FIFTY-SEVEN students from the Port Macquarie-Hastings region will receive financial support through the Charles Sturt Foundation Trust this year.
The total value of the scholarships is $335,926.
The amount is part of the $3m awarded to students across all six CSU campuses.
Recipients in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region were the first to be presented with their scholarships at an official ceremony on Tuesday 13 May.
Acting Director of Advancement at Charles Sturt University Ms Carly Evans said the scholarships were due to the generosity of local communities, businesses, and alumni.
“The support of these groups allows us to meet students where they are – with scholarships that reflect the diversity of experiences and aspirations across regional Australia,” she said.
“Many of our students juggle study with part-time work, travel from remote areas, or manage family responsibilities. “Scholarships can be the difference between continuing their course or stepping away from their career aspirations.
Ms Evans said it was Charles Sturt’s regional focus which gave it a unique advantage over other educational institutions, and the scholarship ceremonies were a way to celebrate the students.
“These are not just formalities; they are powerful reminders that regional communities and passionate supporters believe in the potential of their young people and are keen to invest in their future.
“This year, we’ve seen support reach students from all walks of life – First Nations students, carers, mature-age learners, those facing financial hardship, and those pursuing research that will directly benefit rural communities.
“The range of scholarships reflects the diversity of our student body.”
“We’ve seen recipients go on to become healthcare workers in remote towns, teachers in their local communities, and changemakers in their fields.
“That’s the power of regional giving – its ripple effects are real and lasting.”
Scholarships are open to domestic and international students studying any course at the university.
More information can be found on the university’s website.
To support a Charles Sturt student, contact the Charles Sturt Advancement office.
