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Three teachers from The University of Western Australia are among some of Australia’s finest university educators recognised in the Federal government’s 2017 Australian Awards for University Teaching, Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning.

The awards, administered by the Department of Education of Education and Training, were presented at a ceremony held at Frasers in Kings Park.

Associate Professor Denese Playford was recognised for developing and leading innovative medical education programs using transformative learning experiences to inspire and prepare students to service rural and disadvantaged people.

Dr Bonnie Thomas was recognised for her sustained commitment to student learning through empathetic, caring and intuitive teaching that allows students to feel safe and supported in their learning of the French language.

Associate Professor Cosimo Faiello was recognised for influencing, motivating and inspiring postgraduate engineering students studying sustainable project management to make a long-lasting positive impact.

Federal Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said this year’s citations again highlighted the capacity of the Australian higher education sector to produce individuals and teams who collaborate, innovate, and inspire students.

“On many occasions recently I have made mention of the world-class higher education system that we have in Australia, and its key role in education as our third largest export industry,” Minister Birmingham said.

“I would like to congratulate all of those receiving citations this year and urge them to continue to inspire not only their students but fellow colleagues.”

A full list of award recipients is available at https://www.education.gov.au/australian-awards-university-teaching

Media references

Jess Reid (UWA Media and Public Relations Advisor)                              (+61 8) 6488 6876