News and events 2024 King’s Birthday Honours celebrating JCU Community achievements

Tue, 11 Jun 2024
Categories: Students, International.

Sarina Russo at the JCU Brisbane opening (2006) with Hon Peter Beattie

Congratulations to the James Cook University (JCU) staff and alumni who have been recognised in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list, especially Sarina Russo who holds an honorary Doctor of Commerce from JCU.

From humble beginnings as a migrant, failing high school English and unable to keep a job herself, Sarina started her own business with just $2600 giving the commitment to her students she would get them a job.

From that starting point, she has helped hundreds of thousands of individuals and students to obtain vocational, trade and tertiary qualifications, establish a career or start their own business.

Her original promise to make “the Impossible Possible” has led to Sarina helping people create a future for themselves, their families and communities.

Over her 45 years in business, Sarina has supported over 113,000 students from 88 countries gain English skills and competitive tertiary level qualifications, well over 250,000 individuals to find employment, complete a trade and gain financial independence and create more than 16,000 new entrepreneurs.

Sarina has demonstrated not only her commitment to helping others but also the power and benefits having a job, building self-confidence and being a role model to the next generation.

Sarina’s and her fellow honourees’ achievements reflect the university's commitment to excellence and its dedication to fostering a supportive and empowering educational environment.

To view list of JCU Community honourees, click here.

To access the full King's Birthday 2024 Honours List, click here.