• Charles Sturt University congratulates Nicholas Steepe on his recognition as an Out Role Model by the Australian LGBTI Inclusion Awards
• The award recognises Mr Steepe’s contribution to building an environment of acceptance across the staff and student community
• Charles Sturt University celebrates its diversity and inclusion

Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) congratulates Nicholas Steepe alumnus and project manager (Equity and Diversity) on being named the 2019 Out Role Model at the Australian LGBTI Inclusion Awards. 

Charles Sturt Manager, Equity and Diversity Craig Hinley said the University was proud of Mr Steepe’s award highlighting 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. Nic’s mobilization of our Ally network is his greatest contribution to LGBTIQ inclusion in the workplace,” Mr Hinley said. 

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. 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,” Mr Steepe said. 

The Australian LGBTI Inclusion Awardscelebrates Australia’s top organisations for LGBTI Inclusion based on the results of the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) and recognises leaders, individuals and networks that have made a significant impact on LGBTI inclusion within their workplaces.

Mr Steepe, who is 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/or marginalised LGBTIQA+ young people aged 17-26.