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Accomplished business leader proves a CDU qualification can "take you to the very top"

Charles Darwin University

For more than four decades Connie Jape has been a respected force in Northern Territory commerce, and her commitment to business and the community was recognised with the highest honour at Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) 2026 Alumni Awards Gala.

The Gala, held on October 23, acknowledged the achievements of outstanding alumni who have become trailblazers and leaders in their careers and communities since graduating from CDU.

Ms Jape, the executive director of the Jape Group of Companies, was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for her civic advocacy, entrepreneurship and business career of more than 45 years.

In 2004, Ms Jape graduated from CDU with a Diploma of Business (Marketing), and said her time with the University gave her valuable insight and connectivity to business in the NT.

“Attending CDU, a university deeply connected to the distinct economic and cultural landscape of the Territory has played a pivotal role in the work I do today,” Ms Jape said.

“I’ve come a long way since graduation and I want to thank CDU for making sure these opportunities were open to me. I hope my story proves that a qualification from CDU can take you to the very top of your chosen field."

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson congratulated Ms Jape and her fellow winners and nominees.

"These alumni are exceptional representatives of this University, and we are immensely proud of their achievements," Professor Coulson said. 

"When a student joins CDU, they trust us to educate, support them and build foundations that will help guide their lives and careers. It's a great privilege for us to be part of their journeys."

The First Nations Alumni Award went to Samantha Alexander, a Darug woman and Bachelor of Laws alumna who made history as Australia’s first blind Aboriginal lawyer. 

Special Commendation was given to Aboriginal advocate and educator Holly Supple-Gurruwiwi, who graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 2019.

Award-winning CDU apprentice Beckie Kernich received the Alumni Award for Industry Excellence and was named Alumni of the Year. 

Special Commendation for Industry Excellence was given to Master of Nursing alumna Jenny Santhosh.

Senior Lecturer in Accounting Dr Raul David, who graduated with a PhD from CDU this year, was recognised with the International Alumni Award. Health researcher Archana Shapkota received Special Commendation.

The Alumni Award for Community Service was given to Dr Faisal Badar, who completed a PhD in Education Technology from CDU in 2025. Special Commendation was given to social entrepreneur Gary Strachan.

Dr Sarah Cassidy-Seyoum was recognised with the Alumni Award for Early Achievement, with Special Commendation given to Dr Mohammad Rajib Hasan. Both graduated from CDU with PhDs in 2025.

Contact details:

Georgia Campbell she/her
Communications Officer
 
Marketing, Media & Communications
Larrakia Country
E: georgia[email protected]
W: cdu.edu.au