Fulbright Scholar success for Western

Western Sydney University graduate Dr Stephanie Lee has been awarded a prestigious 2026 Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarship. Western also welcomes Stanford University graduate and transportation engineer and planner, Maria Correa who was selected as this year’s Fulbright-Western Sydney University Postgraduate Scholar.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Ian Anderson congratulated Dr Stephanie Lee and welcomed Maria Correa.

“Western has a long history with Fulbright Australia and I am delighted to see its continuation with these vital global research collaborations set to deliver excellence and impact,” said Professor Anderson.

Established in 1946, the Fulbright Program is the flagship foreign exchange scholarship program of the United States, aimed at increasing bi-national research collaboration, cultural understanding, and the exchange of ideas.

Dr Stephanie Lee will travel to the United States to undertake a Master of Public Health while researching models of care for chronic paediatric disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Stephanie intends to explore how health systems, policy, and advocacy shape the lived experiences and outcomes of children and families. Stephanie aims to translate her public health leadership into equitable, sustainable improvements for children living with chronic disease.

"I am inspired by the Fulbright’s vision of bilateral advocacy and exchange. I am also excited to learn from global leaders and explore how health policy and system design can build more equitable and sustainable models of care for our paediatric patients," said Dr Lee.

Maria Correa will investigate transportation access and mobility for low-income, migrant individuals in Western Sydney in collaboration with Western Sydney University and Transport for New South Wales. Maria is a Transportation Engineer and Planner based in the Bay Area, specializing in equitable public and active transport modes.

"I am elated at the opportunity to conduct research with Western's Institute for Culture and Society and expand our understanding of how public transportation infrastructure can service low-income, migrant communities in the area," said Ms Correa.

ENDS.

12 February 2026
Media Team