The Advertiser/Sunday Mail published a list of 50 of South Australia’s most prominent female leaders aged in their 50s, each with vast experience in their industries and game-changing impacts on our state – and Flinders University graduates took a starring role in the spotlight.

From instrumental roles across sporting codes, pioneering voices for Indigenous women and young girls in STEM industries and prominent hands in shaping the politics of our nation, these women have made immeasurable contributions in their fields.

The list included an impressive number of Flinders University alumni, led by SA Deputy Premier The Hon Susan Elizabeth Close MP (Bachelor of Arts 1989, Bachelor of Arts with Honours 1991, Doctor of Philosophy (Social Sciences) 1998).

Also notable is current Flinders University staff member Professor Tracey Wade, Director of FIMWell in the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work (Bachelor of Science 1986, Doctor of Philosophy (Social Sciences) 1998).

Other Flinders alumni in the list included Maria Hagias, CEO of Women’s Safety Services SA (Bachelor of Arts 1989); AFL Senior Executive Tanya Hosch (Honorary Doctor of the University 2022); Imelda Lynch, former CEO of the Heart Foundation SA/NT and now member-elected Adelaide Crows board director (Bachelor of Nursing 1993, Master of Health Service Management 1999); SAHMRI Executive Director Professor Maria Makrides (Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics 1991, Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) 1995, 2023 Flinders University Convocation Medallist); Junction Australia CEO Maria Palumbo (Bachelor of Commerce 1993); Sarah Sutter, Be Well Trainer at Be Well Co and former CEO of Natureplay (Bachelor of Education (Upper Primary/Lower Secondary) 1994); and Christine Zeitz, CEO of Northrop Grumman Australia and former Flinders University Council Member (Bachelor of Economics (Accounting) 1990).