Media releases

More than 760 Federation University Australia university and TAFE students will celebrate their achievements at five graduation ceremonies in Ballarat this week.

They will be among more than 1200 graduates across the University’s campuses to mark the academic milestone in front of family, friends and classmates in March.

Among them will be University Medal recipient Gabrielle Magree, who not only achieved a near-perfect Grade Point Average in her Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) studies, but exemplified Federation University’s living values.

In the classroom, Gabrielle focused on language and culture, opening the conversation about inclusivity and cultural appreciation.

“I was driven by acknowledging culture and that we come from a place of privilege being part of the dominant culture and that’s what shapes the education system – I challenged that.”

Gabrielle is now working at the Dharma School in Daylesford, after starting there in her final year of study under the Victorian Institute of Teaching’s Permission to Teach initiative.

Graduating alongside Gabrielle on Tuesday, 19 March is Federation TAFE Diploma of Nursing student Ella Donovan-Clancy who is receiving the Vice-Chancellor's Award for Excellence.

In 2023, Ella was among the first TAFE student representatives on Federation’s Learner Excellence Committee, providing a voice for TAFE students on how Federation can improve student experience and outcomes.

This contribution led Ella to become the first TAFE student to be awarded the Student Leader of the Year at the 2023 Fed Awards.

Ella’s studies have ignited a passion for women-centred care, and she has now enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Midwifery at Federation University.

“Coming out of a VCAL background through school, I really enjoyed studying my diploma. It was challenging but really flexible for my learning,” Ella said.

“I’ve had some incredible support and mentors helping me with growth in leadership as well as my studies. Now, I’m really keen to delve into the double degree and receiving this award was very unexpected, but exciting.”

Graduation ceremonies will be held at Founders Theatre, Mt Helen Campus, on Monday 18, Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 March.

Quote attributable to Federation University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Duncan Bentley

“Graduations are a special time for students to gather with their family and friends and take great pride in all they have achieved.”

“We are delighted to see our graduates celebrate their success and carry their knowledge and passion into their communities.”