Sarah McGoram

Sarah McGoram OAM

Bachelor of Education (2001)

Sarah McGoram OAM is an educator and an advocate for patients with rare cancers and diseases. Diagnosed with a rare cancer at 18, Sarah has channelled her lived experience into empowering others with rare conditions. She supports individual patients through their diagnosis, connecting them with appropriate supports, resources and funding, while ensuring they feel seen and valued. In her advocacy work, Sarah helps raise awareness of rare cancers and diseases, calling for greater research, more accessible treatments and better outcomes for patients with these conditions. In recognition of her advocacy and service, Sarah received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and was a 2026 ACT Finalist for Australian of the Year.

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About the award

This award celebrates an ACU graduate who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the wellbeing of others through community or humanitarian service, reflecting ACU’s mission and values in both action and spirit.

Eligibility:

  • Be a graduate of ACU or its predecessor institutions.
  • Have made a significant and demonstrable contribution to the enrichment and benefit of the community.
  • Have shown selflessness and resilience in responding to challenges facing individuals or communities.

Selection Criteria:

  • Impact on wellbeing: Evidence of initiatives or actions that have significantly improved the wellbeing of individuals or communities, locally or globally.
  • Community and humanitarian Service: Contributions that reflect a sustained commitment to serving others.
  • Selflessness and leadership: Demonstrated acts of courage, compassion, and leadership in addressing social or humanitarian challenges.
  • Sustainability and reach: Demonstrated long-term impact or influence beyond a single project or initiative.
  • Alignment with ACU mission: Ethical conduct, commitment to serving the common good, critical habit of mind, appreciation of the sacred in life.

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