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Celebrating outstanding professional staff
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The Vice-Chancellor's Professional Staff Recognition Awards celebrate outstanding professional staff who provide exceptional service, who are bold innovators, who are passionate about safety and who show strong leadership.
Discover the outstanding 2025 award recipients in the areas of Exceptional Service, Improvement & Innovation Excellence, Safety Excellence, Leadership Excellence and Team Excellence.
Service Excellence
Alex Parks
University Library
Alex is recognised for her innovative approach to highlighting SCU’s research contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By integrating SDG data into researchers’ Cross Connect profiles, she has enhanced the visibility and accessibility of the University’s research strengths for internal and external stakeholders. Alex’s meticulous, forward-thinking work exemplifies service excellence, supporting SCU’s reputation and delivering lasting value to the research community.
Danny McShane
Office of the Vice President (Operations)
Danny is recognised for his unwavering support and collaborative approach during the EVP project, going above and beyond to assist colleagues and ensure project success. His integrity, reliability, and approachable nature built trust and confidence across the team, making him a go-to expert in critical moments. Danny’s dedication and commitment to helping others exemplify SCU’s values and the highest standards of service excellence.
Dylan Le
Study Well Unit, Student Support & Success
Dylan is recognised for his outstanding commitment to the student experience, coordinating and delivering over 13 sport and recreation programs across SCU’s campuses. His dedication, warmth, and ability to connect with students and staff alike make everyone feel valued and supported. Dylan’s quiet, consistent contributions and personal touch exemplify service excellence in action.
Israel Pinheiro Ruas Junior
Technology Services
Israel is recognised for his exceptional commitment to service quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. He consistently provides efficient, supportive, and professional IT assistance, while developing tools and processes that improve the overall service experience. Israel’s mentorship, problem-solving, and dedication to continuous improvement set a high standard for service excellence across SCU.
Karime Silveira
Office of the Vice-President (Future Students & Outreach)
Kimy is recognised for her exceptional dedication to supporting both internal and external stakeholders, consistently going above and beyond to provide outstanding service to local schools. Her initiative, including the development of the pathways “cheat sheet” and the implementation of Diplomas in Gold Coast schools, has strengthened collaboration and delivered lasting impact. Kimy’s positivity, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence make her a valued member of the SCU community.
Kerrilee Sage
Faculty of Education
Kerrilee is recognised for her outstanding leadership and commitment to enhancing the student experience. She has not only led her own team of Officers but also trained and supported a large number of temporary and casual staff, ensuring high-quality outcomes during peak workloads. Kerrilee’s dedication, collaboration, and focus on service excellence have made a meaningful difference across the Professional Experience Office.
Jacqueline Behan
Financial Services
Jackie is recognised for her open, pragmatic, and supportive approach in guiding teams through complex financial matters. Her clarity, responsiveness, and fairness help navigate shifting priorities and ensure sound decision-making across multiple stakeholders. Jackie’s professionalism, collaboration, and commitment to helping others succeed set a high standard for service excellence at SCU.
Taylor Newling-Walkden
Study Well Unit, Student Support & Success
Taylor is recognised for her warm, precise, and student-focused approach as a First Year Advisor, ensuring students feel supported and confident during their first year. Her calm, effective handling of high-pressure periods, combined with her contributions to process improvements, demonstrates dedication to both students and colleagues. Taylor’s insight, generosity, and commitment to quality service exemplify SCU’s values and service excellence.
Peter Bligh-Jones
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Peter is recognised for his innovative and practical approach to improving SCU’s building projects, delivering creative engineering solutions with professionalism and precision. From BSF technology to larvae rearing boxes and sun-screened breeding areas, his work improves outcomes across multiple projects. Peter’s dedication, expertise, and quiet diligence exemplify service excellence and make a lasting contribution to the University.
Christine Martin
Southern Cross Global
Christine is recognised for her exceptional service in advancing SCU’s international engagement, from driving the Go Global 500 initiative to strengthening key partnerships and establishing new collaborations. Her strategic, collaborative, and solutions-focused approach ensures high-quality outcomes while supporting staff, students, and partners alike. Christine’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact on the University’s global presence and reputation.
Jegan Thangaraja
SCU Ventures
Jegan is recognised for driving operational excellence through the revitalisation of payment and collection processes at The Hotel School. His innovative improvements have enhanced efficiency, financial performance, and the overall campus experience. Jegan’s positive attitude, collaborative spirit, and dedication to excellence make him a valued contributor to the University.
Bernard Pienaar
SCU Ventures
Bernard is recognised for his outstanding leadership and hands-on support during the move of the Mary St Sydney campus to Phillip St. His clear communication, kindness, and willingness to help with every aspect of the relocation ensured a smooth and positive transition. Bernard’s dedication, positivity, and commitment to service excellence make him an exceptional asset to SCU.
Improvement and Innovation Excellence
Kate Wickman
Study Well Unit, Student Support & Success
Kate is recognised for her innovative approach to student support, transforming how engagement and outcomes are tracked through dynamic dashboards. Her work has shifted the team from reactive to proactive decision-making, enhancing both efficiency and the quality of care for students. Beyond the tools she creates, Kate fosters a culture of learning and collaboration, empowering colleagues to embrace innovation and continuous improvement.
Brooke Bingon
Work Integrated Learning Unit, Faculty of Health
Brooke is recognised for her leadership and innovation in transforming the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Partner Agreement process from paper-based to a streamlined online system. Her initiative has improved efficiency, compliance, and the experience for students, staff, and industry partners, setting a benchmark for cross-faculty adoption. Brooke’s professionalism, collaborative approach, and focus on high-impact solutions make her a trusted and inspiring leader in process improvement.
Christy Welldon
Office of the Vice-President (People & Culture)
Christy is recognised for her creativity, innovation, and collaborative approach in strengthening SCU’s systems and compliance processes. From leading the transition from manual timesheets to an electronic system to ensuring thorough follow-through on complex issues, her work has delivered lasting operational improvements. Christy’s methodical, supportive, and solutions-focused approach ensures colleagues can navigate compliance with confidence and clarity.
Dani Edwards
Office of the Vice-President (Future Students & Outreach)
Dani is recognised for her innovative problem-solving and analytical skills in improving phone campaign processes across domestic and international cohorts. By identifying automation opportunities and refining workflows, she has enhanced both efficiency and the student experience. Dani’s deep knowledge, collaboration, and commitment to tangible impact exemplify improvement and innovation excellence at SCU.
Emily Hamilton
Organisational Development, People and Culture
Emily is recognised for pioneering the adoption and practical use of AI across SCU, designing skill-building initiatives that empower both Academic and Professional staff. Her innovative programs, including AI Bitesized Learning and AI Learning Pathways, provide tailored, accessible opportunities for colleagues to confidently explore AI in everyday work. Emily’s strategic, empathetic, and design-oriented approach is shaping the future of work at SCU, blending innovation with meaningful impact.
Helen Chu
Legal Office - Governance Services
Helen is recognised for her creative and proactive approach to improving legal services at SCU, from updating precedents and processes to enhancing the Legal Office website. Her efficiency, clarity, and dedication have strengthened both functionality and client support, earning her the trust and admiration of colleagues. Helen’s innovation, collaborative spirit, and approachable leadership make her a highly valued asset to the University.
Ana Munro
Office of Business Intelligence & Quality
Ana is recognised for her solutions-focused approach to process improvement, consistently enhancing review and quality processes across the University. She has strengthened business processes, policy frameworks, and regulatory responses, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. Ana’s meticulous attention to detail, collaborative style, and practical innovation ensure SCU operates efficiently and effectively under even the most demanding circumstances.
Cloe Jager
Digital, Marketing & Communications
Cloe is recognised for her creative, solutions-focused mindset, driving innovation across digital content and communications. From piloting new podcast formats to improving clarity and accessibility, her work enhances both engagement and strategic alignment. Cloe’s quiet leadership, collaborative approach, and commitment to continuous improvement make her an inspiring example of innovation in action.
John Crowder
SCU Ventures
John is recognised for his creativity and determination in transforming SCU Ventures’ admissions operations. His development of the AI-powered Student Eligibility Agent (SEA) and streamlined admissions systems has improved transparency, efficiency, and global partner engagement. John’s innovative mindset and relentless focus on improvement have strengthened SCU’s student recruitment and exemplify excellence in innovation.
Safety Excellence
Oliver Ferguson
Student Administration Services
Ollie is recognised for his exceptional commitment to safety, performing his warden duties with professionalism, diligence and unwavering attention to procedure. His ability to create both physical and psychological safety for colleagues and students strengthens the sense of trust and care within the SCU community. Known for his calm leadership - and his legendary cookies - Ollie brings warmth and wellbeing to every space he’s part of.
Annabelle Keene
Faculty of Health
Annabelle is a proactive and engaged safety leader who works closely with the WHS team to strengthen safe practices across her area. Her leadership in improving lab safety and developing pregnancy and reproductive hazard guidelines has set a new benchmark for care and compliance at SCU. Annabelle’s responsiveness, collaboration and enthusiasm make her a true ally in fostering a culture of safety and wellbeing.
Tony Coyle
Faculty of Science & Engineering
Tony is recognised for outstanding leadership in strengthening safety practices within SCU’s marine operations. His proactive approach - introducing targeted first-aid training and equipping all FSE vessels with improved emergency supplies - has lifted staff confidence and readiness across fieldwork environments. Tony’s commitment to practical, forward-thinking safety solutions reflects the very best of SCU’s values in action.
Leadership Excellence
Nikki Crowley
Student Administration Services
Nikki is recognised for her compassionate, people-centred leadership and her unwavering commitment to staff wellbeing and connection. She fosters a supportive, collaborative culture across the Coffs campus, championing initiatives that strengthen communication, community, and a genuine sense of belonging. Nikki’s steady presence, deep knowledge and authentic care make her an invaluable leader within SCU.
Dr Jess Oliver
Office of Business Intelligence & Quality
Dr Jess Oliver is recognised for her steady, thoughtful leadership during a complex period of TEQSA information requests, guiding her team with clarity, calm and unwavering support. She has cultivated a collaborative, family-like culture where people feel valued, motivated and able to do their best work. Her exceptional leadership sets a high benchmark at SCU and is deeply appreciated by those she leads.
Juliane Haag Petasny
Study Well Unit, Student Support & Success
Jules is celebrated for her heartfelt and proactive leadership in strengthening belonging and cultural connection among Brazilian staff at the Gold Coast campus. By creating opportunities for colleagues to come together, she has fostered genuine friendships, inclusion and a deeper sense of home within the SCU community. Her thoughtful, people-centred leadership has had a lasting impact on wellbeing, engagement and the culture of the campus.
Kara Morris
Technology Services
Kara is recognised for her clear, reliable and knowledgeable leadership, offering technical guidance and proactive support that keeps critical university systems running smoothly. Her deep expertise across cloud, AI, Microsoft and Oracle platforms enables SCU to adopt new technologies rapidly while maintaining excellence in service delivery. Kara’s foresight, generosity in sharing knowledge and unwavering commitment make her a trusted and highly valued leader within the SCU community.
Kayleen Wardell
Library Services
Kayleen is celebrated for her kind, trusting and generous leadership of the Librarian team, bringing deep expertise and a steady, supportive presence to every aspect of her work. She fosters an environment where people feel safe to explore new ideas, take ownership and collaborate with confidence, leading to meaningful innovation in service delivery. Kayleen’s clarity, respect and unwavering belief in her team make her a leader whose qualities inspire those around her.
Nadia Toppler
Southern Cross Analytical Research Services
Nadia is a leader who combines integrity with a calm, considered approach, creating a safe and inclusive environment for all staff. Her guidance and emotional intelligence have supported colleagues to grow both professionally and personally, earning her the respect of staff and external stakeholders alike. Nadia’s quiet strength, empathy, and commitment to excellence make her a truly deserving recipient of this Award.
Vicki Wood
Faculty of Education
Vicki demonstrated outstanding leadership as Placement Support Team Lead, guiding her team with fairness, kindness, and positivity during challenging times. She led by example, showing dedication and resilience while managing large workloads and ensuring placements ran smoothly. Vicki’s talent, commitment, and supportive approach make her a truly deserving recipient of this Award.
Debbie Aarons
SCU Ventures
Debbie leads with openness, warmth, and a steady hand, always making time to support her team and address any concern. Her clear communication and reassuring presence, particularly during the Sydney campus move, have guided staff with confidence and purpose. Debbie’s leadership inspires alignment with SCU values and makes her a truly valued and deserving recipient of this Award.
Team Excellence
Digital Team
Digital, Marketing & Communications
The Digital Team is recognised for their expertise, collaboration, and calm leadership in solving complex digital challenges across SCU. From leveraging AI in campaigns to streamlining workflows and supporting over 100 web authors, they deliver solutions that are both practical and forward-looking. Their people-first approach, strategic thinking, and quiet dedication set the standard for teamwork and excellence across the University.
SCU Careers and Employability Team
Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Quality)
The Career Success Team is recognised for their outstanding collaboration, innovation, and commitment to advancing student employability and industry engagement. Through initiatives like the SCU Festival of Careers and their curriculum contributions in units such as HLTH1006 and HLTH3004, they provide students with practical skills, professional confidence, and early exposure to career pathways. Their efforts - spanning workshops, one-on-one consultations, and industry networking - have delivered measurable impact, helping students secure graduate roles while strengthening SCU’s reputation for employability and student success.
Cyber Resilience Team
Office of the Vice-President (Strategy & Technology)
The Cyber Team is recognised for their outstanding contribution to building cyber awareness at SCU, delivering a highly effective and well-received Cyber Awareness course. Always approachable, responsive, and collaborative, they make cyber safety accessible, relevant, and engaging for all staff. Their professionalism, passion, and practical approach strengthen confidence and capability across the University.
Course Implementation and Publications (CIP) Team
Student Administration Services
The Curriculum Solutions Team is recognised for their collaborative and innovative approach to supporting university-wide curriculum reforms. Their meticulous work in mapping courses, units, and availabilities ensures seamless student progression while prioritising a “student first” approach. Bold, values-driven, and complementary in their strengths, this team exemplifies excellence through dedication, creativity, and teamwork.