Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting AO has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Tasmania at a graduation ceremony in Launceston.
Mr Ponting, who grew up in Launceston, received the Doctor of Philosophy Honoris Causa for his outstanding contribution to sport in Australia.
Besides his hugely successful cricket career, Mr Ponting has been a remarkable ambassador for Tasmania, a strong advocate for young people and an active philanthropist, supporting a range of causes in the areas of education, health, and children's charities.
More than 500 students celebrated their graduation by attending ceremonies being held at the Launceston Convention Centre. The students graduated in disciplines from across the University, including allied health, nursing, various sciences, arts, education, business, the University College pathways program and graduate research.
The Town and Gown Parade for students and staff made a celebratory path from Civic Square to the Inveresk Campus, finishing at The Shed, the state-of-the art health and science facility which opened in October this year.
More than 1500 students are celebrating their graduation in Hobart at My State Arena, Glenorchy, on December 17, 18 and 19.
North West graduations take place in Autumn to align with placements and course structures.
About Ricky Ponting AO
Since 2002, Mr Ponting and his wife, Rianna, have raised in excess of $10 million to help young Australians and their families beat cancer. In 2008 they established the Ponting Foundation, which supports children and young people through their childhood cancer journey.
Mr Ponting has been a remarkable ambassador for Tasmania, his home state, encouraging others to explore the island's natural beauty and unique cultural offerings.
In Tasmania, he has been widely involved in fundraising partnerships and initiatives that assist young Tasmanians with cancer and their families. The Ponting Foundation recently announced their latest commitment to the Tasmanian health system that will make a significant contribution to its work via a new annual fundraising campaign.
Ricky is an advocate for international student recruitment in India for the University and has actively supported programs on the ground there.
As the most successful Australian cricket captain of all time, Mr Ponting's sporting success is well known. He captained Australia from 2004 to 2011 and played 168 test matches for Australia. Since retiring, he has earned similar accolades as a cricket broadcaster as well as being a highly sought-after coach in the T20 formats of the game.
Release ends
Media please note:
Graduation ceremonies are livestreamed here. The University Communications team can supply a graduation image of Mr Ponting.
