Previous years recipients

Previous medal recipients

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution • 2025

NBN Television

For over 60 years, Nine NBN has been more than a broadcaster in regional New South Wales, it has been a steadfast partner of the University of Newcastle.

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution • 2024

Emeritus Professor John O'Connor

Emeritus Professor John O’Connor stands as a beacon of influence and advocacy within the University of Newcastle community since joining the University in 1981 as a member of staff. John’s profound contributions have shaped the institution’s trajectory in science, education, and community engagement.

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution • 2023

Mark and Kirralee Hughes

Through his own experience in the recovery bed, Mark and his wife Kirralee Hughes knew they needed to make some changes for brain cancer patients. They realised how underfunded and under-researched brain cancer was - in fact, survival rates for patients haven’t improved in 30 years.

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution • 2022

Emeritus Professor Tim Roberts AM

As a distinguished conservationist, scientist, researcher, and educator, Emeritus Professor Tim Roberts AM has helped shape the University into the world-class institution it is today.

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution • 2021

Emeritus Professor Alan Roberts

Emeritus Professor Alan Roberts AM has dedicated his career to providing students with life ready skills to make their mark in industry and society.

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution • 2020

Friends of the University

For nearly forty years, the Friends have fostered a connection between the University and the wider community and have supported the Student Scholarships and Prizes programme to the value of $1M.