This week, we proudly hosted the highly anticipated Annual Tuckwell Academic Dinner, bringing together ANU academics, Tuckwell Scholars, staff, and distinguished guests for an evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration.
The evening was masterfully emceed by 2022 Scholar Jordan King, now in his final semester. Jordan charmed the audience with his sharp wit and perfectly timed humour, setting the tone for a memorable night.
Jordan is currently completing a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours), majoring in Earth Science, with a minor in Chemistry and a specialisation in Climate Science.
Each year, the dinner grows in scale and spirit. This year saw the highest number of ANU academics in attendance and over 200 guests filling the National Museum—despite the spring rain!
Traditionally, the evening features a Scholar’s speech. This year, we embraced a new format, spotlighting four Tuckwell Scholars who have championed the ANU Women in STEM Leadership Conference over its five-year journey. Marissa Ellis (2020), Mariane Johnstone (2021), Zoe Crooke (2021), and Hannah Wang (2024) shared the evolution of the conference—from its 2021 inception to the vibrant, inclusive community it is today.
The audience enjoyed their personal reflections, highlighting the dynamic roles they’ve played—attendees, coordinators, finance leads, and co-directors—each wearing many hats and contributing to a legacy of empowerment and collaboration. Their stories underscored the deep connections and friendships they’ve built and the significant impact of shared leadership.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Andrew Meares—award-winning photojournalist, educator, skier, and ANU cybernetics research lead.
Andrew is a Walkley award-winning photojournalist working at The Sydney Morning Herald for almost three decades (1991-2017). His industry research activities have involved the creation, curation, and circulation of images and spanned the transition from the darkroom to digital and from print to social media. He has covered politics, protests and portraits, bushfires, coups and war zones. Since joining the ANU in 2019, Andrew has contributed as a Master course convenor, Master program convenor, Education Experience lead, and Design lead.
Andrew leads cybernetic research and education experiences in cybernetic futures, the Cybernetic Imagination residency program, and is a co-investigator of an ongoing research project on Australia’s first digital system, the Overland Telegraph Line.
Andrew captivated the audience with a selection of his powerful, award-winning images—each capturing pivotal moments in modern history. His keynote, themed “Chasing Change and Finding Hope,” blended personal anecdotes with reflections on resilience, transformation, and a deep connection to country.
Now in its 11th year, the Tuckwell Scholarship Program continues to thrive, and the Academic Dinner remains one of its most cherished traditions. This formal evening of thought-provoking dialogue and reflection is a true highlight of the Tuckwell experience.
A heartfelt thank you to all who braved the spring rain and joined us at the National Museum. Your presence helped make this another unforgettable evening for the ANU Tuckwell community.
