Celebrating our staff
Staff across the university have been celebrated for their achievements at the 2025 Vice-Chancellor's Staff Excellence Awards.
Staff across the university have been celebrated for their achievements at the 2025 Vice-Chancellor's Staff Excellence Awards.
These annual awards recognise the outstanding achievements and contributions of ACU staff across all areas of our university. The awards are a valued opportunity to celebrate excellence across academic and professional roles, and to showcase the many ways our colleagues are helping deliver on the ambitions of Vision 2033.
ACU staff were acknowledged across a range of categories, with Michelle Lopez awarded the 2025 Vice-Chancellor's Medal for Excellence in recognition of her leadership and dedication in shaping ACU’s Graduate Research School and higher degree research (HDR) program.
Graduate Research School – Michelle Lopez
Michelle is the inaugural Director of ACU’s Graduate Research School (GRS). Her work exemplifies ACU’s commitment to mission-driven research and innovation for the common good, ensuring the next generation of researchers contribute to flourishing communities both locally and globally.
Inclusive Education: Solomon Islands Deaf Language and Culture Program - Associate Professor Mellita Jones OAM
Associate Professor Mellita Jones OAM was recognised for her significant leadership of a multi-phased initiative to improve the life experiences of deaf people in Solomon Islands. Led by Mellita and representatives of Catholic Education Authority of the Archdiocese of Honiara, the project trains deaf and hearing people across Solomon Islands in sign language, before sending them into remote communities where deaf children and young adults live. Its purpose is to ensure sign language becomes a common language for people in remote communities.
Five2Study – Aaron Cornwall, Tenille Duggan and Elaine Rotor
The team from Student Veteran Services were recognised for developing Australia’s first higher education transition platform for Australian Defence Force veterans and families. Co-created with veterans, the accessible web platform delivers a holistic, values-based educational experience that eases the transition from service to study and supports academic success, wellbeing, and personal growth.
Transformative Education Leader – Dr Betty Frino
Dr Betty Frino was recognised for her inclusive, values-driven pedagogy which inspires students and colleagues alike, setting a benchmark for excellence. Her mentorship extends beyond the classroom - supporting wellbeing, career development, and ethical practice. Dr Frino’s work profoundly enhances student experience, making her a standout educator.
Global media coverage of the ‘Two Popes’ - Rev. Dr James McEvoy, Associate Professor Joel Hodge, Dr Sandie Cornish, Professor Clare Johnson, Jacqui Remond, Dr Claudio Betti, Associate Professor Maeve Heaney, Associate Professor Darius von Güttner, Dr Antonia Pizzey, Dr Paul Taylor, Louise Crossen, Emilie Ng, and Kathy Vozella.
A committed team of ACU scholars and strategic communication staff were recognised for delivering expert media commentary following Pope Francis’ death and Pope Leo’s inauguration. The team represented ACU across television, radio, online, and print platforms, reaching a global audience of 2 billion. Their collaborative efforts set a new standard for strategic partnerships through informed, respectful public dialogue during a globally significant religious moment.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce – Kelly Roberts
Kelly was recognised for his key role in implementing ACU’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Plan, which has strengthened employment pathways and retention. His leadership and advocacy continue to create lasting, culturally safe change and sets a powerful example of equity and inclusion in action.
Angelle Laurence collected the award on behalf of Kelly Roberts.
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