CDU University Secretary recognised with Queen’s Birthday Honour

Charles Darwin University (CDU) University Secretary, Professor Hilary Winchester, has been recognised with Queen’s Birthday Honours for her contributions to the university. 

Professor Winchester has been recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant services to governance and university administration.

Professor Winchester has extensive experience leading higher education governance, management, and quality assurance.

Her distinguished academic career began at the University of Oxford, where she completed a trinity of qualifications – Bachelor, Master and Doctorate, which laid the foundations for a stellar career in teaching and research.

Professor Winchester has served on three university councils, acted as both Chair and Member on 16 university-related boards, has Chaired 12 Accreditation and Review panels, and has led Governance reviews into 16 universities and training providers globally.

“I have dedicated much of my career to academia, university governance and administration and being recognised for this was such a wonderful surprise,” Professor Winchester said.

“I feel very honoured to receive this award and be acknowledged with many other Australians who are doing incredible things.”

Professor Winchester possesses extensive commercial acumen, as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and as a Board Director.

CDU Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman AO congratulated Ms Winchester on the honour, which has supported the university with its strategic goals.  

“I have had the pleasure of working with Professor Winchester for 20 years and regard her as the best university administrator in the country,” Professor Bowman said.

Professor Bowman said during her time at CDU, Hilary has implemented structure and processes for decision-making, risk management and policy review.

“Ms Winchester's contribution has provided the foundational elements for our university to reach its goals, grow and has provided the scaffolding to ensure we are well placed to respond to change,” he said.

“Professor Winchester has continually strived for the best outcomes for the university, and I congratulate her on this acknowledgement, which is every bit deserved.”