events, Ally Network, SCU Social Sports and Ambassador programs).

Outstanding Sporting Spirit

Evidence of outstanding leadership in sports or a significant positive contribution to enhancing the student experience through SCU sports (team management, volunteering etc).

Indigenous Excellence

Evidence of significant achievements made by Indigenous students, such as overcoming barriers or challenges within or external to the University environment, outstanding contributions to the community, other students or other individuals.

Previous winners

Meet our previous award winners

Discover our incredible past award winners who have distinguished themselves in the areas of leadership, volunteering, community engagement and sport.

Contact the team for help.

studentawards@scu.edu.au