Swinburne honours education advocate

Former Swinburne Council member, Kathleen Watson, will receive an honorary doctorate today in recognition of her support of education, the community, disadvantaged women and the university.

Ms Watson is a well-known and warmly regarded member of the Swinburne University of Technology community and was a member of the University Council from 1992 – 2004. 

“Kath Watson is a close friend of Swinburne and has been a dedicated contributor to the community and the university for many years. The honorary doctorate is an opportunity for us to recognise this contribution and honour her as a member of the Swinburne family,” said Swinburne Vice-Chancellor Professor Linda Kristjanson.

“Kath’s commitment to serve others, particularly those who are disadvantaged, with dedication and modesty remains at the core of all her professional and philanthropic endeavours.

“She became well known at Swinburne for her common-sense approach and ability to inspire and lead others. Fellow members of the Swinburne Council have praised her willingness to nominate herself for additional tasks and responsibilities required by the university.” 

Ms Watson was born and educated in Melbourne and taught for 40 years in the Victorian high school system. As a well respected teacher in the outer eastern community of Melbourne, she demonstrated dedication and commitment to educating and improving the lives of young people. 

She pioneered the introduction of counselling services in state secondary schools and was instrumental in bringing about the parent-teacher movement in secondary schools.  In 1975 she became the first female principal of a co-educational high school in Victoria. 

In 1987 she was awarded an Order of Australia for her service to education.

A long standing advocate of educating women to reach their full potential, Ms Watson has been a member of the Australian Federation of University Women since 1953.  She has been a donor to Swinburne consistently since 1975.

In 2010, she established the Kath Watson Foundation at Swinburne. The Foundation’s purpose was to encourage increased participation of female students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing tertiary education.

In addition to her significant contributions to education, Ms Watson has continued to balance her commitments by contributing her knowledge, skills and time to various local charities, particularly those which support disadvantaged members of the community. 

The award of Doctor of the University is the highest honour bestowed by Swinburne and will be presented at today’s graduation ceremony at the Melbourne Convention Centre.

 

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