ALUMNI Awards

In honour of our Remarkable Women

Caroline Amy Alumni Award

This pinnacle Alumni award recipient exemplifies continuous and significant contributions in professional, community, cultural, sporting or leadership achievement. They inspire and uplift those around them through their lifelong pursuits.

Named in honour of Caroline Amy Balguy (1833 – 1915) – Known as Sister Caroline Amy and later Mother Caroline; Caroline Amy Balguy started her religious life at the Community of St John Baptist in Clewer, England. She came to Australia in 1892 and founded The Society of the Sacred Advent, focusing on ministering to the needs of women and children. Under her guidance the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent established several schools and children’s homes throughout Queensland.

Mother Emma Alumni Award

Established in 2019, in celebration of St Aidan’s 90-year history, the Mother Emma Award celebrates achievement in the areas of entrepreneurship and innovation. The award recipient demonstrates game changing and trail blazing endeavours across community or professional life. They may have pursued an alternative study or experience pathways to create their mark on the world.

Named in honour of Mother Emma (1864 – 1939) – Born in 1859 in England, Mother Emma (born Emma Crawford) travelled to Australia and was admitted to the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent in 1886. She became Sister in Charge of Eton High School (later known as St Margaret’s). Mother Emma led the Sisters for 33 years, during the difficult social times of the First World War and the Great Depression.

Emma Betts Alumni Award

Recognises young alumni (30 years or younger at the time of nomination) whose professional or volunteer accomplishments demonstrate a significant positive impact – locally, nationally or internationally. As an inspirational role model, they have raised their profile and standing within the community to create positive impact in their field.

Named in honour of Emma Betts (1991 – 2017) – Emma Betts’ life was defined by a desire to help others. She worked internationally in the rehabilitation of people with physical disabilities and volunteered in youth-run aid and development organisations. Following her melanoma diagnosis she was a dedicated cancer awareness campaigner.