Deakin Vice-Chancellor honoured with business leadership award

The award, conferred during a ceremony in Melbourne last night, recognises Professor den Hollander's work during her eight year tenure at Deakin University, including her work in addressing the challenges faced by the Geelong region during its economic and social transition.

BHERT CEO Dr Peter Binks praised Professor den Hollander's contribution to Victoria and Australia, and particularly to industry-university collaboration.

"The Ashley Goldsworthy Award is named for our patron, who contributed to Australian universities and industry – particularly the IT industry – at all levels for over 40 years," Dr Binks said.

"The award in his name is only rarely given, and the recipient will be a leader who has transformed an aspect of Australia through the way they bring companies and higher education together.

"Professor den Hollander's work in the greater Geelong region has made that region one of the most innovative and exciting in Australia.  She is known for her insight, persuasiveness, and inexhaustible energy.

"Professor den Hollander's industry partners spoke of her vision to activate engagement opportunities for all sections of the community, the way she uses her highly visible profile for the benefit of the people of the region, and her significant involvement in the region’s cultural and social life.

"BHERT is proud to be able to honour Professor den Hollander, and to cite her as a model for university and civic leadership in bringing the higher education and industrial sectors together for the benefit of the nation."

In accepting the award Professor den Hollander said it belonged to the staff of Deakin University and the people of Geelong's communities, as change does not occur without significant commitment from all involved.

"This is a great honour and I have been fortunate to be at the helm of a ship which has helped to steer much change in the eight years I have been at Deakin," Professor den Hollander said.

"Without the commitment and dedication of many great minds, the Geelong region's transition from the old plant style manufacturing to one of advanced innovation across a number of industries, would not be the success story that it is today.

"I am proud of what we have achieved, not just in Geelong, but across Melbourne and the state, and of course in India."

The BHERT Awards, first launched in 1997, are Australia's longest-running and highest-profile recognition of outstanding partnerships with universities.