Diversity champion honoured with prestigious law award

Christopher Pearce has been named Academic of the Year at the 2024 Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards. The prestigious accolade recognises Mr Pearce's exceptional contributions to legal education and his unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and innovation within the Australian legal sector.

The Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards is a pinnacle event in the legal industry, celebrating those who tirelessly work to ensure its success and growth. This year, several staff and student finalists were recognised, making the event particularly special for UNSW Law & Justice.

UNSW Law & Justice Dean Professor Andrew Lynch said Mr Pearce exemplifies the commitment to students that is central to the Faculty’s mission.

"Chris's dedication to diversity, innovative teaching methods, and unwavering support for students is universally admired by his UNSW colleagues and a source of pride for our Faculty. This award is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional contributions to legal education and the broader legal community."

Reflecting on his award, Mr Pearce said, "I appreciate the recognition this award represents, but what truly matters to me is the support and encouragement I have received from my colleagues and my students over the years. This award is a lovely reminder of the power of having others believe in you; this is especially true during those moments when you don't quite believe in yourself."

An unwavering dedication to his students

Multiple award nominations described Pearce as a dedicated educator who has made a tangible difference by promoting awareness and advocating for change. One nomination said: "Many students enter his class in Week 1 anxious, reluctant, or disinterested, but they all leave the last session empowered and transformed."

Pearce is known for his intellectual rigour, approachable demeanour, and unwavering dedication to his students. As a senior lecturer in complex private law subjects, he has transformed his classes into accessible and engaging learning experiences by adopting innovative teaching techniques and technologies. Official and unsolicited student feedback has shown that these efforts to cater to his diverse students' needs have significantly raised their motivation and performance.

In 2023, Pearce received the UNSW Vice-Chancellor's Award for embracing diversity. As a UNSW Diversity Champion and contributor to the UNSW Gateway program, he has consistently demonstrated remarkable support for international, disadvantaged, and LGBTQI+ students. See Christopher Pearce staff bio.

An evening of pride for UNSW Law & Justice

The 24th annual Australian Law Awards were announced at a black-tie gala that brought together the brightest minds in law. Five UNSW Law & Justice representatives were celebrated for their excellence as award finalists. Associate Professor Vicki Sentas and Michael Hung were considered for Academic of the Year, while Emily Calbert, Kyla Rivera, and Lina Zaioor shone brightly as finalists for Student of the Year.

Additionally, the Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS) was honoured as the 2024 Law Firm of the Year. UNSW Law & Justice is proudly affiliated with RACS, with motivated student interns and volunteers actively contributing to its mission. This award highlights the incredible impact RACS has made in providing essential legal support to individuals who have fled persecution, helping them find certainty and safety in Australia.

Across all award categories, the judging criteria are both quantitative and qualitative, focusing on growth, business development, diversity, leadership, innovation, business excellence, and contributions to Australia’s legal sector. The awards spotlight managing partners, general counsel, barristers, legal scholars, and rising stars, acknowledging their significant achievements. For more information, visit the Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards.