Another round of Southern Cross graduates ready to transform tomorrow

Doctor of Philosophy graduand Ellie Saberi will receive the Chancellor’s Medal for her thesis on how organisational champions can support healthcare professionals to effectively identify and respond to Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and help drive changes in healthcare practices and systems to better address it.

“I feel humbled and honoured to receive the Chancellor’s Medal. I strove for excellence in my PhD and I tried to make sure I continued to do my volunteer work whilst completing it. This meant many long hours and sacrifice, but I felt that it was important because I wanted to make a difference to the lives of individuals impacted by IPV. I did this without any expectation of recognition or reward, but receiving this medal acknowledges the importance of that effort,” said Ellie.

“I hope that my research can be used to strengthen the ability of health services to better identify and respond to IPV.”

Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science Gurpreet Singh will graduate in the same ceremony. Years ago, Gurpreet enrolled as a student ambassador and has since become a well-known figure within the University community.

“It took one voice to guide me toward my career, and being a student ambassador gave me the chance to be that voice for others. The role was incredibly rewarding, and being able to represent the University and share my passion for sport and exercise was something I truly valued," said Gurpreet, Doctor of Philosophy graduand.

“After graduating, I’ve stepped into a new chapter as a lecturer at Southern Cross, where I’m excited to continue to give back by teaching the next generation of sport and exercise scientists. I’m also continuing my research to help bridge the gap between science and real-world sport performance.”

International student Nelini Jayathilake, originally from Sri Lanka, will also be crossing the stage this week. She’ll graduate with a Master of Business.

“I chose Southern Cross because its Master’s by Research program aligned perfectly with my academic interests. The opportunity to work under the guidance of esteemed academic supervisors in the field of Information Systems and IT further strengthened my decision. My experience at the University was enriching, providing me with a strong research foundation, invaluable mentorship, and the skills I needed for a successful career,” said Nelini.

Paul Anthony Fradale, a fully remote student born in the US and based in Japan, is also graduating with a Doctor of Philosophy. He’s the living proof of success in juggling work and study while navigating various geographical locations and times.

“My experience at Southern Cross was very fulfilling and highly supported, even as a fully remote student working in Tokyo, Japan. I could not have asked for better advisors than my Southern Cross team. I chose this University because the school I run was partnered with Southern Cross for a joint three-year research and development project regarding Blended Learning,” said Paul.

Soon-to-be Doctor of Philosophy, Dusty McLean, investigated the ecology and conservation of the northern long-nosed potoroo in north-eastern New South Wales in his thesis.

Dusty chose that topic for his thesis because, “aside from my interest in mammal fauna, I was drawn to the fact that it required an applied approach to ecology and conservation, and that the concepts and methods were transferable to a variety of threatened fauna species,” he said.

“I am now employed as an ecologist and am enjoying applying my skills in the environmental industry. My PhD fine-tuned my research and writing skills, which are proving valuable in the workplace. I also work as a consultant with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) on a contract basis, which allows me to continue contributing to conservation efforts for some of the species featured in my thesis,” said Dusty.

Alumna Julie Granger, who served on the University Council for twelve years, will receive the title of Honorary Doctor at the ceremony. Currently based in Sydney and working as a barrister, Julie began her legal career in 2001 after completing a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (Hons) at Southern Cross.

Gold Coast graduation ceremonies —15th and 16th April 2025

Occasional addresses (listed chronologically):

• Ms Julie Granger, Barrister, 7 Wentworth Selborne
• Distinguished Professor Anne Graham, Director of the Centre for Children and Young People, Southern Cross University
• Mr Hermann Vorster MP, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland for Burleigh and Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Student Attraction
• Professor Mary Spongberg, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Office of Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Southern Cross University
• Ms Sharon Hunneybell, Founder of Gold Coast Innovation Hub, Queensland Innovation Advisory Council Member

Watch the ceremony livestreams here.