La Trobe's COVID cohort graduate

It’s set to be an extra special celebration for La Trobe University’s Class of 2021, who have overcome unique circumstances to achieve the milestone of graduation.

The University will welcome graduating students and their families to the La Trobe Bundoora campus in Melbourne for a series of 83 ceremonies from Monday December 13 to Tuesday December 21.

La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Dewar AO said that the graduands had shown incredible resilience and dedication, and their hard work deserved to be celebrated on the big stage.

“We’re extremely proud of our 2021 cohort. We recognise that the last two years have been a challenge in many ways and these students have demonstrated that you really can achieve anything if you are passionate about it,” Professor Dewar said.

“I have no doubt that our graduates will go on to do remarkable things in their respective fields, and I’m looking forward to celebrating their success together.”

Professor Dewar thanked academic staff for their hard work and dedication to teaching during such a challenging time, and to professional staff for coordinating the graduation celebrations in a COVID-safe way.

Among the 8,000 students receiving their degrees is Hannah Gandy, graduating from La Trobe with a Bachelor of Law/Bachelor of Arts. As the first student to achieve a VCE from The Pavilion School, Hannah has overcome disadvantage in pursuit of her education.

Hannah recently received the prestigious John Monash Scholarship which enables her to pursue a Master of Laws specialising in Law and Social Justice at University College London in 2022.

Hannah plans to dedicate her career advocating for young people and providing access to highquality legal support, representation, and guidance.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at La Trobe. The opportunities that have been afforded to me have opened so many doors for my future career. I have been championed and supported, and I leave with many fond memories - feeling equipped and ready to tackle my next chapter of study in England,” Ms Gandy said.

La Trobe University will be graduating 173 PhD students and awarding Professor Simon Crowe a Professor Emeritus title for his lasting contributions to the University and the field of neuroscience.

In addition, La Trobe will be awarding six David Myers Medals to impressive students across the campus.

To ensure the celebrations are safe and inclusive, everyone attending must be fully vaccinated and comply with COVID health and safety requirements.

Media Officer: Madeline Walker, 0487 448 734, madeline.walker@latrobe.edu.au