Social Justice awarded at Notre Dame

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Fall 4-4-2007

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle

Publication Place

Fremantle

Abstract

A group of devoted students were awarded for their dedication to community service and social justice at The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle’s award ceremony in April.

The students were presented the Br Gerald T Faulkner award, initiated to acknowledge the contribution of a student to the area, through selfless community service.

The group received the award for their outstanding work setting up a St Vincent de Paul homework centre in Fremantle – a place which assists disadvantaged school children who struggle to complete their homework.

Former state youth representative for St Vincent de Paul and Behavioural Science student, Kate Mugliston, said the whole group is extremely proud to have been given this award.

“Receiving the Br Faulkner award reminds the students they have started something incredible that will help many young children and hopefully continue to attract support from the Notre Dame community for many years,” said Ms Mugliston.

The group of students from the School of Law became interested in social justice work after taking a law ethics unit. They developed a belief that education is one of the most important and basic ways to work for justice, and started volunteering at St Vincent de Paul homework centres.

Through this work the need for a homework centre in Fremantle was recognised and the group took it upon themselves to put one together.

“The students worked amazingly throughout the semester – drawing upon individual resources and support from the community at large to raise funds and awareness for the program. This included running a Christmas Charity Art Exhibition raising over $3000,” said Ms Mugliston.

A member of the group, law student Justin Geoghegan, said he felt extremely privileged to have had the opportunity to work with St Vincent de Paul establishing the homework centre.

“The centre gives local kids the opportunity to develop academic and social skills. Many of these students are from disadvantaged backgrounds or from families where English is not their first language. The time spent at the centre has been fun and rewarding for both the children and volunteers,” said Mr Geoghegan.

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