Sharon Cooke

Sharon Cooke

Graduate Certificate in Education Research (2026), Master of Education (2010), Graduate Diploma in Education (Human Relations and Community Education) (2008), Bachelor of Teaching (1999), Associate Diploma Aboriginal Education (1998)

Sharon Cooke is a proud Aboriginal educator and nationally respected leader whose career has been dedicated to improving educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. With almost four decades of experience across schools, diocesan education and system leadership, she has championed culturally responsive education, strengthened partnerships with communities and helped shape Aboriginal education policy across New South Wales.

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About this award

This award celebrates an Indigenous ACU graduate who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in their profession and/or the community in ways that reflect ACU’s mission and commitment to the common good.

Eligibility:

  • Be a graduate of ACU or its predecessor institutions
  • Identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. Only nominees who have established Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status will be considered for this award.
  • Have made a significant and demonstrable contribution to their chosen field, Indigenous communities, or Australian society more broadly.

Selection Criteria:

  • Indigenous identity: Must be an Indigenous Australian (Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander).
  • Impact: Must demonstrate significant contribution to their profession and/or Indigenous communities and/or Australian society more broadly.
  • Professional excellence: Evidence of outstanding achievement, leadership, creativity, or innovation in their career or field.
  • 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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