Champions of causes ranging from global food security to youth advocacy have been recognised in the
The awards celebrate everyday Queenslanders and international alumni who are making a difference in their communities.
Winners include Professor Glenn Denning, Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumnus of the Year, who is a Professor of Practice at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs in New York, where he has played a crucial role in advancing global food security and educating future development practitioners.
“My greatest professional satisfaction comes from knowing that the graduates of my program at Columbia are out there doing great work in the world,” Professor Denning said.
“After 15 years, there are now more than 650 of them working in over 75 countries.
“Their commitment, resilience and successes are my inspiration.”
The winners were nominated from more than 340,000 Â鶹ÊÓƵ alumni around the world and announced at a ceremony at Customs House in Brisbane on 30 October 2024.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Vice-Chancellor said the recipients were a testament to the social value of universities.
“These 17 alumni are global and national leaders in diverse fields including agriculture, medicine, sustainability, sport, diplomacy and the arts – and they are in all that they do.
“Their achievements demonstrate the transformative impact of education on individual lives, as well as the extraordinary difference they make when they channel the opportunities they have had into making a meaningful difference for others.
“Through them, our University has a profound impact around the world and we are proud to acknowledge their contributions.”
Another 2024 recipient is Astrid Jorgensen OAM, founder of musical phenomenon Pub Choir, who was recognised for her efforts to build community connections through music while raising funds for charitable causes.
Brenden Hall OAM PLY, one of Australia’s flag bearers at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, was also among the winners, and noted the significance of scholarship support to his successes.
“During my university studies I was lucky enough to receive a number of sporting scholarships. This made my journey through university easier, enabling me to build strong networks, establish vital communication skills and lessen the financial strain as a Paralympic athlete,” Mr Hall said.
Among the other recipients are Georgie Tunny, cohost of Network 10’s The Project; Beny Bol OAM, youth worker and founder of the African Youth Support Council; and Jeremy Hunt, who – at 25 years of age – has completed his medical doctorate, founded a community health startup, and recently departed for Oxford as the 2024 Queensland Rhodes Scholar.
Image above left: Distinguished Young Alumni Award recipient Astrid Jorgensen OAM.
Full list of 2024 Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni Award winners
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumnus of the Year
Created by Alumni Friends
- Professor Glenn Denning for outstanding leadership and impact in international agriculture, food security and sustainable development.
Vice-Chancellor's Alumni Excellence Awards
- Beny Bol OAM for exemplary leadership in community and youth engagement, including expanding access to education.
- Elisabeth Bowes PSM for strengthening economic, political and cultural relationships between Australia and the United Kingdom.
- Ellie Buttrose for outstanding contributions to art curatorship, advancing Australia’s cultural interests and contributions on the global stage.
- Dr Jillann Farmer for global leadership in health, alongside many accomplishments as a medical practitioner.
- Scott Hutchinson for outstanding contributions to the building and construction industry, and as a philanthropist and sustainability advocate.
Distinguished Young Alumni Awards
- Arthur Alla for contributions to reconciliation, amplifying Indigenous voices and promoting cultural pride.
- Brenden Hall OAM PLY for remarkable sporting accomplishments in international para-swimming.
- Astrid Jorgensen OAM for bringing communities together to celebrate the joy of music while raising funds for important causes.
- Georgie Tunny for outstanding contributions to journalism as a presenter, producer and reporter.
Indigenous Community Impact Award
- Ronald Griffiths for a distinguished career in National Rugby League (NRL) coaching and advocacy for Indigenous participation in sport.
International Alumnus of the Year
- Associate Professor Nguyễn Văn Trà o for promoting foreign language education in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, and for strengthening educational ties between Australia and Vietnam.
Contribution to Sport Alumni Award
- Anita Palm OLY for outstanding commitment to sports governance and individual accomplishments in volleyball and softball.
Gatton Gold Medal
- Dr Gregory Rebetzke for an exceptional career as a renowned agricultural scientist and for contributions to global food security through improved crop production.
Colleges' Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni Award
- Emeritus Professor Ross Sheil AO for a distinguished medical career and significant surgical advancements in liver transplantation.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Graduates of the Year
Created by Alumni Friends
- Jeremy Hunt for exceptional academic achievement and contributions to sport, community health and vaccine awareness.
- Stacey Weir for exceptional academic achievement and accomplishments as a performer, teacher and community volunteer.
for all recipients.
Images available via
Media contact
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni and Community Engagement
advmarketing@uq.edu.au
+61 7 3346 3166
