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Outstanding contribution earns national award
Dr Sarah Fraser, Senior Academic in NMIT’s Social Work team, has been recognised for her contribution to social work education, research and knowledge development.
Sarah won the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers (ANZASW) Social Work Research and Education Award at the 2026 ANZASW Social Work Awards. The award celebrates people who are building the knowledge, evidence and future capability of the social work profession in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Sarah’s award recognises her leadership in the development and ongoing enhancement of NMIT’s Bachelor of Social Work programmes, as well as her wider contribution to social work education, research and the profession.
In the awards submission, the NMIT Social Work team highlighted her many achievements and contributions.
“Throughout her career, Sarah has helped prepare hundreds of social work graduates to become reflective, evidence-informed and culturally responsive practitioners.”
The nomination noted that Sarah’s influence extends well beyond the classroom through curriculum development, research, supervision and strong partnerships with organisations across the social work sector.
Sarah has also played an important role in Te Ata Māhina, helping to embed mātauranga Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and partnership into social work education. Her research into student wellbeing, resilience and social work education has contributed to practical improvements in student support and programme delivery.
A key strength of Sarah’s work is the way she connects research, education and frontline practice, ensuring each informs the other. She also generously supports colleagues, emerging academics and practice educators, helping to build capability across the profession.
Sarah says she feels privileged to do work that contributes to the social work profession.
“As a teacher, so much of this work happens in the background – developing programmes, supporting students and colleagues, undertaking research and building relationships, so it’s really special to have that contribution acknowledged in this way.”
Sarah’s award celebrates the significant impact she has made on NMIT learners, colleagues and the wider social work profession through her commitment to strengthening social work education in Aotearoa New Zealand.
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