Celebrating our new graduates

04 Sep 2023
Academic Excellence
Edition 16 2023
A man in graduation regalia standing in front of a sign that says 2023 throw his graduation cap in the air

UNSW Sydney was delighted to welcome 2,020 graduates back to campus for their graduation ceremonies during the August Graduation Festival, which ran from 21–25 August. 

During the festival, we hosted 12 graduation ceremonies, welcomed approximately 6,000 family and friends, and awarded 2,330 degrees. These ceremonies celebrated graduates who completed their degrees at UNSW between April and June 2023. 

“Graduation is an extremely important milestone for our students and it's wonderful to see the joy and pride that radiates from our graduates and their families and friends at each and every ceremony, as well as in the celebrations that immediately follow. We feel privileged to play a role in these celebrations of our graduates' success,” said Liz Francis, Manager, Graduations and Prizes. 

UNSW students stand with flowers waiting to be photographed
UNSW graduates during the August Graduation Festival.

 

A student walking across the library lawn with a UNSW sign to the side
The August Graduation Festival.

Honorary Degrees recognise service to the University and society

Four Honorary Degrees were conferred during the August Graduation Festival, with the conferrals presided over by Chancellor Mr David Gonski AC. 

The Honorary Degree is recognised as the University’s highest honour. 

Dr H. Clifford Lane, MD received the degree of Doctor of Medical Science, honoris causa, in recognition of his eminent service to the University and society and his outstanding achievements in the field of Medicine. 
 

UNSW honorary graduate Dr H Clifford Lane with special guests
Professor Sean Emery, Senior Vice Dean (Research & Operations), Chancellor Mr David Gonski AC, Dr H. Clifford Lane, MD, Professor Marc Wilkins, Deputy Dean (Research & Enterprise), Mace Bearer Emeritus Professor Stephen Dain.


Ms Elizabeth Koff AM received the degree of Doctor of Health Care, honoris causa, in recognition of her eminent service to the University and society and her outstanding achievements in health management and leadership. 
 

Ms Elizabeth Koff AM with special guests
Mace Bearer Emeritus Professor Stephen Dain, Professor Sean Emery, Senior Vice Dean (Research & Operations), Ms Elizabeth Koff AM, Chancellor Mr David Gonski AC, Professor Chris Styles, Dean, UNSW Business School. 


Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri received the degree of Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, in recognition of his eminent service to the University and society and outstanding achievements in the field of social work and advocacy.
 

Adjunct Professor Anthony M Schembri with special guests
Professor Claire Annesley, Dean, Adjunct Professor Anthony Schembri AM, Chancellor Mr David Gonski AC, Mace Bearer Professor Jan Breckenridge


Dr Pierre Verlinden received the degree of Doctor of Engineering, honoris causa, in recognition of his eminent service to society and his outstanding achievements in the field of photovoltaics. 
 

Dr Pierre Verlinden with special guests
Professor Rita Henderson, Deputy Dean (Societal Impact & Translation), Dr Pierre Verlinden, Chancellor Mr David Gonski AC, Mace Bearer Emeritus Professor Ian Dawes.


Planning for the Graduation Festival began months in advance. Dedicated staff from the Division of External Engagement, Registrar & Student Services, Estate Management, Arc, and staff from the faculties and divisions volunteered their time to make these celebrations special for our graduates, and their families and friends. Thank you to everyone involved in making the Graduation Festival a success.

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