14 December 2006

Prestigious medal awarded to first class honours student

The University of Canberra's first Indigenous honours graduate who also made a significant contribution to the campus community has been honoured with the University of Canberra's most prestigious award, the Herbert Burton medal.

Paul Collis graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Communication in Media/Multimedia Production before undertaking an Honours year in Creative Communication. He achieved the equal top score in the Honours year, earning First Class honours in the process.

Originally from Bourke and part of the Barkindji people, Paul taught Aboriginal studies to Indigenous adults and youth in gaols in Maitland, Cessnock and Mount Penang before embarking on a degree at University of Canberra. He has tutored at the University and is the coordinator of The University's Aboriginal Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ATAS). He has been an active member of the Harmony Committee, contributing to programs for Indigenous students and multi-cultural events.

It was Paul who organised a traditional smoking ceremony following the tragic death of University student Clea Rose, to assist Clea's family and the campus community in their grieving process. It is one example among many of the reconciliatory acts in which Paul engages.

The Herbert Burton Medal is awarded to a graduating student considered to have achieved outstanding academic results as well as having made a valuable contribution to the University or wider community. The Medal is named in honour of the late Emeritus Professor Herbert (Joe) Burton, who chaired the committee that recommended the establishment of the University's precursor institution, the Canberra College of Advanced Education.

Paul will be awarded the Herbert Burton Medal on Thursday December 14 at 6pm by University of Canberra's Chancellor, Professor Ingrid Moses. The presentation will take place at the annual Burton Revels function for graduating students and Alumni, held at the University of Canberra, preceeding the two day period of the University's end-of-year graduation ceremonies, to be held in the Great Hall of Parliament House.

UC Communications

Gaye Morrison
T: 02 6201 5855
M: 0409 470 755

Kaddie Pass
T: 02 6201 2681

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Last Updated on August 1, 2005