In recognition of his exceptional service as Chancellor over the past eight years as well as his contributions to the wider community, the University of Notre Dame Australia is delighted to announce that it will be conferring on the Honourable Christopher Ellison the degree of Honorary Doctor of Letters.
Throughout his years as Chancellor, the Hon Christopher Ellison has provided unwavering leadership and deep personal commitment to advancing the mission and values of the University. He has contributed in a vitally important way to the development of the Fremantle, Broome and Sydney campuses, which have underpinned a period of remarkable growth for the University. Chris has also been a highly effective advocate for the University in the wider community promoting the opportunities it offers, supporting its educational and research achievements, and encouraging practical support for its aspirations and plans for the future.
In a distinguished Commonwealth Parliamentary career, the Hon Christopher Ellison served as a Cabinet Minister in the Howard Government, including as Australia’s longest serving Minister for Justice. He represented Western Australia in the Senate from 1993-2009 and was a Minister for more than a decade in portfolios including Justice and Customs, Human Services, Schools and Vocational Education and Training.
Beyond his role in the Australian Parliament, Christopher has made significant contributions to education, law, and community service. A graduate of the University of Western Australia, he practised as a barrister and solicitor as a partner in his own firm and later served on numerous boards, including those of Trinity College, Australia’s Northwest Tourism and the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation and he continues to serve on the Board of the SAS Resources Fund.
The University of Notre Dame Australia is deeply appreciative of all that Chris Ellison has contributed and achieved as Chancellor and we thank him for his dedication, service and leadership which have left an enduring legacy.
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