Vignette 33: University Chancellor advocating for human rights

Catherine Branson AC KC is an inspiration to the University community. As the first female Crown Solicitor in Australia and the first woman to lead a government department in South Australia, she has paved the way for women in law and governing leadership. 

Throughout her career, she has been an advocate and a role model for gender equality. Branson served with distinction as a judge on the Federal Court of Australia for over 14 years and spent four years as the President of the Australian Human Rights Commission. She was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia in 2018 for her eminent service to the judiciary as a Judge on the Federal Court of Australia, to the law as an advocate for human rights and civil liberties, to judicial administration and professional 
development, and governance roles in tertiary education. 

Appointed as the 17th Chancellor in July 2020, Branson’s leadership proved crucial in steering the University through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her strategic vision together with her commitment to diversity, equity, and excellence have been hallmarks of her term as Chancellor. 

As the University continues to navigate the complexities of the modern academic environment, Branson stands as an exemplar of leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and societal progress.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Nurturing excellence. p.51