Nominations are closing soon
Since 1975, the University of Newcastle has proudly recognised the remarkable achievements of more than 200 alumni.
This year marks 50 years of celebrating the innovation, creativity, and exceptional leadership of our global alumni community.
We are searching for alumni who inspire others and make a genuine impact in their field, whether on a local or global stage. Join us in uncovering and amplifying the extraordinary stories of our alumni by nominating them for an award.
Visit our nomination guidelines to make an award-winning submission. Self-nominations are also encouraged.
Nominations close midnight Thursday 1 May 2025 (AEST).
2025 Alumni Excellence Awards
Key Dates
Nominations Open
Nominations Close
2025 Recipients Announced
Alumni Excellence Awards Event
Award Categories
The Awards acknowledge achievements of extraordinary alumni across nine categories:
* Only University of Newcastle staff can put forward nominations for the Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution
and the Alumni Award for Outstanding Volunteerism.
Introducing this year's Alumni Awards Artist
Renae Lamb
Bulaguy Miranggul
Acrylic paint and coloured pen on canvas
2024
Bulaguy Miranggul (meaning Saltbush) was created by Renae Lamb, a proud Wiradjuri and Wongibon woman from Central West NSW.
Renae's work is a deeply personal reflection, shaped by the guidance of the Wollotuka Institute and her transformative experience as a 2019 Ma and Morley scholar. The piece incorporates elements of the University’s heritage, intertwined with the midnight dreaming—a fusion of our land, communities, seas, and waterways.
A central element of the artwork is the inclusion of saltbush, a plant found across NSW—from the coast to the bush, and from rivers to the sea. Saltbush represents the shared connections between communities, emphasising collaboration and unity. Beyond its resilience and nourishment, saltbush also embodies traditional ways of knowing and learning, serving as a powerful symbol of identity.
The full artwork serves as a powerful tribute to the 60th Anniversary of the University of Newcastle, and a section of the original work has been selected to celebrate the 50th Alumni Excellence Awards.
We are proud to feature Renae as the 2025 Alumni Excellence Awards Artist.
View last year's recipients
2024 Alumni Excellence Awards
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.