University of Adelaide celebrates graduation

2011 graduations at the University of Adelaide start on Wednesday 13 April
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Tuesday, 12 April 2011

The graduation of more than 4,800 University of Adelaide students will be celebrated over 12 ceremonies in Bonython Hall starting tomorrow, Wednesday 13 April.

Among the students graduating will be Australia's first indigenous Rhodes Scholar Rebecca Richards, receiving her Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Anthropology.

The University of Adelaide is also honouring prominent South Australian businessman Mr Ross Adler AC who will be admitted to the degree of Doctor of the University for distinguished service to the University of Adelaide on Thursday 14 April at 10am.

Mr Adler served on the University Council for 11 years until his retirement in December 2009, in a number of capacities including Chair of the Finance Committee (from 2000) and Deputy Chancellor (March 2007-Dec 2009).

Mr Adler, who was Managing Director of Santos for 16 years, then Chairman and CEO of Amtrade International and has been Chairman of Austrade and Director of both Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Telstra, is both an Officer of the Order of Australia and Companion of the Order of Australia.

In 2003 the University admitted Mr Adler to the degree of Master of Business Administration ad eundum gradum in recognition of his lifetime of achievement in business leadership.

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha said: "Mr Adler's expertise and wide experience in business and finance proved invaluable in helping the University achieve a sound financial position, as prepared as it can be to face future challenges. We owe a great deal to his contributions of more than a decade."

Students will hear from a variety of community leaders including Education Adelaide Chair Bill Spurr, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Grace Portolesi, Chief Executive of the Department of Planning and Local Government Ian Nightingale, Acting Director of RiAus Dr Jane Lomax-Smith, and Chief Executive of Sydac Adrian Smith.

"Graduation is a highlight of the University of Adelaide's calendar, a time when the whole University community celebrates the tremendous achievements of our students," said Professor McWha.

"Many of these graduates will go on to make a significant impact within the community, some of them leaders in their fields. We wish them all well in their future careers and look forward to hearing of their ongoing achievement."

The graduations ceremonies can be watched live over the internet from www.adelaide.edu.au/student/graduations/live/

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