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January 20, 2025

Regional graduates celebrate academic achievements and personal journeys

Students from Eurobodalla, Bega Valley, Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven shine at ceremonies marking the completion of their degrees

Students from the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ of ¾«¶«´«Ã½’s (UOW) Eurobodalla, Bega Valley, Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven campuses will come together over the next two weeks at graduation ceremonies to celebrate the completion of their degrees.

A total of 90 students will graduate across three campuses, beginning at UOW Eurobodalla on Tuesday 21 January at Bay Pavilions in Batemans Bay, where 22 students will graduate. UOW Bega Valley will follow on Wednesday 22 January at the Bega Civic Centre, with 29 students graduating. Students from UOW Shoalhaven and UOW Southern Highlands will celebrate as one on Thursday 30 January at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, with 39 students graduating from both campuses.

UOW Acting Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Eileen McLaughlin said the regional ceremonies hold a special place in the heart of the ¾«¶«´«Ã½.

“Regional graduation ceremonies are always incredibly special because they capture the unique sense of close-knit community and connection that defines our regional campuses,” Professor McLaughlin said.

“Graduation ceremonies are an opportunity to celebrate not just the academic achievements of our students, but also the personal journeys they’ve undertaken—often balancing work, family, and study to reach this milestone.

“As our graduates step into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them the knowledge and skills they have worked so hard to achieve. But they also carry something even more profound: the friendships, resilience, and confidence that come from navigating the challenges of higher education.

“These ceremonies mark the beginning of an exciting journey for each graduate, and I have no doubt that they will go on to make a significant difference in their communities and beyond.”

Jessica Campbell from Eurobodalla is the first in her family to graduate from university. Ever since she was a young child Jess always knew she wanted to be a teacher. Dedicated to her local community Jess was determined to stay close to home, completing her Bachelor of Arts degree after finishing high school at Carroll College in Broulee.

This week Jess will graduate with a Master of Teaching from UOW Eurobodalla. Jess has been a dedicated student representative, mentor and instrumental in many outreach programs engaging with the community during her time at UOW. She has participated in countless programs from pre-school programs, primary school activities and high school outreach programs sharing her university experience. She will deliver the Vote of Thanks at the graduation ceremony.

Sophie Kearns, a Master of Teaching graduate from Bega Valley campus is starting her teaching career after rediscovering her passion for education. Originally from Ireland and raised in the Bega Valley, she balanced her studies with full-time work and community activities.

Her experience at UOW, including teaching placements, strengthened her skills and commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds. She plans to teach in Western Australia before returning to the Bega Valley, where she hopes to take on leadership roles. Sophie will deliver the Vote of Thanks at the graduation ceremony. Her journey is a result of the impact of education and the benefits of studying at a regional campus.

Lachlan Congram from Eurobodalla campus will graduate with a Master of Teaching (Secondary). Diagnosed with autism and dyslexia in high school, Lachlan was inspired by teachers who saw his potential and supported his learning, motivating him to pursue teaching.

He chose UOW Eurobodalla for its supportive environment, where staff and peers helped him thrive despite self-doubt. Lachlan gained hands-on experience as a Learning Support Officer and later began teaching at Batemans Bay High School, where he faced challenges but ultimately regained his confidence through the support of colleagues. Now with over a year of teaching experience, Lachlan is committed to helping students navigate challenges and inspire future generations, just as his teachers once did for him.