Nura Gili Indigenous Awards Night celebrates student contribution

Now in its third year, the Nura Gili Indigenous Awards Night has once again celebrated the remarkable accomplishments and commitment of UNSW Art & Design Indigenous students.

Each year, Nura Gili’s Indigenous Programs Unit and faculties present awards in two key categories – an Excellence Award for an undergraduate student based on academic merit and the Spirit Award which recognizes those undergraduate students who exemplify the characteristics of persistence, resilience, academic growth and attitude.

This year the Awards were presented during a formal ceremony and dinner in Leighton Hall in the Scientia Building on the Kensington Campus. UNSW Art & Design was represented by Dean, Professor Ross Harley and Program Director for the Bachelor of Fine Art, Associate Professor Paul Thomas. Students in attendance were Jordan Ardler, Dennis Golding, Ruth Saveka and Lisa-Jane Van Dyk. UNSW Art & Design's Indigenous Programs Director, Tess Allas managed the awards process.

Prof. Harley presented the Art & Design awards to the students with Billy Bain recognised with the 2015 Excellence Award (in absentia due to unforeseen circumstances) for his academic achievement over the course of not only first semester, but building considerably on last years’ academic results.  This year two impressive students were recognised with Spirit Awards. Jordan Ardler was celebrated for her volunteer student community contribution throughout the year and Dennis Golding in recognition of his peer support and ongoing volunteer community contribution.

Prof Harley highlighted the endeavour and achievements of Billy, Jordan and Dennis who were each visibly surprised and excited about being nominated and honoured by the University at this important annual ocassion.

The three awardees join celebrated past recipients Ethel-Anne Gundy and Shevaun Wright (2013) and John Waight, Scott Parlett, Jesse Ingrey-Arndell and Kylie Brennan (2014).

Each year these Awards provide a moment for students, their families and supporters to reflect on their achievements, to recognize and appreciate one another, as well as providing participating students with the opportunity to celebrate one another. It is a night of relaxation and fun.

UNSW offers its congratulations to Billy, Jordan and Dennis.