The University of Melbourne has conferred honorary doctorates on five eminent people for their endeavors in a variety of fields.
The group includes a trailblazing music educator, a distinguished anthropologist, champions of urban and preventative health and a Yorta Yorta leader dedicated to a lifetime of advocacy for Aboriginal affairs.
The five recipients were conferred with the University of Melbourne's highest honour during various graduation ceremonies over the past weeks.
They are:
Dr Kiran Martin, Doctor of Laws (honoris causa): Dr Martin is the founder and director of Asha, a pioneering organisation transforming the lives of nearly 1 million people in slum communities in and around New Delhi. A visionary leader in urban health and social justice, Dr Martin has established programs that significantly improve health, education, and socio-economic conditions. Her groundbreaking work has received national and international acclaim, including recognition as "best practice" by the United Nations Habitat program. Dr Martin's impactful initiatives empower marginalised communities and address systemic inequalities, including caste and gender-based disparities. Read more here.
Associate Professor Martha Macintyre, Doctor of Letters (honoris causa): Associate Professor Macintyre is a leading anthropologist known for her groundbreaking research on gender, colonialism and socio-economic inequalities in the Pacific Islands. Her work has redefined understandings of personhood, agency, and inequality, influencing both academic thought and practical interventions in industries like mining and public health. A fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, Associate Professor Macintyre's extensive contributions include mentoring the next generation of anthropologists and advocating for gender equity and sustainability in Oceania. Read more here.
The Hon Nicola Roxon, Doctor of Laws (honoris causa): A former Federal Cabinet Minister and Australia's first female Attorney-General, Ms Roxon is celebrated globally for her exceptional leadership in health policy, including her courageous implementation of the world's first plain packaging legislation for tobacco. As Minister for Health and Ageing Ms Roxon introduced transformative health system reforms and successfully led a defence of plain packaging laws against legal challenges in the High Court of Australia and in opposition to the World Trade Organization. Her efforts have led to a significant reduction in smoking rates and inspired more than 40 countries to adopt similar measures. Currently a non-executive director and chair in health-focused organisations, Ms Roxon continues to champion preventative health and social equity. Read more here.
Uncle Paul Briggs AO, Doctor of Laws (honoris causa): Uncle Paul Briggs is a Yorta Yorta leader and lifelong advocate for Indigenous self-determination, social inclusion and community empowerment. Growing up along the banks of the Dungala (Murray River) at Cummeragunja, he was inspired by a long line of Yorta Yorta leaders to advocate for Aboriginal people's rights and advancement. He has championed transformative initiatives including the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation and, most notably, the Rumbalara Football Netball Club. This is driven by his recognition of the vital role sport plays in Indigenous communities and as a mechanism to break down racial barriers and engage with the wider community. Uncle Paul's leadership extends to education through the Academy of Sport Health and Education and the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence. Read more here.
Professor André de Quadros, Doctor of Fine Arts and Music (honoris causa): Professor De Quadros is an internationally acclaimed music educator, conductor, ethnomusicologist and human rights activist. With a career spanning more than 40 countries, he has used music as a tool for peacebuilding and psychosocial rehabilitation in communities affected by trauma, conflict, and inequality. Currently a Professor of Music at Boston University, he has made significant contributions to arts and health initiatives and peacebuilding. A two-time University of Melbourne graduate, Professor De Quadros' achievements include awards for social justice and lifetime contributions to choral music. Read more here.
University of Melbourne Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Nicola Phillips commended the exceptional contributions of the recipients.
"These five remarkable individuals embody the University's commitment to community service, global impact, and advancing human wellbeing," Professor Phillips said.
"Through their visionary leadership, creativity, and dedication, they have made profound contributions to society, and we are honoured to recognise their achievements."
