Community Engagement Award Finalists
Awarded to an individual or team who have made an outstanding contribution to the community or built strong links with the community through outstanding partnership and collaboration.
Dr Alice Neikirk, School of Law and Justice
Dr Alice Neikirk has made a significant impact on the Hunter community through her work with refugees. By establishing, cultivating and growing partnerships with community service providers and community members, Alice has created platforms for sharing stories and experiences across various formats and venues, advancing intercultural and cross-community dialogue. She has also led efforts to improve access to justice for refugee community members.
Dr Mitch Smith, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy
Dr Mitch Smith has established a high-impact partnership with Hunter Sports Centre (HSC), solidifying the joint commitment of the University and Lake Macquarie City Council to positively impact the community. This collaboration includes a state-of-the-art athlete testing facility that benefits the community and provides employment for Exercise and Sports Science graduates. It also features classes at HSC, enhancing student experience while alleviating resourcing pressures. A student-led clinic provides low-cost exercise physiology services to the community, and critical student placements.
Celebrating 50 Years of Open Foundation
Catherine Burgess, Dr Jo Hanley, Lauren Crask, Charlotte Verstegen, Jessica Collins, Tegan Brown, Lilly Haines, Olga Zelinsky, Gillean Shaw, Jocelyn Redman, Dr Ann Hardy
In 2024, Open Foundation celebrated 50 years of changing lives. As Australia’s oldest enabling program, it has helped 70,000 students from diverse backgrounds access higher education. To celebrate this milestone, the project team delivered a community engagement program to showcase the transformational power of Open Foundation. Through events, media and exhibitions, the activities reached 1.4 million people, built community pride in Open Foundation, and elevated the University’s reputation as a leader in equity and excellence.
The Greater Bank Finance Academy Financial Literacy Program
Dr Adrian Melia, Kathy Rimmer
NSW high schools are now offering money management lessons through the Newcastle Business School and Greater Bank, as part of the Greater Bank Finance Academy. This initiative comes in response to concerns that nearly half of all young Australians are at risk of falling into a debt spiral by the age of 25.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.