Celebrating the Next Generation of Health Leaders at Western Sydney University
On Tuesday, 10 June, the Parramatta South campus came alive with pride, inspiration, and achievement as Western Sydney University hosted the School of Health Sciences graduation ceremony. The event honoured the accomplishments of more than 200 graduates, cheered on by over 600 of their families and friends.
An Inspiring Address
A highlight of the evening was the Occasional Address, delivered to the graduating class by David Burns who shared a deeply personal and motivating story. Seventeen years ago, David arrived in Australia with little more than a backpack and hope. His journey, shaped by personal loss, resilience, and an unwavering desire to build something meaningful, has come full circle, leading to this proud moment of speaking to the next generation of health professionals.
Reflecting on his own path, David reminded graduates that:
“Your greatest challenges can become your greatest gifts.”
David spoke about the transformative power of life’s hardships, whether it’s caring for loved ones, moving countries, or facing setbacks, and how such experiences cultivate empathy, resilience, and purpose.
The address also underscored the critical importance of viewing health not as a privilege, but as a human right, and called on graduates to carry values of equity, inclusion, and humanity into the systems they will soon shape or lead.
As these new graduates step into their professional journeys, whether in hospitals, clinics, schools, community programs, or research, they carry not only their academic achievements but also the responsibility of creating healthier, fairer communities.
The ceremony recognised a wide range of academic milestones, from Doctor of Philosophy to Masters and Bachelors degrees across diverse disciplines, including:
Master of Health Science (Health Services Management)
Master of Health Science (Occupational Health and Safety)
Master of Public Health
Bachelor of Health and Physical Education
Bachelor of Health Science
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Science)
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Sciences)
Bachelor of Health Science (Health and Physical Education)
Bachelor of Health Science (Health Promotion)
Bachelor of Health Science (Health Services Management)
Bachelor of Health Science (Public Health)
Bachelor of Health Science (Recreational Therapy)
Bachelor of Health Science (Sport and Exercise Science)
Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Congratulations to the Western Sydney University School of Health Sciences Class of 2025. May your careers be filled with purpose, compassion, and impact. 👏