Flinders University has celebrated its 2025 Alumni Awards by recognising an extraordinary group of graduates whose leadership and dedication have transformed communities locally and globally. The ceremony, held in Adelaide, placed particular focus on First Nations advocates, medical pioneers, legal professionals, and early-career innovators whose impact extends across education, healthcare, law, science, the arts, and social justice.
Among the most notable honourees was Professor Jacqueline “Jackie” Huggins AM FAHA, a Bidjara and Birri-Gubba Juru woman and one of Australia’s most respected First Nations leaders. She received the inaugural John Moriarty AM Impact Award, honouring her decades of work in reconciliation, Indigenous rights, and social justice. Alongside her, 12 other awardees were celebrated for driving systemic change, advancing knowledge, and inspiring future leaders in their fields.
Celebrating Leaders Driving Change
The Alumni Awards highlight graduates who embody courage, innovation, and service. These honourees have achieved excellence while advancing equity and opportunity in diverse sectors. Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Romy Lawson praised the 2025 recipients for their achievements that span law, health, education, and creative industries.
Professor Huggins, who was named a Member of the Order of Australia in 2001, continues to be a force in advocacy and education. This year, she also became the ABC’s inaugural Elder in Residence, a role designed to strengthen cultural knowledge and leadership pathways. In her acceptance, she emphasised her commitment to mentoring future Indigenous leaders across business, government, and community.
Another significant recognition was given to Nick Llewellyn-Jones, Principal at Norman Waterhouse Lawyers. With expertise in native title, resources, and renewable energy law, he was awarded a Distinguished Alumni Award for championing justice for First Nations communities. His work in Federal Court cases reflects his vision of building “ethical capitalism” that provides long-term economic justice.
Dr Roger Hunt, a founding member of Daw House Hospice and a pioneer in palliative care, was honoured as Convocation Medallist for his groundbreaking leadership in end-of-life care. His decades of contributions span clinical practice, research, teaching, and legislative reform.
Distinguished Alumni Across Professions
The 2025 awards showcased alumni whose careers embody service and innovation. Their impact demonstrates how diverse disciplines collectively advance human wellbeing. Key honourees include:
- Linda Matthews – Recognised for leadership in government and not-for-profits, particularly in championing rights of disadvantaged groups.
- Dr Bushra Othman – Honoured for her humanitarian service as a surgeon delivering medical aid in Gaza.
- Dr Anne Tonkin AO – Acknowledged for her leadership in clinical pharmacology and her tenure as Chair of the Medical Board of Australia.
The awards also highlighted the rising generation of professionals. Early Career Alumni recipients are shaping new possibilities in healthcare, disability inclusion, and creative industries. Their work reflects agility, innovation, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Early Career Innovators to Watch
Emerging alumni achievers recognised this year demonstrate that impactful leadership begins early. Their projects and careers provide models for how young professionals can bring new ideas into established sectors.
- Dr Henry Bowen, Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, awarded for research supporting health and wellbeing of first responders.
- Dr Chidozie “Elvis” Chidi-Ezeama, founder of Biomicrology, recognised for developing equitable healthcare solutions.
- Dr Benjamin Holman, NSW Department of Primary Industries, honoured for innovations in sustainable agrifood science.
- Rachael Johinke, developmental educator and disability advocate, awarded for advancing inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities.
- Meriya Poudel Baniya Chhetri, clinical lead nurse, recognised for person-centred disability care initiatives.
- Ren Williams, actor and theatre maker, honoured for contributing to South Australian theatre and creating opportunities for emerging artists.
Together, these honourees highlight how early innovation and advocacy can rapidly reshape communities. Their achievements demonstrate that leadership is not bound by age or career stage.
Alumni Awards 2025: Honourees at a Glance
Table of Award Recipients
| Award Category | Recipient | Degree(s) | Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convocation Medallist | Dr Roger Hunt | MBBS 1981, MD 2003 | Leadership in palliative care, legislative reform |
| John Moriarty AM Impact Award (Inaugural) | Prof. Jacqueline “Jackie” Huggins AM FAHA | DipEd 1988, BA Hons 1990 | Advocacy for reconciliation and Indigenous rights |
| Distinguished Alumni | Nick Llewellyn-Jones | LLB/Legal Practice 2003 | Native title and renewable energy law, economic justice |
| Distinguished Alumni | Linda Matthews | BA 1990 | Leadership in government and social equity |
| Distinguished Alumni | Dr Bushra Othman | MBBS 2010 | Humanitarian medical service in Gaza |
| Distinguished Alumni | Dr Anne Tonkin AO | MBBS 1982, PhD (Medicine) 1992 | Leadership in medical regulation and pharmacology |
| Early Career Alumni | Dr Henry Bowen | B Psych Science 2015, Grad Dip Psych (Adv) 2023 | Research into health of military and emergency workers |
| Early Career Alumni | Dr Chidozie “Elvis” Chidi-Ezeama | MEng (Biomedical) 2022 | Healthcare innovation and accessibility |
| Early Career Alumni | Dr Benjamin Holman | MBA Future Business 2025 | Innovations in agrifood sustainability |
| Early Career Alumni | Rachael Johinke | B Disability & Developmental Education 2023 | Disability inclusion advocacy |
| Early Career Alumni | Meriya Poudel Baniya Chhetri | B Nursing 2021 | Person-centred disability services in nursing |
| Early Career Alumni | Ren Williams | B Creative Arts (Drama) 2020, Hons 2021 | Theatre and creative arts leadership |
Building a Legacy of Social Impact
The Alumni Awards underline Flinders University’s role in shaping graduates who are fearless in addressing global challenges. From First Nations advocacy to humanitarian medicine, each honouree represents a commitment to leadership with purpose. The recognition not only celebrates individual success but also encourages the next generation to carry forward these legacies.
The establishment of the John Moriarty AM Impact Award marks an important milestone in amplifying Indigenous leadership. It ensures that contributions advancing equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are recognised at the highest level within the university. Professor Huggins’ recognition as the inaugural recipient sets a strong precedent for future honourees.
As the alumni network expands, the institution continues to foster an environment where graduates lead across industries while upholding values of justice, inclusion, and sustainability. The 2025 awardees stand as proof that education combined with vision can drive systemic change and inspire generations to come.
Trending FAQ
Who is Jacqueline Huggins and why is she significant?
Professor Jacqueline “Jackie” Huggins AM FAHA is a respected First Nations historian, author, and advocate. She was awarded the inaugural John Moriarty AM Impact Award for her lifelong work advancing reconciliation and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
What are the Flinders University Alumni Awards?
The Alumni Awards celebrate outstanding graduates who have contributed significantly to their professions, communities, or society. The awards span categories including Convocation Medallist, Distinguished Alumni, Early Career Alumni, and the John Moriarty AM Impact Award.
Which fields did the 2025 honourees represent?
This year’s recipients represented fields such as Indigenous advocacy, law, palliative care, humanitarian medicine, disability inclusion, agrifood sustainability, theatre, and biomedical engineering.
What is unique about the John Moriarty AM Impact Award?
Established in 2025, this award honours graduates whose work has significantly improved the wellbeing, empowerment, and advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It is named after John Moriarty AM, a renowned Indigenous leader.
How do the Alumni Awards impact the community?
By recognising leaders across disciplines, the awards inspire current and future graduates to pursue excellence with social purpose. They highlight how education can drive change, foster equity, and address pressing global and local challenges.
