Eminent Australians receive honorary doctorates

Tuesday, 12 September 2017

Two eminent Australians will be awarded honorary doctorates by the University of Adelaide as part of the University’s September graduations this week.

Former High Court Judge the Honourable Michael Kirby, AC, CMG and Ms Andrea Mason, Chief Executive Officer of the Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (NPY) Women’s Council, will join more than 1400 graduates being awarded their degrees in Bonython Hall in six ceremonies from today, Tuesday 12 September through to Thursday 14 September.

Michael Kirby is being awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University for his exceptional service in law, in human rights and in other public advocacy.

He is an international jurist, former High Court judge and educator; renowned for his contribution in many areas including alternative dispute resolution, LGBTIQ rights, animal welfare, the arts, HIV / AIDS and the global right to health.

At just 36, Michael Kirby became the youngest person ever appointed to a federal judicial office and, when he retired from the High Court in 2009, he was Australia’s longest-serving judge. During his long and distinguished legal career, he demonstrated a passionate commitment to law reform.

Ms Andrea Mason is being awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University for her outstanding contribution to Aboriginal, Australian and international communities through her commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social justice.

As CEO of the NPY Women’s Council she works across a 350,000 square kilometres of central Australia, supporting Aboriginal women and their communities in creating employment, supporting health and wellbeing, and tackling domestic violence and other social challenges.

She was named Telstra Australian Business Woman of the Year last year and this year was chosen as the Northern Territory Australian of the Year.

University of Adelaide Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Mike Brooks says: “Graduations are a highlight of the University calendar – the culmination of many years’ hard work by our students, and the opportunity to recognise exceptional members of our community.”

Contact Details