Avondale University celebrated its largest graduation since 2021 on Sunday, December 8, with 259 students eligible to march in the ceremonies. The graduates represent a diverse range of fields, including nursing, education, counselling and individual support.
Among the graduates was Asa Newton, who overcame significant challenges, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and dyspraxia, to achieve his Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) degree. Asa described his experience as “surreal” and credited Avondale with helping him fulfil his dream of becoming a teacher. “Getting here, receiving the support I needed and becoming what I’ve always wanted to be—a teacher—gives me hope that anyone can succeed.”
The graduation ceremonies included the first cohort from the new Master of Counselling degree and Certificate III in Individual Support. Six students earned Doctor of Philosophy degrees, and more than one-third of the graduating class consisted of undergraduate nursing students. Avondale’s nursing course recently earned the top ranking in Australia for overall educational experience, according to the 2025 Good Universities Guide.
Two graduates, Zoe Cochrane and Tamsyn Shofay, received the University Medal. The medal recognises undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students who earn not only a high grade point average but the highest in their school. As Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary) and a Master of Teaching (Primary) students, both are from the School of Education and Science. And both are recipients of academic prizes—with the Adventist Media Digital Media and Journalism Prize and the Ministry of Teaching (Secondary) Prize, Ms Cochrane is a recipient of multiple prizes.
Students identified as high or consistent achievers received prizes during the presentation of their testamurs. Graduation class co-president Megan Wilson is Lake Macquarie campus recipient of the Avondale Prize For Excellence; Sue Martin is the Sydney campus recipient.
The graduation class adopted the motto Sent with a Purpose, inspired by Matthew 28:18–20. Co-president Megan Wilson described it as a reminder of their mission to make a positive impact. “We don’t have to face uncertainties alone as Jesus promises, ‘I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”
In his address, vice-chancellor and president Professor Malcolm Coulson encouraged graduates to remain steadfast in their faith and purpose. “Stay true to the calling that God has placed on your life,” adding, “Stay grounded in your faith.”
