The lengthy contribution of a Wiradjuri Elder to strengthen Indigenous higher education by empowering students will be recognised with a national award at a ceremony in Melbourne today Wednesday 24 June.

Wiradjuri woman, Aunty Gail Clark was the Elder-in-Residence at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Wagga Wagga when nominated for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Higher Education Advisory Council's Elders and Leaders Award.

In congratulating Aunty Gail for winning the Elders and Leaders Award, Head of Campus at CSU in Wagga Wagga, Ms Miriam Dayhew said, "Aunty Gail has provided an anchor for those Indigenous students who are away from home and country.

"She fosters a sense of belonging for all our staff and students and seeks to improve the quality of learning and teaching for the University community.

"She has been able to extend her pastoral care to our international students who are similarly away from their home and country. She has been able to engage with students studying in Australia through AusAid and the New Colombo Plan."

 "Aunty Gail has raised the aspirations of our students and prospective students. She is a perfect role model of what learning and study can achieve for students."

Aunty Gail completed her own school education at the age of 42. She then received a number of certificates and a diploma from TAFE NSW Riverina Institute. While aged in her fifties, Aunty Gail was awarded a Bachelor of Education in Adult Education and then a Master of Arts in Indigenous Social Policy from the University of Technology Sydney.

CSU's School Outreach Officer, Ms Carlie Gemmell nominated Aunty Gail for the Elders Award in 2014.

 "I work within the Charles Sturt University Future Moves program, which aims to inspire school students to attend university. Aunty Gail has been a significant part of the program," Ms Gemmell said.

"She welcomes the school students when they come on campus as well as being an excellent role model offering advice and information to help the students make decisions regarding their further study aspirations.

"I have often heard Indigenous students describe Aunty Gail as their rock and a link to home while studying. She has taken all students under her wing and makes all students, staff and visiting younger school students feel comfortable and welcome."

Aunty Gail will receive the Elders and Leaders Award during a ceremony from 7pm Wednesday 24 June at Rydges Melbourne Hotel.