Nominate for the 50th Anniversary Awards

Jillian Broadbent AC

Selection criteria

The Jillian Broadbent AC Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will be awarded to an outstanding individual graduate and/or group of alumni: 

• Who demonstrates a strong entrepreneurial mindset, creative approach and innovative leadership within their industry, profession, field of research or expertise; and
• Who achieves outstanding recognition as an innovator by conceiving and implementing work in new and creative ways, showcasing a tangible and positive impact on the lives of others.

About Jillian Broadbent AC

Jillian Broadbent AC is a trailblazer whose career exemplifies the entrepreneurial mindset, creative leadership, and innovative vision that this award celebrates. ​ 

Throughout her tenure as Chancellor of UOW, Jillian Broadbent AC guided numerous groundbreaking initiatives and her forward-thinking leadership had a tangible and positive impact on the university, its students, and the wider community.

Professor Ken McKinnon AO

Selection criteria

The Professor Ken McKinnon AO Award for Young Alumni will be awarded to an outstanding individual graduate and/or group of alumni:

• Who is 35 years or younger in the year of the award.
• Who demonstrates exceptional success in their chosen industry/profession.
• Who demonstrates significant contribution to their profession and/or community at local, national and/or international levels.
• Whose work and/or contribution to their community or professions is likely to be an inspiration to the next generations of graduates and the community at large.

About Professor Ken McKinnon AO

Professor McKinnon is a visionary leader who transformed the University of Wollongong into a globally recognised institution. His forward-thinking leadership shaped UOW’s commitment to excellence and community service.​ Professor McKinnon’s vision for the university’s future aligns perfectly with the potential and promise of young alumni who, through their success and contributions, will inspire future generations.

Dr Guy Warren AM

Selection criteria

The Dr Guy Warren AM Award for Arts and Culture will be awarded to an outstanding individual graduate and/or group of alumni:

• Who demonstrates excellence and innovation in the arts, culture and creative sectors and / or whose efforts promote the understanding and value of cultural diversity.
• Who has made significant contributions to society through creative and cultural disciplines.

About Dr Guy Warren AM

Dr Guy Warren AM, with his extensive exhibition history and representation in major international collections, exemplifies artistic excellence. His groundbreaking contributions to Australian and global art have advanced the understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.

Dr Aunty Barbara Nicholson

Selection criteria

The Dr Aunty Barbara Nicholson Award for Social Impact will be awarded to an outstanding individual graduate and/or group of alumni:

• Who demonstrates a significant positive impact on a/the local, national, or international community through their work within the profit, non-profit or public sector.
• Whose work demonstrates improvement to social, economic, environmental or political challenges of a/the community.

About Dr Aunty Barbara Nicholson

Dr Aunty Barbara Nicholson is an educator, poet, and mentor, whose work not only addresses systemic injustice but also nurtures cultural understanding and intellectual growth. Aunty Barb is a leader for positive change, with her remarkable legacy of selflessness, perseverance, and tireless service to justice and advocacy having lasting impact for future generations.

Professor Justin Yerbury AM

Selection criteria

The Professor Justin Yerbury AM Award for Research and Scholarship will be awarded to an outstanding individual graduate and/or group of alumni: 

• Who demonstrates sustained and impactful contributions to their field of research at local, national, or international levels.
• Who has achieved recognition and raised profile through excellence in research, contributing to new and influential knowledge which advances the community, or brought greater recognition to their field.

About Professor Justin Yerbury AM

Professor Yerbury was an extraordinary scientist whose impactful research into Motor Neurone Disease (MND) has transformed our understanding of the disease on a global scale. Professor Yerbury’s sustained contributions, from pioneering research breakthroughs to leading preclinical trials, have left a remarkable legacy of scholarship perseverance and the transformative impact of research.

About the award

As part of UOW’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the University Council is proud to introduce the 50th Anniversary Council Award for Excellence. This prestigious award recognises outstanding individuals—staff, students, alumni, and community members—who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing UOW’s vision. Recipients will be recognised for their excellence and innovation, measurable impact on the University or wider community, and dedication to sustainability, equity, and UOW’s future success.

Selection criteria

The award will be based on the following selection criteria:

• Demonstrated excellence and innovation in advancing UOW's vision
• A measurable impact on the University community, students, or broader society
• A commitment to sustainability, equity, and the future success of UOW