Francis Regan Scholarship

Encouraging students who are passionate about social justice

As a child Ksenia Zinoviev knew two things about the career she wanted, it had to involve engaging with people and it had to be a role where she could make a positive difference in the lives of those people.

‘It was after learning about the compassionate nature of a psychologist’s role that I knew psychology was the career I most wanted to pursue,’ says Ksenia.

She is now in her final year of a Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Flinders University where she is exploring the relationship between well-being and social activism.

This year Ksenia received the Francis Regan Scholarship to support her during her studies. The scholarship was established through donations from family, friends and colleagues of the late Associate Professor Francis Regan, who was both a Flinders alumni and a Legal Studies staff member. The scholarship continues the legacy of his research into inequity within the legal system and supports students who share his passion for social justice.

Ksenia developed her passion for advancing equity in society during her time as a Youth Worker in a residential care setting.

‘My role included advocating for disadvantaged young people by liaising with social workers and other professionals. I also spent time volunteering as a Youth Mentor with a young person from a refugee background. Both roles allowed me to see the disparities in opportunity between different societal groups.’

The scholarship has been instrumental in relieving Ksenia’s financial pressures and her daily juggle of study and work so that she can focus on her thesis.

‘I received the scholarship at a time where I was living in a share house, juggling two casual jobs, placement commitments and writing my master’s thesis,’ says Ksenia. ‘It allowed me to take some time out from paid work and prioritise completing my thesis by the end of the year.’

Ksenia is both grateful and honoured to receive the scholarship under the legacy of Associate Professor Francis Regan and says, ‘It has further motivated me to continue shaping my work around our shared passion for social justice, particularly by assisting young people to overcome challenging circumstances and encouraging new opportunities.’

‘Thank you to the donors for making the scholarship possible.’

After graduating, Ksenia plans to become a Registered Psychologist with a focus on complex youth mental health, and eventually opening a private psychology practice where she can continue working towards advancing equity within the youth population.

You can help students like Ksenia reach their goals by donating to student scholarships at Flinders University. 100% of your tax-deductible donation will support students at Flinders University.

Donate today

_{Published 2020. Author Lynda Allen.}

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