Nine outstanding students were recently recognised for their excellent achievements and contributions to their school communities at the 2023 Bishop's Student Excellence Awards.

The awards are an opportunity to acknowledge one Year 12 student from each Catholic systemic secondary schools in the diocese, as nominated by their principal, who promote Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW’s) core values of integrity, compassion, justice and hope.  

CEDoW's Head of Learning, John Lo Cascio, said the awards are presented to students who embody true dedication to the vision of Catholic education and Gospel values. 

“These young people have lived our mission to ensure all members of our communities in the words of St John, 'have life and have it in abundance,' he said. "In their own spheres of influence, they have made significant contributions to the vibrancy of their Catholic school communities in an exemplary manner.” 

In the presence of proud family members, recipients were individually acknowledged for their active participation in school life and were presented with an award and two books: "Pope Francis' Little Book of Wisdom: The Essential Teachings" and "A Gift of Joy and Hope" by Most Rev Bishop Brian Mascord DD and CEDoW Director of Schools, Peter Hill, who expressed the value of sharing a hope inspired by faith. 

“As this significant chapter of your life comes to a close and you look to the future, I encourage you to keep your hope alive,” he said. “I know that you will take the virtues, values, attitudes and skills of your Catholic education, and—as bearers of Christ’s love—continue to light the way for the people around you.”

AWARD RECIPIENTS

The recipients of the 2023 Bishop's Student Excellence Awards are:

We acknowledge and thank the Catholic Development Fund for the ongoing support of these significant student awards.