Post by University of New England (AU)

We are thrilled to announce the 2025 UNE Alumni Award winners, recognising exemplary contributions to public service, agricultural innovation, rural health, refugee advocacy and rock art conservation. “Each year, the impressive nominations for UNE Alumni Awards inspire us,” said Vice-Chancellor Professor Chris Moran. “We are reminded of the profound impact our graduates have on communities and industries across Australia and around the world.” Distinguished Alumni Awards were presented to: Michele Bullock, Australia’s first woman Reserve Bank Governor; Dr Gerard Davis, a pioneer in agricultural biotechnology and global innovation; Gerard McManus, press freedom defender, journalist and political advisor; Emeritus Professor James Rowe OAM, former Sheep CRC CEO whose leadership advanced genomic sheep breeding; Associate Professor Joseph Suttie, for rural health research and medical education including Australia’s largest inland cardiac screening program; and Ben Thompson, a visionary business leader transforming SME workforce management. Community Alumni Award recipients are: Dr Dunya Alruhaimi, for supporting multicultural and refugee communities in regional NSW; Dianna Baker OAM, for fundraising for essential medical equipment and advocating gender equity in local government; and Donald Page OAM, for championing coastal protection, establishing the Cross Border Commissioner role and engaging young people. Rising Stars: Dr Jillian Huntley, for rock art conservation and ochre provenance research with inclusive partnerships; and Andrea Londono, for advancing inclusive early childhood education for culturally and linguistically diverse families. “We applaud every individual who was nominated… They demonstrate how a UNE education can be applied to address complex challenges and change lives,” Professor Moran said. Read the full article in comments below. We’ll share each winner’s inspirational story in the coming weeks. #ProudToBeUNE #UNEAlumni