Southern Cross Matters

The effort involved on the part of so many across the University to create the conditions in which those students who crossed the stage last week to receive their degrees and diplomas from the Chancellor could accomplish that ambition is simply inspiring. So too the work behind the scenes of the teams who plan and bring the ceremonies to life and of course, at the centre of things, our graduating students – each of whom has their own remarkable story to tell.

In one of our ceremonies last week, the academic procession comprised near on 40 colleagues, each in their own unique academic dress, each there to honour and celebrate the achiement of our graduating cohort and in a deeply symbolic way, to reflect something of the ethos and spirit of the University. I am not sure that I have ever, across the course of my career, been a part of a procession comprising so many colleagues and I found it deeply moving and humbling – and I could tell that the assembled graduates and their families felt very special too. To be there at a graduation is, in my estimation, one of the simplest yet at the same time one of the most powerful and joyous things that we can do to participate more fully in the life our our University and to honour and respect the accomplishments of our graduating students and the support their their families have offered them in their journey.

I hope you will really enjoy this month’s edition of Southern Cross Matters and that an even greater number of colleagues than ever will attend and participate in the remaining graduation ceremonies scheduled for 2025.

Warmest wishes

Tyrone

“Southern Cross is moving from strength to strength in our rankings. We have had stand-out results in the 2024 QS World University Rankings, and a top 100 placing in the Times Higher Education Young Universities globally,” Professor Spongberg said.

For Careers and Employability Senior Manager Leanne Baker, the 5-star ranking for employability reflects the University’s commitment to student success and work integrated learning. “The Australian Government’s QILT data shows us that more than 90 per cent of Southern Cross graduates are employed within four months of graduating,” Leanne said.

“The Careers and Employability team, our educators, placement coordinators and immersive learning experiences are all important elements in preparing our students to hit the ground running when they graduate and enjoy a fulfilling career.”

“I spoke to students about the need to be career ready from the outset. And beyond looking for a job, to really think about the purpose of their career and consider what they want to contribute to society,” Dr Caldicott said. 

Dr Caldicott is a Senior Lecturer, specialising in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) with the Faculty of Business, Law and Arts. Her research investigates how WIL enables ‘self-authorship’ within students.

“Self-authorship is a form of development where a young adult progresses from relying on others, such as parents and teachers, and takes steps to becoming the author of their life,” Dr Caldicott said.

Dr Caldicott’s PhD research explains how WIL allows students to emerge as professionals, navigate relationships with others, and build their sense of self.

“Work integrated learning has always been an important component of our business degree, and we have committed to making the experience more explicit in the new Bachelor of Business rolling out in 2026,” she said.

“Industry placements and projects provide students with authentic and practical experience, preparing them for their careers in a way that classes can't. They often have a positive societal impact and can also lead to full-time employment for students after graduation. It is a win-win for everyone.”

This meant many long hours and sacrifice, but I felt that it was important because I wanted to make a difference to the lives of individuals impacted by IPV. I did this without any expectation of recognition or reward, but receiving this medal acknowledges the importance of that effort,” said Ellie.

Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science Gurpreet Singh graduated in the same ceremony. Years ago, Gurpreet enrolled as a student ambassador and has since become a well-known figure within the University community.

“It took one voice to guide me toward my career, and being a student ambassador gave me the chance to be that voice for others. The role was incredibly rewarding, and being able to represent the University and share my passion for sport and exercise was something I truly valued," said Gurpreet, Doctor of Philosophy graduate.

“After graduating, I’ve stepped into a new chapter as a lecturer at Southern Cross, where I’m excited to continue to give back by teaching the next generation of sport and exercise scientists. I’m also continuing my research to help bridge the gap between science and real-world sport performance.”

Alumna Julie Granger, who served on the University Council for twelve years, was conferred the title of Honorary Doctor at the ceremony. Currently based in Sydney and working as a barrister, Julie began her legal career in 2001 after completing a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (Hons) at Southern Cross.

We thank Julie for her exceptional dedication to the Council's governance and growth.

Determined to contribute to the University’s ambitious 2030 strategy, Victor aims to drive innovation, digital transformation, analytics, and AI in the higher education experience.

“Digital transformation, data analytics and CX have been core to my work across industries and sectors, shaped by the invaluable exposure I gained while working at top consulting firms. I’ve always been very close to the education sector as a consultant, student, alumnus, entrepreneur and even an adjunct professor.”

After graduating with a Bachelor of Computer Science and gaining a few postgraduate certifications from top-tier universities around the world, including Cambridge, UNSW and Universidad de Valparaiso, Victor’s skill set is wide and varied, ranging from computer science to business, data analytics, sustainability, and teaching.

Entrepreneurship is also ticked off Victor’s list, as a few years ago he co-founded an EdTech start-up focused on enhancing the quality of education in higher education institutions by improving compliance with national and independent quality assurance authorities. 

“I never imagined that one of my dreams would come true, and I would find myself working for a university. I’m incredibly proud to contribute my two cents to education,” said Victor. 

Originally from Chile, Victor arrived in Australia in 2022, where he had previously completed his university studies. 

“I hold a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education from the same university where I earned my Bachelor’s degree. I also spent ten years as a part-time adjunct professor. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and I love being part of a fantastic regional university that truly shines in education programs.”

In true Aussie-fashion, Victor is a coffee lover – drinking between six to eight cups per day, one of the top coffee drinkers in his team!

If you see Victor on campus, feel free to address him in Spanish or, as he says with a laugh, in SQL —his third language.

¡Bienvenido, Victor! 

Connect with Victor at victor.bahamondes.benavente@scu.edu.au and LinkedIn. 

“It was a very positive, successful collaborative event with our partners, and great to be out in the market with them at a time when Southern Cross has been enjoying a wonderful uplift in popularity, not only because of the great success of Access25, but also the type and calibre of courses we are offering.

“Launching Access25 last year has really given us an edge in the international student market because it’s simplified the decision-making process for students, with a transparent look at how much it’s going to cost them, they know upfront they are getting the best value education in Australia. 

“There's a lot of positivity about Southern Cross, about the way we look after international students, studying in the Southern Cross model and all the academic and social support which is very important for their success.

“Then there’s a lot of enthusiasm for The Hotel School because of the inbuilt internships and the amazing 100 per cent graduate employment rate, which is very attractive for international students looking to study in Australia.”

At the heart of the celebration was the universal language that unites us all: food. From Ethio-African plates to the classic Aussie BBQ, food stalls served up a delicious range of dishes that reflected the diverse backgrounds of our university family.

A favourite feature of Fusion Festival is the ‘Fusion Cookbook’, a collection of recipes submitted by students and staff, each accompanied by the personal stories and cultural traditions behind the dish.

“Food has a unique way of bringing people together,” said Dr Chithira Johnson, Director of Student Support & Success. 

“Sharing these recipes is more than just about food, it’s about embracing different cultures, stories, and traditions that make our university such a vibrant and inclusive place."

Coffs Harbour Master of Nursing student, Yingjie Cai, said the Fusion Festival was a fun day on campus and a big highlight in her academic year.  

“You get to see all the different cultures through traditional clothes, dancing, and amazing food. Everyone’s so proud to share where they come from. It really makes you feel like part of a big, diverse family.”

"Ignite was created as a dedicated opportunity to help our leaders pause, reflect, and grow in the role, both individually and as colleagues,” he said.

“It’s about sparking meaningful conversations and taking fresh actions to support the people in our teams to flourish in practical ways."

At its core, the program is designed to encourage, equip and enable directors to bring out the best in themselves and their teams, lead with authenticity, champion values and purpose, create inclusive, high-performing environments, collaborate across disciplines and partnerships, and foster leadership capability through professional development. 

The program follows the success of the 2023 IMPACT Academic Leadership Program, building on its momentum to extend leadership support across all levels of the University. Stay tuned for more updates from the Organisational Development team!

"I was inspired by the depth of belonging, connection, and community that seems to underpin healthcare in India."

"We witnessed firsthand some of the best demonstrations of what it means to be human."

"It inspired me to prioritise community connection in my future nursing practice." 

“We seek to share the profound learning opportunities that come from collaborations with universities across borders,” said the students who organised the exhibition.

If you couldn't make it to the Gold Coast campus to catch the exhibition, you can view a snapshot on the Southern Cross University Facebook page. 

Internationally, a news article published in the Science journal has lauded MCB on the Great Barrier Reef as the only geoengineering trial with broad public support thanks to traditional owner and community engagement. 

Marine scientists Emily Howells and David Abrego have secured much-coveted dream jobs as the new co-directors of Lizard Island Research Station on the Great Barrier Reef. The duo retains teaching and research links with the University. Highlights: exclusive story (print and online) with Nine Newspapers (SMH, The Age, Brisbane Times, WA Today). Plus Eco Voice and Global Travel Media.

David Heilpern calls for a review of mental health applications in NSW courts in the wake of a significant increase in charges being dismissed under the Mental Health Act, including for celebrities. Highlights: News Corp (incl front page of Daily Telegraph); Sky News; 2GB radio.

Led by Amy Cutter-Mackenzie-Knowles, new Education research about the impact of floods on children was published in The Conversation (4,500 reads) and picked-up by other media outlets. Highlights: ABC NSW Drive; ABC North Coast Breakfast; Byron Echo; School News; The Sector.

Keep up to date at scu.edu.au/news where you will find the University’s media releases, feature articles, podcasts, videos and more.