Dean’s Award for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The impact of the GEMs Mentoring Program has been profound and multifaceted. Most directly, the mentorship afforded by the scheme equips the undergraduates with skills and support that help them thrive in what can be a challenging environment for women and the gender-diverse. Just as significantly, the program has created an inclusive and welcoming community that helps women and gender-diverse students feel at home within math. In 2023, the program had 12 mentees, and in 2024 this has increased to 14. Considering the extremely slanted gender ratios in higher-level math subjects; these are significant numbers.

Kai Robinson, Senior Technical Officer at the School of Chemistry, is nominated for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Award for his leadership in fostering Indigenous inclusion at Monash University. His work, notably through the Indigenous Stepping Stones Project and outreach efforts, has significantly contributed to reconciliation, cultural awareness, and Indigenous student representation in STEM.

Associate Professor Vanessa Wong has chaired the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
committee in the School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment (EAE) since 2020, and she is well respected Change Leader within the Faculty of Science and beyond. She has significantly contributed to improving the workplace environment and to promoting equity and inclusion in the School and in the Faculty of Science through a wide range of initiatives.

Vanessa has also actively advocated for the inclusion of women and culturally and
racially marginalised (CARM) people within the School. She has done this by: publishing to a wider STEM audience on issues related to gender equity and racial diversity; reinvigorating the Women of EAE network and mentoring scheme; and authoring best practice guides on increasing diversity in awards and prizes.

As a first-year student, Flynn has already demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within the Faculty of Science, particularly in raising awareness around disabilities and championing disability pride. Flynn's approach is characterised by empathy, openness, and a willingness to share personal experiences. This not only educates peers and staff, but also creates a more supportive and understanding environment for all. His influence is visible in a more open dialogue about diversity and inclusion within Global Challenges.