The Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO

The Alumni Medal

Honorary Degree – Doctor of Letters 2019 Bachelor of Commerce 1979

Former Australian Ambassador to the United States

With more than four decades of service to Australia, from Chief of Staff to Prime Minister John Howard to Australian Ambassador to the United States, The Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO has championed Australia’s interests on the global stage, driving innovation, strategic partnerships, and national progress. We’re proud to recognise his extraordinary impact as the 2025 recipient of The Alumni Medal.

Janice Petersen

Newton-John Alumni Medal

Bachelor of Arts (Communication Studies) 1999

Presenter, SBS World News

As a trusted face of SBS World News, Janice Petersen has spent decades amplifying diverse voices, challenging stereotypes, and shaping national conversations on identity and inclusion. From anchoring live coverage of major world events to telling stories that reveal the human experiences behind the headlines, Janice’s career embodies journalism at its best, creating understanding, empathy, and connection. We’re proud to honour her as the 2025 recipient of the Newton-John Alumni Medal.

NBN Television

Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution

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. From its first broadcast from Mosbri Crescent in 1962, NBN has supported the University’s growth, celebrated its milestones, and amplified the voices of students, alumni, and the wider community.

Dr Raymond Kelly

Indigenous Alumni Award

Honorary Degree - Doctor of Letters 2006 Doctor of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) 2015

Chairperson & Councillor for Sydney Newcastle Region, NSW Aboriginal Land Council

A proud Dhangatti and Gumbaynggirr man, Dr Ray Kelly has dedicated over 40 years to safeguarding Indigenous language, culture, and heritage. From leading groundbreaking language revitalisation initiatives to advocating for First Nations knowledge at every level, his work is helping communities connect with their history and ensure it lives on. We’re proud to recognise his impact as the 2025 recipient of the Indigenous Alumni Award.

Dr Shyam Bishen

International Leadership Award

Doctor of Philosophy (Chemistry) 1989

Head, Centre for Health & Healthcare, World Economic Forum

With a career spanning continents and impacting millions, Dr Shyam Bishen has dedicated more than two decades to advancing global health equity and strengthening healthcare systems around the world. As Head of the Centre for Health & Healthcare at the World Economic Forum, he has led pandemic responses, shaped international health agendas, and worked alongside global leaders to build a healthier, more resilient future. We’re honoured to recognise his leadership as the 2025 recipient of the International Leadership Award.

Dr Jean Marie Vianney Bishop

National Leadership Award

Master of Midwifery Studies 2024

Maternal and Child Health Specialist, WA Country Health Service

When Dr Jean Bishop was just five, a bomb destroyed her home in Rwanda, taking her family, her community, and everything she knew. She survived against all odds, carried to safety by a stranger after two days among the dead. From that moment, her life became a testament to resilience and purpose. Determined to improve the lives of others and address the maternal and newborn health crises in Kenya, she founded the Grace Maternity Hospital and Midwifery School in Voi, creating a legacy of care and compassion that will shape countless futures. We’re proud to honour her as the 2025 recipient of the National Leadership Award.

Dr Jessica Buck

Beryl Nashar Young Researcher Award

Bachelor of Biomedical Science 2013 Diploma in Languages 2013

Head, First Nations Childhood Cancer Research, The Kids Research Institute Australia

Proud Kamilaroi woman, Dr Jessica Buck, has spent her career transforming cancer research for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. She now leads Australia’s first program of its kind, focusing on culturally safe, community-led research to improve outcomes for young First Nations patients and their families. We’re proud to celebrate her as the 2025 recipient of the Beryl Nashar Young Researcher Award.

Elliot Waters

Young Alumni Medal

Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) 2021

Host and Producer, The Dysregulated Podcast

Having navigated mental ill-health for much of his life, Elliot Waters has turned his lived experience into a platform for change, inspiring people across Australia and beyond. As a Lived Experience Expert, he has volunteered hundreds of hours with the Black Dog Institute and is the creator and producer of the Dysregulated Podcast, which has been downloaded over 30,000 times across 70 countries. Elliot’s advocacy has made him a powerful voice in mental health education, research, and the fight to destigmatise mental illness. We’re proud to honour him as the 2025 Young Alumni Award recipient.

Laura Prael

Alumni Award for Outstanding Volunteerism

Bachelor of Arts 2007

Director, LEP Digital

Driven by a deep belief in the power of education, Laura Prael has dedicated years to giving back to the next generation through mentoring, public speaking, and strategic advisory roles. As one of the University’s most passionate and committed alumni volunteers, she has shared her time, insight, and expertise to empower countless students and alumni to embrace their potential and thrive in their careers. We’re proud to honour her as the 2025 Alumni Award for Outstanding Volunteerism recipient.