Distinguished recognition for outstanding alumni

The University of Adelaide celebrated nine members of its alumni community at the annual Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Award recipients, which this year included Australia’s most successful Paralympian, a leading space engineer, a visionary disability rights lawyer, were recognised for their significant contributions to their professions and the wider community. Working across diverse fields, they share a dedication to creating positive change.

In addition to these awards, a previous Distinguished Alumni Award recipient was recognised as an Honorary University Fellow – a title rarely bestowed and singular in nature.

Five alumni were presented with Alumni Fellow Awards by Professor Jessica Gallagher, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement), in recognition of their momentous contributions to advancing the University of Adelaide’s Alumni Relations program. 

The Distinguished Alumni Awards were presented across five categories by the Honourable Catherine Branson AC SC, Chancellor, and Professor Peter Høj AC, Vice-Chancellor and President.

Distinguished Alumni Award recipients, for outstanding and sustained contributions:

Dr Sarah Cannard is a leading Australian aerospace engineer who has made pioneering contributions in defence and space. As Lead Systems Engineer at AROSE, Dr Cannard has played a pivotal role in the design of Australia’s first lunar rover, Roo-ver. She is a passionate advocate for STEM education and gender equity and inspires future innovators through visionary leadership and international collaboration.

David Lewis OAM is a globally respected leader in international development who has spent five decades working to alleviate poverty and advocate for those living with disability. From community-based programs in Africa to shaping Australia’s disability-inclusive aid strategy, his compassionate leadership has transformed global health, informed inclusive aid, and helped to change lives.

Dr Samantha Pillay OAM is a trailblazing urological surgeon, author, entrepreneur, and filmmaker committed to advancing healthcare, gender equity, and community empowerment. Founder of Continence Matters, she has broken taboos around bladder health and delivered global education, earning well-deserved recognition for her leadership, advocacy, and medical innovation.

Dr Geoffrey Thompson AM is a pioneer in sports and exercise medicine, who has been dedicated to advancing healthcare in the Northern Territory for five decades. From leading medical operations during Cyclone Tracy to delivering care in remote First Nations communities, his innovative and compassionate leadership has helped shape rural and Indigenous healthcare.

James McWha Rising Star Award recipients, for those making a significant contribution as emerging leaders:

Dr Erandi Hewawasam is a nationally recognised researcher transforming maternal and renal health through pioneering data innovation. Only seven years after earning her PhD, Dr Hewawasam has already led major national studies, advanced clinical guidelines, and developed groundbreaking health data platforms, driving equity, policy impact, and improved outcomes for women with chronic kidney disease.

Natalie Wade is a nationally acclaimed human rights lawyer and disability rights advocate working to improve Australia’s legal and policy systems. Founder of Equality Lawyers and Associate Commissioner of the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, she leads with vision and lived experience to advance disability rights and champion equitable leadership.

Tirkapena Indigenous Award recipient, for positive outcomes in Indigenous communities:

Dr Jessica Manuela is a proud Palawa and Niuean dental surgeon and a nationally acclaimed advocate for oral health equity. Founder of Dental South, Director of the Indigenous Dental Association of Australia, and 2018 Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year, she tirelessly champions culturally safe healthcare and systemic change.

Outstanding Alumni Contribution to Sport Award recipient, for outstanding and sustained contribution to sporting communities:

Matthew Cowdrey OAM is Australia’s most decorated paralympian and a leader in disability advocacy and public service. With 23 paralympic medals and a distinguished State parliamentary career, his success and passion continue to inspire future generations in sport whilst championing inclusion, accessibility, and community empowerment.

Distinguished International Alumni Award recipient, for international graduates who excel in their chosen field:

Dr Eilly Lau is a renowned paediatric dental surgeon whose four-decade career has advanced oral healthcare for children with disabilities and improved healthcare access in underserved communities. Founder of Happy Dental Outreach, she is dedicated to exceptional clinical leadership, caring humanitarian service, and creating global impact through inclusive health advocacy.

Honorary University Fellow:

Keith Conlon – “Mr South Australia” – has shaped the State’s media, heritage, and community life for more than six decades. From pioneering 5UV radio to hosting Postcards SA, his leadership, philanthropy, and storytelling have inspired generations. Honoured nationally, he remains a passionate advocate for history, culture, and South Australia’s spirit.

2025 Alumni Fellows:

As President Julian Audras led the University’s Young Alumni Network Committee through pandemic disruptions. He was subsequently appointed to the Alumni Council in 2023 and now serves on the Adelaide University Alumni Transition Advisory Group. His expertise in governance, project management, and stakeholder engagement has helped foster meaningful outcomes for alumni, particularly early-career graduates.

Her Honour Judge Emily Telfer has made a transformative contribution through her leadership of the John Bray Alumni Network. As President, she expanded the Network’s reach, strengthened its financial base, and championed key initiatives including the Law Alumni Network Prize, a $15,000 scholarship, and the inaugural John Bray Medal, and a student mentoring program. Her service reflects innovation, generosity, and a deep commitment to nurturing alumni and the future of the legal profession.

John Hancock AM has shown decades-long commitment to the University’s Alumni Relations program. He served on the Alumni Council (2010–2017) and founded the University’s Alumni Network in Thailand, where he continues as Honorary Advisor to the committee. His numerous accolades reflect his exceptional leadership and dedication to fostering relationships between Australia and Thailand, which has elevated the University’s international presence.

Dr Rachel Spencer has been President of the Friends of the Library since 2022, and has revitalised the committee, expanded alumni engagement, and led successful fundraising initiatives. Rachel’s advocacy has forged partnerships across the galleries, libraries, archives and museums sector and supported student mentoring, resulting in high attendance for network events. Dr Spencer is also a valued member on the Adelaide University Alumni Transition Advisory Group.

Elyce Pate played a key role in launching the Adelaide Nursing School Alumni Network in 2022 and has been President since 2023, driving its growth and impact and championing initiatives to support graduates’ wellbeing and professional development. Elyce has fostered strong connections across academia, industry, and global alumni, and expanded engagement, mentoring, and networking opportunities for nursing graduates.