University of Canberra Assistant Professor of Nursing, Dr Sarah Cope—who passed away after a short illness earlier this year—will be honoured by colleagues, family and friends for her work and friendship at the inaugural Dr Sarah Cope Memorial Lecture at the University this Friday.
Dr Cope was an amazing voice and leader in the aged care space, and the memorial lecture is intended to raise the profile of nursing care for older people.
An annual student award has been set up in Dr Cope's memory, the Caring for Older People Excellence (COPE) Award, which recognises an undergraduate nursing student who shows enthusiasm and passion for caring for older people and keeps Dr Cope's legacy alive.
The inaugural award will be presented to UC Nursing student Jess Turner, for her commitment to improving the life experience of older people, especially those who have been diagnosed with dementia.
"This award not only acknowledges the significant contribution that Dr Cope made in her lifetime, but also her enduring legacy creating an impetus for students to continue to improve nursing care and initiatives for older people in our community," said Michelle Lincoln, Executive Dean of Health at the University of Canberra.
The memorial lecture will be delivered by Dr Cope's former doctoral supervisor Professor Elizabeth Beattie from the Queensland University of Technology. Other key speakers will present research in ageing, while former UC students will present key memories of Dr Cope's teaching.
A bottlebrush tree has been planted outside the Nursing building at the University, in Dr Cope's memory. Dr Cope was an avid car lover, especially fond of Ford Mustangs, and her husband Ian Cope and colleague Dr Kasia Bail will be showing off their Mustangs in Dr Cope's honour at the occasion.
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