Glenray Commitment Scholarship 2026
Glenray along with Charles Sturt University (CSU) are excited to announce the 2026 recipient of the ‘Glenray Commitment Scholarship’ is Alex Vardanega.
Alex is a first-year physiotherapy student, studying at Charles Sturt University’s Orange campus. A passionate volunteer, Alex contributes in many ways to his local community, including as a trainer for both the Orange Warriors and Manildra Rhinos. This volunteer work includes injury management, on field first aid and supporting player wellbeing on and off the field.
After receiving an Aspergers (Autism Spectrum Disorder) diagnosis in his childhood, Alex has faced certain challenges around social interaction, communication and managing high cognitive workloads. These challenges transferred into adulthood, where he has learned how to balance full time study and work through the development of routines and organisational strategies.
“I believe everyone deserves to be educated if they want to and that they should have the ability to do so. Studying is different for everyone, and it is how you adapt to those changes that matter, so you can achieve what you want.”
Alex hopes that this scholarship will assist in relieving some of the financial pressure and grant him the ability to invest more time into his study, placements and skill development. “I was excited when I got the news that I had been chosen for the scholarship. The funds will assist me with preparing for placement, with lost wages and all the preparation that is required before I can go.” Once he has completed his undergraduate studies, Alex aims to pursue his Masters with the future goal of one day owning his own professional practice.
Since launching in 2022, the Glenray Commitment Scholarship has helped students living with disability access tertiary education by easing some of the additional costs that can accompany university study. To date, Glenray has committed approximately $37,500 to support students from a variety of academic disciplines as they work towards their future careers.
Glenray Chief Executive Officer, Scott Green said “Glenray is proud to manage a scholarship program that removes financial barriers and empowers future leaders to achieve their goals. We know that the financial pressures of tertiary education can be amplified for students navigating a disability. It is incredibly inspiring to see individuals such as Alex navigate these challenges whilst still giving back to their communities.”
Glenray congratulates Alex on receiving the 2026 Glenray Commitment Scholarship and wishes him every success as he continues his studies and works towards his future career goals.
