Former ACT Chief Minister awarded honorary doctorate

7 October 2011: Former ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope says he’s honoured and delighted to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Canberra.

Professor Stanhope stepped down after 10 years as Chief Minister in May, where he was instrumental in forging closer ties between the ACT Government and the University through a memorandum of understanding.

In addition to serving as Chief Minister of the ACT, Professor Stanhope held concurrent appointments over that period as Treasurer, Attorney-General, Minister for Health, Territory and Municipal Services, Environment, Economic Development, Arts and Heritage, Indigenous Affairs and Land and Property Services.

Professor Jon Stanhope (centre) with his wife and daughter at the graduation ceremony. Photo: Michelle McAulay

Professor Stanhope joined the University as a Professorial Fellow within the ANZSOG Institute of Governance in August 2011.

“I am enjoying my new role in academia and playing a part in helping the University of Canberra continue on its path of growth and excellence in education, research and service to the community,” he said.

“I have been impressed for many years by the significant positive impact the University of Canberra makes to the capital region.

“It is a real privilege to be honoured by the University in this way.”

Before being elected to the ACT Legislative Assembly in 1998, Mr Stanhope held various positions including adviser to federal opposition leader Kim Beazley and chief of staff to Attorney-General Michael Lavarch.

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