ECU Students celebrated for remarkable contributions
Monday, 16 December 2024
The Vice-Chancellor's Student Awards recognises students or student teams that give back to ECU or the broader community in the areas of Community Engagement, Contribution to University Life, and Reconciliation.
Three outstanding Edith Cowan University (ECU) students were recognised and awarded the Vice-Chancellor's Student Award at this year's Student Excellence Celebration.
The Vice-Chancellor's Student Awards recognises students or student teams that give back to ECU or the broader community in the areas of Community Engagement, Contribution to University Life, and Reconciliation.
“It’s so inspiring to see the passion and dedication our students bring to ECU and the wider community,” said Professor Clare Pollock. “Each winner has had a remarkable impact, and it’s a privilege to celebrate their achievements and hear their stories.”
Championing Inclusivity in STEM
The Vice-Chancellor’s Student Award for Community Engagement was presented to engineering student Ashley Ure for her transformative work within ECU and the broader community.
Since joining ECU in 2021, Ashley has been a driving force behind the success of the ECU Racing Motorsports Club, leading the team to national and international recognition. Beyond the racetrack, Ashley has made it her mission to break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Her advocacy for gender diversity in engineering has been showcased through public events, media appearances, and university initiatives, where she has inspired women and underrepresented groups to pursue careers in STEM.
Driving Equity and Accessibility
The Contribution to University Life Award went to long-time ECU advocate Dale Gavlik, who has spent five years championing equity and accessibility for students with disabilities.
As a member of the Disability Access and Inclusion Sub-Committee, Dale has led projects that have enhanced campus accessibility and promoted digital inclusion through initiatives such as staff training modules and the widely celebrated Making Technology Accessible for Everyone video.
“I hope that the contributions that I have made to ECU through volunteering are able to help anyone with a disability realise that studying at university is possible,” said Dale.
Dale’s efforts have not only improved the university experience for current students but have also created a foundation for future progress in equity and inclusion.
Advocating for Social Change
A special commendation for the Contribution to University Life Award was awarded to PhD student Giselle Woodley, recognising her influential work in sexuality education, consent, and digital rights.
Giselle’s research and advocacy have played a pivotal role in shaping national campaigns, including the Australian Government’s Consent Can’t Wait initiative. Giselle is also co-founder of Bloom-Ed, a Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) advocacy group.
“I am particularly interested in the benefits of RSE, and real solutions that work in relation to these issues which ultimately increase individual wellbeing, supports healthy relationships and reduces sexual violence,” said Giselle.
While Giselle was unable to attend the ceremony, her supervisor, Professor Lelia Green, accepted the award on her behalf.
Celebrating Exceptional Students
This year’s Vice-Chancellor’s Student Awards highlighted the exceptional contributions of ECU students who have made a lasting impact on their peers, their communities, and the university itself.
"Dale, Ashley, and Giselle are an amazing example of what’s possible with hard work, creativity and the desire to make a difference,” said Professor Pollock. “Their achievements are a testament to their dedication, and all of us here at ECU are excited to see what they’ll do next."
The Vice-Chancellor’s Student Awards were presented during the ECU Student Excellence Celebration on Friday, 22 November, which also honoured ECU’s Top 100 Students.