Charles Sturt University has congratulated former Dubbo resident Nicholas Steepe on his recent achievement, being named the 2019 Out Role Model at the Australian LGBT Inclusion Awards.
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Mr Steepe was previously president of the Central West Rainbow Alliance based in Dubbo and gained widespread respect in the community as an LGBT advocate.
Mr Steepe said he was honoured to be nominated for the award.
"Words can't explain how ecstatic and honoured I feel to be nominated, let alone win the award," Mr Steepe said.
"I'm proud of who I am, and I'm so thankful to be involved with organisations like Charles Sturt University and the Pinnacle Foundation that celebrate and validate my whole identity."
Charles Sturt Manager, Equity and Diversity Craig Hinley said the University was proud of Mr Steepe's award which highlights his dedication to creating an environment of acceptance across the staff and student community.
"Charles Sturt University is driven by its values, focused on being insightful, inclusive, impactful and inspiring. Nic lives these values both on and off campus," Mr Hinley said.
"Nic's mobilisation of our Ally network is his greatest contribution to LGBTIQ inclusion in the workplace."
The Australian LGBTI Inclusion Awards celebrates Australia's top organisations for LGBTI Inclusion based on the results of the Australian Workplace Equality Index and recognises leaders, individuals and networks that have made a significant impact on LGBTI inclusion within their workplaces.
Mr Steepe, who is now based at Charles Sturt in Bathurst, is also heavily involved in community groups including the Central West Rainbow Alliance, an organisation responsible for the Central West Pride March, promoting inclusion and support for regional and rural LGBTIQA+ individuals. Mr Steepe sits on the Pinnacle Foundation Management Committee as the Scholar Manager, a charity that provides scholarships and mentorships to disadvantaged and marginalised LGBTIQA+ young people aged 17-26.
I'm proud of who I am, and I'm so thankful to be involved with organisations like Charles Sturt University and the Pinnacle Foundation that celebrate and validate my whole identity.
- Nicholas Steepe