Honorary doctorates for ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ Festival leaders
Friday, 15 March 2019
Arts luminaries Neil Armfield, Rob Brookman and Rachel Healy will be awarded honorary doctorates by the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen said: “The University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ is delighted to award honorary doctorates to these three nationally recognised leaders of the arts.
“Our graduation ceremonies, while celebrating the achievements of newly awarded graduates, are also an opportunity to recognise the exceptional service of eminent Australians, particularly those who have strong connections to the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ.
“Neil Armfield, Rob Brookman and Rachel Healy have each made outstanding and sustained contributions to the arts and festival scene, which have been vital to South Australia’s reputation as the Festival State, and to the economy.
“The University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ has a long history of fostering the arts in South Australia. Our Elder Professor of Music, John Bishop, is considered a 'founding father' of the ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ Festival and was its first Artistic Director. In 1960, the first Festival was held at venues in and around our University's North Terrace campus.
“Our new strategic plan establishes a clear role for the University as an active participant in the community and as part of the ‘beating heart of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ’, with creativity and culture as one of our five industry engagement priorities,’’ Professor Rathjen said.
The honorary doctorates will be presented during the University’s graduation ceremonies in September 2019.