SCU receives citations for outstanding contributions to student learning

A preparatory program that opens access to university, the development of inspirational teaching and innovative curriculum in arts education, and a project to transform the business curriculum have resulted in three national Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning for Southern Cross University staff.

The 2014 Citations were announced by the Minister for Education Mr Christopher Pyne MP yesterday (September 16).

The Citations, from the Office of Learning and Teaching, are highly competitive and reward the diverse contributions made by individuals and teams to the quality of student learning. The recipients will receive a prize of $10,000 each, to be presented at an awards ceremony in Brisbane later this month.

The Southern Cross University recipients are:

Dr Alexandra Cutcher, in the School of Education, for ‘inspirational teaching and innovative curriculum that effectively prepares visual arts educators to address the complex demands of their profession’.

Education for Sustainability in Bachelor of Business Team, comprised of Dr Tania Von Der Heidt and Dr Geoffrey Lamberton, from the Southern Cross Business School, and Dr Erica Wilson, from the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management. The team received a citation for a ‘scholarly-driven, team-based approach that transforms the undergraduate business curriculum through Education for Sustainability’.

The Preparing for Success Program (PSP) Team – Dr Suzi Hellmundt, Mrs Bronwen Graydon, Ms Jenny McGuire and Ms Meredith Kayess – received a citation for ‘opening access to university and future work through a transformative preparatory program for regional students’. The program owes its success to the many staff who have contributed to PSP over the years.

Southern Cross University Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Lee congratulated all the recipients.

“This is an outstanding result reflecting dedication and excellence by all of our very worthy recipients. It’s a testament to the commitment of our staff to providing a high quality learning experience for our students,” Professor Lee said.

Photo: Some members of the Preparing for Success Team, from back left Jenny McGuire and Suzi Hellmundt, and front from left Bronwyn Graydon and Meredith Kayess.