Media releases

More than 4000 Federation graduates have been invited to view a virtual graduation acknowledgement to celebrate their achievements. 

The students from across the university’s campuses, partner providers and Federation TAFE will be celebrated in the video, as they have not been able to come together for in-person ceremonies this year. 

The ceremonial video also features new processional music composed and conducted by Federation’s Arts Academy Director, Associate Professor Richard Chew. It features a professional chamber orchestra led by internationally acclaimed violinist Dunja Lavrova and was recorded in the Ballarat Trades Hall in recognition of the University’s 150th anniversary in 2020. 

Prizes have been awarded to high-performing students, including Bachelor of Veterinary and Wildlife Science student, Elizabeth Mullens, who was awarded a University Medal. 

Ms Mullens said she had always been interested in science and animals and had jumped at the chance to enrol in the course. 

“When I got the offer for it, I felt like I just had to take the opportunity,” she said. 

Ms Mullens attributes her success to hard work, her interest in the subjects, her faith and her supportive and encouraging group of friends. 

Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) student Alex Walter received the Vice-Chancellor's Award for Excellence and thanked his teachers for their support. 

“They always made time for one-on-one conversations to work though issues or for deeper explanations of topics of interest, were always very helpful and made the course as enjoyable as it is,” Mr Walter said. 

The graduation acknowledgement video ‘Celebrating our Graduates 2020’ can be viewed from 15 October at federation.edu.au  

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

“Recognising the hard work and achievements of our students through graduation ceremonies is a cherished tradition of the university and while we will not be able to come together in the halls of our communities this year, we are proud to be able to honour their efforts through the virtual space.” 

“Our graduates have taken the challenges of 2020 head on and we invite them to pause and celebrate their success.” 

“We are proud to have provided our graduates with the skills employers need as the number one rated university in Victoria for graduate starting salaries and full-time employment.”