Transforming communities: 2026 UQ Alumni Award winners

16 October 2026

The annual University of Queensland Alumni Awards recognise outstanding UQ alumni making significant contributions to their communities.

This year, 18 alumni from UQ’s global community of 370,000 (including 6 from the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences) were honoured at an awards ceremony on 15 October for their extraordinary achievements across a wide range of fields.

These inspiring alumni are driving change through entrepreneurship, advocacy, governance, creativity and community leadership; shaping industries and communities in remarkable ways and sharing UQ’s commitment to creating a better future. 

Vice-Chancellor's Alumni Excellence Awards

Peta Bistany (Bachelor of Human Movement Studies 1990; Bachelor of Arts 1991), for influential leadership in global sport, strengthening governance, strategy and community impact at the highest levels. 

Peta Bistany
Peta Bistany.

Howard Stack (Bachelor of Arts 1966; Bachelor of Laws 1968), for outstanding leadership in law, corporate governance and education, delivering lasting impact across industry and the community.

Howard Stack.
Howard Stack.

Dr Joseph Twist (Doctor of Philosophy 2010; Bachelor of Music (Honours) 2003), for internationally recognised contributions to music across screen and stage, combining creative excellence with meaningful cultural impact.

Dr Joseph Twist.
Dr Joseph Twist.
Indigenous Community Impact Award

Dr Stephen Corporal (Bachelor of Social Work 2003; Bachelor of Arts 2003), for transformative leadership advancing Indigenous health, education and self-determination through impactful programs, governance and national advocacy.

Dr Stephen Corporal.
Dr Stephen Corporal.
Distinguished Young Alumni Awards

Ashley Hanger (Bachelor of Journalism 2015; Bachelor of Communication 2015), for entrepreneurial leadership in improving diabetes care, expanding access to essential supplies and education and building a high-impact, clinician-supported community for Australians impacted by diabetes.

Ashley Hanger.
Ashley Hanger.

Sita Sargeant (Bachelor of Arts (Honours) 2021; Bachelor of Arts 2020), for elevating women's histories, creating a nationally recognised platform that advances gender equity and reshapes public understanding at scale.

Sita Sargeant.
Sita Sargeant.

Read the full biographies for all award recipients.

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