Macquarie University’s longest-serving Chancellor Michael Egan was awarded an Honorary Doctorate last Wednesday 16 March. He joins more than 2000 alumni graduating at ceremonies on campus in coming weeks.

Dr Egan took the stage in the newly-named Michael Egan Hall to receive the Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his significant contribution to Macquarie University, to health and medical research and to the state of New South Wales. In addition to being Macquarie’s longest-serving Chancellor during a period of substantial change from 2008 until 2019, Dr Egan was NSW longest-serving Treasurer from 1995 to 2005. He also served on several government and non-government advisory boards.

Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton unveiled the naming of the new Graduation Hall in honour of Dr Egan at the graduation ceremony on Wednesday.

Staff who attended graduation ceremonies presided over by Dr Egan will see the naming as a fitting tribute. During his time as Chancellor, Dr Egan commanded the attention of his graduation audiences and had a propensity to entertain with his repertoire of amusing anecdotes.

In the biggest graduation week of the year, 1267 women and 918 men received their degrees, diplomas and certificates. Of the degrees conferred, 47 went to Doctoral (PhD) candidates.

Professor Dowton congratulated new alumni and pre-eminent Honorary Doctorate recipients.

“Many of our graduates have waited some time for their graduation ceremonies to take place because of COVID-19, and I congratulate them all for their achievements as well as patience in completing their studies and having the opportunity to celebrate this today with family and friends.

---

Other Honorary Doctorates join an esteemed cohort

Macquarie University also bestowed Honorary Doctorates on two other outstanding members of the University community last week for their significant contributions to society.

Australia’s first Astronomer-at-Large, Professor Fred Watson AM, was awarded the degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) for his outstanding contribution to science outreach and astronomical research, as well as his deep ongoing engagement with Macquarie University’s Australian Astronomical Optics and Department of Physics and Astronomy.

Macquarie Alumnus Matt Barrie, entrepreneur and business leader, received an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his contributions in the global technology and finance industries, and as a member of the Macquarie University community.

Macquarie’s three newest honorary graduates are joining an esteemed cohort who have all been acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to society in their fields.