Former Chancellor Jim Gill has been recognised for his long and fruitful association with Curtin University with an Honorary Doctorate of Technology.
Dr Gill, who was Chancellor from 2010 to 2012, first became associated with the University while Chief Executive of WA’s Water Corporation and went on to play a leading role in several major Curtin initiatives.
Current Curtin Chancellor Mr Colin Beckett said Dr Gill’s work as Chancellor had helped ensure the University was well placed to be recognised as an international leader in research and education.
“Dr Gill was a key player in the establishment of a partnership between Curtin and the Water Corporation more than 10 years ago,” Mr Beckett said.
“That partnership led to the formation of the Curtin Water Quality Research Centre, which continues to work closely with the Water Corporation on important research across the State.
“As Chancellor, Dr Gill supported several major initiatives to support Curtin’s commitment to being an international leader in higher education working towards the benefit of society: namely the Curtin Law School, the University’s proposed Medical School and the philanthropic focus of the Curtin Foundation.”
Mr Beckett said Curtin was pleased to bestow Dr Gill with an Honorary Doctorate.
“At all times, Dr Gill has dedicated himself to his professional activities and shared his immense knowledge for the broad benefit of all who live in the State,” said Mr Beckett.
“As Western Australia’s Commissioner of Railways from 1988 to 1995, Dr Gill oversaw the transition of Perth’s rail system from diesel to electric and also the construction of the Joondalup line.
“His major achievement as CEO of the Water Corporation was the comprehensive and effective response to WA’s drying climate, including a public awareness campaign that secured water savings of up to 45 gigalitres per year.”
Dr Gill’s professional work has been complemented by countless hours of voluntary time spent lending his professional expertise as an industry, business, academic and community advisor and he was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2009.
Dr Gill was presented with his Honorary Doctorate in a ceremony at Curtin’s Bentley Campus.
