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.
Graduates were joined by community leaders joining an esteemed cohort of honorary graduates acknowledging their exceptional contributions to society in their fields.
The Hon Michael Egan AO received an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his significant contribution to Macquarie University as well as 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 retirement in 2019, Mr Egan served as New South Wales’ longest-serving Treasurer from 1995 to 2005, and on several government and non-government advisory boards.
Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor S Bruce Dowton unveiled the naming of the new Graduation Hall in honour of Mr Egan at the graduation ceremony on 16 March.
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.
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.
“Macquarie University is also proud to bestow Honorary Doctorates on three outstanding members of the University community for their significant contributions to society.”
