The Hills Original Award celebrates the achievements of our Graduates. It is presented each year to a ‘Hills’ alumnus who embodies our motto, Strive for Excellence. Recipients are leaders in their field and embody the school values of Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence. This year’s Hills Original Award recipient is Shirley Liu from the Class of 2010.
Shirley has built an impressive career defined by leadership, creativity, and a deep commitment to the Deaf community. Her work in graphic design, mentoring, and teaching support reflects a strong blend of innovation and community focus. Shirley’s influence extends beyond her professional roles. As CEO of Deaf Australia, she leads with clarity and purpose, dedicated to advancing Deaf representation and rights. Internationally, she continues this work as a member of the Board of the World Federation of the Deaf.
Her global leadership began early – she spent eight years with the World Federation of the Deaf Youth Section, ultimately serving as president and championing the human rights of Deaf young people worldwide. Her advocacy has had a significant, real-world impact. During the 2020 bushfires, Shirley helped drive Auslan Media Access, ensuring that vital emergency information reached the Deaf community through consistent use of on-screen interpreters across press conferences, broadcasts, and livestreams. This initiative reshaped expectations for accessible communication during crises and continues to influence national approaches to inclusion.
Shirley’s contributions continue to advance accessibility, inclusion, and recognition for Deaf people.
She is a truly worthy recipient of the 2025 Hills Original Alumni Award for Excellence in Community Advocacy.