Celebrating professional excellence across the Faculty of IT: Dean’s Awards for Exceptional Performance by Professional Staff
The Monash University Faculty of Information Technology’s 2026 Dean’s Awards for Exceptional Performance by Professional Staff recognise outstanding service, leadership and achievement across the Faculty.
Across three award categories, this year’s recipients have strengthened industry engagement, supported graduate research and improved the experience of students and staff through thoughtful, collaborative and high-quality work.
Dean’s Excellence Award
Recognising outstanding achievement that goes above and beyond expectations.
Work Integrated Learning Team
Jacqueline Burchell, Hilary Leung and Anthony Passarin have helped strengthen and expand Work Integrated Learning opportunities for IT students, creating more flexible pathways to industry experience while building strong relationships with employers.
The team also welcomed 14 new industry partners and helped shape a new internship management platform designed to improve placement experiences at scale.
Leader of the Year
Recognising outstanding leadership that supports people and delivers meaningful outcomes.
Tracy Ozcagli
Graduate Research Manager Tracy Ozcagli has provided strong leadership across the Faculty’s graduate research portfolio, supporting staff and students while helping guide significant change and improvement.
Her contribution has strengthened graduate research processes, industry connections and the support available to researchers across the Faculty.
Service Excellence Award
Recognising outstanding service that creates a positive and supportive experience for students and staff.
Mel Witbooi
Departments and Operations Manager Mel Witbooi has been recognised for her responsive, practical and people-focused approach to supporting Faculty operations.
Her work has helped simplify processes, reduce administrative burden and ensure staff and students receive clear, considered support when navigating complex requirements.