C.A.S. Hawker Scholars
2025
Mr Joel Ransom
Degrees: Bachelor of Medical Studies
Institution: University of Adelaide
In Residence: St Mark’s College
Career Goal: to use his tertiary education, cultural understanding and leadership experience to serve as a doctor in rural and Indigenous communities
Education History: St John’s Grammar and University of Adelaide
Joel Ransom’s scholastic excellence is formidable. He graduated with an ATAR of 99.95. He is an outstanding student and leader of impeccable character, with a strong record of service and a profound commitment to using his talents for the betterment of others and the future of Australia, especially in rural and Indigenous communities.
In his first year at the University of Adelaide, Joel proved to be the most outstanding all-round individual in an outstanding cohort of first-year students at St Mark’s College. He secured an Academic Commendation for his straight High Distinctions in his first semester, and the Prize for Outstanding Results in Psychology for the full year. He secured seven High Distinctions and one Distinction in 2024.
Joel represented St Mark's in inter-college swimming and athletics and inter-college debating. He was awarded College Colours for his outstanding performance. This success is even more impressive for a primary school student who for years had to deal with multiple orthodontic devices and weekly speech pathology sessions to correct a serious speech impediment. In his senior year, Joel competed in the State Finals of the Rostrum Voice of Youth and Legacy competitions and placed 3rd in the PESA State Final.
In 2024 Joel actively engaged in community service work with the St Mark’s students' Charitable Foundation. He initiated a project to raise awareness of homelessness. This involved many students both "sleeping out" and preparing over 800 meals for disadvantaged people through the Magdalene Centre.
Joel has established himself as an outstanding leader and is highly respected by his peers. He was elected by his fellow students as Male Equity Officer for 2025. In this role, he will continue his focus on health promotion and community service.
Charles Hawker’s personal courage, unwavering commitment to rural Australia, and great integrity has inspired Joel. Charles Hawker dared to make a difference, at personal cost, even when confronted by adversity. Joel believes that ‘honouring his legacy comes with the obligation to strive every day to reach your potential in the service of others’.