Charles Sturt University Bathurst graduations

He is among almost 1000 students who will graduate from Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Bathurst camps in four separate ceremonies this Thursday and Friday.

Mr Dionigi is the first in his family to attend university, and says since he first attended CSU Bathurst in 1996 to complete his education degree he has never left.

CSU Bathurst is also where Mr Dionigi met his wife Rylee in 1996 when she was in her third year of an exercise science degree.

And now, in the lead-up to his fourth university graduation he admits he is nervous and excited.

“It’s the first time my kids [twins Giordano and Lorena, 11,] will see me graduate which is exciting,” he said.

During his graduation ceremony on Friday morning, Mr Dionigi will deliver the Vote of Thanks speech to the guest speaker on behalf of the university.

He will also be awarded the University Medal for his high achievements during his most recent degree.

During the two days of graduation ceremonies, 957 graduates from the Faculty of Arts and Education, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, and Faculty of Science will receive their awards.

Among the graduates will also be 20 people who receive their PhDs.

“More than 4500 people will converge on Charles Sturt University in Bathurst to celebrate this year's graduation ceremonies,” CSU head of campus Associate Professor Chika Anyanwu said.

“We pride ourselves on producing job-ready professionals who enter the workforce very insightful, making a positive impact, creating an inclusive society, and inspiring others.

“We congratulate our graduating professionals with their friends and families on the successful completion of their studies with us.”

During the graduation ceremonies, an honorary doctorate will be bestowed on long-time Bathurst resident and Aboriginal educator Laurence Crawford.

Wiradjuri woman Annette Gainsford, who is a lecturer in law and justice studies at CSU in Bathurst, will graduate with a Bachelor of Business (Honours) Class One.