Student Excellence Awards - Southern Cross University

Portrait of Vice Chancellor Tyrone Carlin

A message from the Vice Chancellor

These Awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of our students to leadership, volunteering, sport, the arts, and engagement within the University and our broader communities. I wish all finalists and winners the very best and congratulate them for their commitment to enriching the student experience and creating lasting, positive change. Last year, we celebrated the achievements of our extraordinary students, whose contributions span from student societies and cultural initiatives to championing mental health, advancing Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and encouraging participation in sport and community service. Our winners represent the very best of our student community.

Professor Tyrone Carlin, Vice-Chancellor & President, Southern Cross University

2025 Student Excellence Award Recipients

Banujan Kuhaneswaran, PhD Candidate - 2025 Southern Cross University Student of the Year

Banujan Kuhaneswaran is recognised for his exceptional leadership, advocacy, and contributions to building a more connected and inclusive student community. Through his active involvement in student representation, peer mentoring, and volunteer programs, Banujan has consistently demonstrated empathy, initiative, and vision. His commitment to service and his positive influence across the University make him a deserving recipient of this year’s top honour.

Anagha Sivaprasad, Master of Nursing - winner of Outstanding Leadership

Anagha Sivaprasad exemplifies outstanding leadership through her vision, initiative, and unwavering commitment to the Southern Cross University community. Anagha demonstrates exceptional leadership as a Student Ambassador, representing SCU with professionalism and warmth at career expos, campus tours, and graduation ceremonies. Anagha leads by example - uplifting others through encouragement, inclusion, and community spirit.

Georgia Collis, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy - winner of Community Engagement Excellence

Georgia Collis is an exceptional student leader and community advocate whose work spans health, education, and cultural inclusion. As a Student Ambassador and committee member of the Occupational Therapy Student Association (OTSA), Georgie has actively strengthened student engagement and fostered supportive, inclusive networks for her peers. Through leadership, volunteerism, and advocacy, Georgie exemplifies community engagement excellence, inspiring positive social change and fostering inclusiv

Paige Wilkie, Bachelor of Nursing - winner of SCU Engagement Excellence

Paige Wilkie is a dynamic contributor to Southern Cross University, whose energy and dedication have significantly enhanced student engagement across campus. As Founder of the SCU Stingrays Netball Club and SCU Run Club, she has created inclusive opportunities for students to connect, participate in sport, and foster friendships, with over 100 students engaged weekly. Her initiatives provide a supportive, welcoming space that encourages physical activity, wellbeing, and social interaction

Benjamin Guse, Master of Osteopathic Medicine - winner of Outstanding Achievement in Co-Curricular Excellence

Benjamin Guse exemplifies outstanding co-curricular excellence through his exceptional achievements as an elite decathlete representing Southern Cross University and Australia. Balancing rigorous academic study with the demands of training across ten diverse track and field disciplines, Benjamin has demonstrated extraordinary resilience, discipline, and determination. Benjamin was also recognised at the 2025 Gold Coast Student Excellence Awards, winning Excellence in Promoting Sports & Wellness.

Award criteria

The Award will be granted in recognition of a students who demonstrate excellence in the following areas.

Outstanding Leadership

Evidence of outstanding leadership of a club or society, or other significant student focused leadership activity either individually, managing a team or as part of a program run by the University.

Community Engagement Excellence

Evidence of significant work in a volunteer or paid capacity leading to positive social change or community advancement focusing on positive social change in areas of diversity, inclusion, equal opportunity, the environment or other areas of significance.

SCU students can self-nominate or be nominated by another SCU student or staff member.

SCU Engagement Excellence

Evidence of outstanding positive contribution and/or impact to the campus culture and life of Southern Cross University (e.g., through the SCUMates, Peer Assisted Learning (PALS), Orientation and Events, Ally Network, SCU Social Sports, SCU Sports, SCU Vollies and Ambassador programs).

Outstanding Achievement in Co-Curricular Excellence

Evidence of and demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and impact through co-curricular activities at Southern Cross University and beyond. It recognises individuals whose contributions in sports, art, literature, performance, or other creative and leadership pursuits have earned them formal recognition at the University, state, or national level.

Previous winners

Meet our previous award winners

Discover our incredible past award winners who have distinguished themselves in the areas of leadership, volunteering, community engagement and sport.

Contact the team for help.

studentawards@scu.edu.au