2006 Media Releases
Thursday 4 May 2006
Honorary doctorate awarded to La Trobe University’s longest serving Chancellor
La Trobe University will confer an Honorary Doctor of Science on one of Australia’s most eminent scientists, Emeritus Professor Nancy Millis, AC, MBE during this Friday’s graduation ceremony in Bendigo.
Professor Millis recently retired from the position of Chancellor of La Trobe University after fourteen years of distinguished service.
Professor Millis is La Trobe University’s longest serving Chancellor and is widely acknowledged for having strengthened the links between universities, industry, science, and the public.
Professor Millis is a pioneer in biotechnology. Her research in microbial physiology, fermentation technology and waste management has established her international reputation as one of Australia’s leading scientists.
She played a key national role as Chairman of the Monitoring Committee for Recombinant DNA (1981-88) and Chairman of the Genetic Manipulation Advisory Committee (1988-2001).
An outstanding teacher, her book "Biochemical Engineering”, is still a standard text. In 1992 the Victorian Government established the Nancy Millis Research Award to support doctoral researchers working in the agricultural disciplines.
During Professor Millis’s fourteen years as Chancellor of La Trobe University, there have been many major developments within the University. She has been an active supporter of the expansion of research into new areas, and has welcomed the large growth in international student enrolments both on and off shore.
Professor Millis has taken particular pleasure in the provision and expansion of quality education to regional Victoria, giving communities access to new education opportunities.
The degree Doctor of Science (honoris causa) will be conferred upon Professor Millis by the University’s new Chancellor, Mrs Sylvia Walton, AO, in recognition of Professor Millis’ outstanding contributions to microbiology and biotechnology, and of her great service to La Trobe University.