The Sydney Prize is a renowned award bestowed upon those who have made an impactful contribution to society, from writing to activism and everything in between. There is one given nationwide while others at state levels; both awards can serve to build confidence and give a sense of achievement to recipients.
Yeena Kirkbright of Camperdown Grief Junk won the 2022 Neilma Sydney Short Story Prize with her piece Camperdown Grief Junk, to be published both online and in Overland magazine. Yeena was chosen as winner by judges Laura Elvery, Paige Clark and Michael Winkler who supported this year’s prize through City of Sydney support: Lord Mayor Clover Moore said of Nazanin Boniadi: “This prize recognizes her tireless effort in turning outrage into action”.
Established to honor an American philosopher and Phi Beta Kappa member, the SS Sydney Hook Memorial Award honors distinguished scholars for their scholarship, undergraduate teaching and leadership supporting liberal education principles. Each year at Phi Beta Kappa Society’s Triennial Council Meeting this award is given out to one graduate of a US college or university who has accomplished national distinction in their field.
This year’s Chemistry Nobel Prize went to scientists Sidney Altman and Thomas Cech for their groundbreaking discovery that RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules in living cells not only function as heredity molecules but can also act as biocatalysts, revolutionizing how scientists view how living cells operate. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized scientific understanding of living cell processes.
Winners of the Sydney Prize will receive a scholarship that can be put towards further studies or towards starting their own business. This can be invaluable assistance in getting into college or finding employment; The Sydney Prize offers an exceptional opportunity to gain great education while making an impactful difference to society at large.
Apart from scholarships, there is also the Sydney Prize awarded to women studying engineering. This prize serves to encourage more women into engineering fields and make an impactful career of it; further promoting equality for all in the workplace.
Since 1950, the Sydney Prize has been presented annually to journalists, writers and public figures who pursue journalism and public policy for the greater good. Nominations open March and close April with nominees presented to faculty during their undergraduate faculty meeting in April; then voting by secret ballot is done to select one senior. Eventually this individual is honored during a baccalaureate ceremony as the recipient. This prize is funded through donations from alumni and friends of the college.