2020 University of Newcastle Excellence Awards celebrated
The University of Newcastle has recognised the outstanding achievements of staff at its 2020 Excellence Awards.
Held in the Great Hall on Callaghan campus, the event was attended by many of the 200 finalists across 15 award categories and watched by more than 100 people via live stream.
In his opening address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO acknowledged the likelihood of being able to celebrate the event in person a few months ago was unknown, due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The University’s response to COVID-19 was a theme throughout the evening, as many of the finalists were nominated for their pandemic-related projects.
“Out of the challenges of this year has come great innovation and inspiration,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“2020 has brought new ways of communicating, new ways of working together and new ways of demonstrating how a University can play a pivotal role in our communities.”
Students were also a focus of the evening. Final year Bachelor of Communication student Monique Aganovic joined Professor Zelinsky on stage as MC; students provided the musical entertainment, were employed as wait staff for the evening, and 10 student ‘Social Distancing Champions’ were on-hand to ensure the event complied with its COVID-Safety Plan.
A total of 217 nominations were received across the award categories and judging panels, made up of academic and professional staff from across the institution, chose the finalists.
The University of Newcastle congratulates all Excellence Awards winners on their outstanding achievements throughout 2020.
Please see the full list here.
Related news
- Grassroots communities share storytelling to preserve environmental gems
- Rare colour shifting discovered in iconic Australian frog
- Hydro Harvester secures $1.9 million for WA farm trial
- Student-led design creates legacy for Newcastle City Campus
- National trial spotlights cultural safety in health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
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.