Kullari NAIDOC Awards recognise UNDA Broome staff and students

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Winter 15-7-2011

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame, Fremantle Campus

Publication Place

Broome

Abstract

A vision to provide excellence in teaching, research and valuing community-based Indigenous knowledge are the key attributes which won the title of Person of the Year for the Deputy Vice Chancellor of The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Broome Campus, Professor Lyn Henderson-Yates.

Professor Henderson-Yates, also the Director of the University’s Nulungu Centre for Indigenous Studies, received the award at the 2011 Kullari NAIDOC Awards held in Broome as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations.

As the first Indigenous Deputy Vice Chancellor to be appointed at any university in Australia, Professor Henderson-Yates described the award as “a major highlight” of her 34 years working in Indigenous education.

“I am very proud to have received this accolade and that two of our students were also recognised,” Professor Henderson-Yates said.

“These awards show that the Broome Campus is serious about its work with the community and has set high standards for the teaching and research services it offers to individuals and communities.”

Notre Dame Broome Education student, Sharon Davis, won the Student of the Year Award and Nursing student, Mary Lane, was recognised as the Young Leader of the Year.

Both students were noted for their strong leadership qualities and dedication to improving the lives of Indigenous people through their careers.

Ms Lane began her career in health 10 years ago after studying to become an Aboriginal Primary Health Care Worker.

She has worked with Indigenous communities affected by mental health, drug and alcohol problems, and became the first Aboriginal nursing student to undertake three weeks clinical training in Vietnam.

Last year, Ms Davis became the first Indigenous student to win the Vice Chancellor’s Medal in the School of Education for achieving high academic results.

Ms Davis’ goal is to teach in remote schools to assist in providing improved educational outcomes from Indigenous children.

“As an Indigenous student, it’s pretty amazing to be recognised by the Indigenous community,” Ms Davis said.

“Indigenous education is a passion of mine. It’s something I hold close to my heart, especially to be able to empower Indigenous people to help close the gap in regards to education quality and equity.”

Media Contact: Leigh Dawson (+61) 8 9433 0569, Mob (+61) 0405 441 093

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