Leading women and men in the fields of mining, medicine and business have been recognised with special citations at Flinders’ September graduation ceremonies.
BHP’s Principal Geometallurgist, Dr Kathy Ehrig, was awarded the degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa, recognising her 24-year quest to unravel the complex mineralogy and geology of South Australia’s vast Olympic Dam mineral deposit – the largest uranium, fifth largest copper and third largest gold resource on the planet.
Dr Ehrig’s esteemed international reputation as a researcher and her rise to a senior position in the world’s biggest mining company stands as a landmark achievement in a male-dominated industry.
Dr Ehrig has discovered more about the geology, mineralogy and genesis of the Olympic Dam deposit than any other person.
Her ability to understand the genesis of Olympic Dam has enabled the development of metallurgical performance predictors for the entire deposit, including predictors of mineral abundances based on drill core assays.
Emeritus Professor Peter Mudge was awarded the degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa in recognition of his extraordinary career and service to medicine spanning more than 50 years, which has included roles in research, medical education and voluntary medical leadership.
Appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2016, Professor Mudge has previously won the prestigious Rose Hunt Award from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, where he has a Life Fellowship.
Mrs Peggy Lau Flux, a migrant success story close to Flinders’ heart, has been named a Companion of the University in recognition of her invaluable contribution to the University’s governance and financial performance.
Originally a successful international corporate banker in Hong Kong, Mrs Lau Flux came to Adelaide 25 years ago, and has been crucial in helping to build Flinders’ capacity and growth, especially in the health, education and community sectors.
Her extensive knowledge and expertise made her a key member of the Flinders Council leadership team from 2005 to 2016, and she remains active as a Director and Chair of Flinders Partners, the commercialisation arm for the University.