La Trobe celebrates historic record graduation numbers

MORE than six hundred undergraduate and four PhD students from La Trobe University Bendigo were awarded their qualifications during ceremonies at Ulumbarra Theatre last week, along the way making history as the largest cohort of graduates ever.

Not surprisingly, health comprised the largest group of graduates this year at nearly 75 per cent, boosted by the university’s $43 million local investment in new clinical teaching facilities for allied health, dentistry, midwifery and nursing.

La Trobe vice-chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said graduates would play an exciting role in strengthening the workforce and livelihoods of their communities.

“La Trobe has a vital role to play in generating the skilled workforce needed to increase productivity for economies and communities to thrive in regional Victoria and beyond,” Professor Farrell said.

“I congratulate the students graduating from our Bendigo campus this week and look forward to following their future success.”

On Tuesday evening, the university also acknowledged the achievements of its top students through 76 awards.

Marg O’Rourke, Bendigo head of campus, said the prizes and scholarships ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate highly motivated students and recognise the contributions of staff and community.

“This event is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our teaching and academic staff as well as our donors, who are deeply invested in the success of our students,” she said.

“These prizes are not just awards, they are a celebration of our top students studying in Bendigo – now a vibrant university city – who will make significant impacts both here and beyond.”