CDU arts leader celebrates prestigious accolade

Charles Darwin University (CDU) Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor First Nations Leadership Professor Ruth Wallace has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the Australian National University (ANU).

The Doctor of Letters honoris causa, awarded during ANU’s February graduation ceremony, recognises Professor Wallace’s contribution to improving First Nations education, remote workforce development and equitable learning pathways throughout Northern Australia.

A doctorate of this kind is awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to their field and community and is one of the highest accolades an academic institution can bestow.

Her research into the political, social and geographic factors influencing education and workforce development have informed approaches to training that serve community needs nationwide, highlighting the meaningful influence of CDU’s leadership.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the Australian National University,” she said.

“It marks commitment and progress to Aboriginal Education achieved through partnerships and collaborative leadership.

“Milestones such as this one offer us a moment to reflect on the excellent work completed so far, as well as the path to come and impact we might yet have.”

Professor Wallace is widely acknowledged for her strong leadership in complex and multidisciplinary settings and has been recognised for building strong stakeholder relations across government agencies, non-government sectors, industry organisations and Indigenous communities. 

She was part of the team that developed and advises on the Pat Turner Scholarship program funded through the Sir Roland Wilson Foundation for outstanding First Nations public servants to study at CDU or ANU.  

Notably, in 2016 Professor Wallace’s research connecting Indigenous communities with biosecurity surveillance saw her become the first woman to receive the Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Agriculture and Life Sciences.