Griffith University Chancellor Leneen Forde has been named a Queensland Great at an official ceremony celebrating Queensland Week.
A former State Governor and Queenslander of the Year, Ms Forde said she was both honoured and humbled to receive the title.
The special award recognises people who have played a significant role in the history and development of Queensland and who personify its vision and ideals over a considerable period of time.
Ms Forde said she believed she received the award because she was an example of an ‘average’ Queenslander.
“As Governor, I travelled all around the state and met a large number of Queenslanders from many walks of life,” Ms Forde said.
“I was often struck by the tenacity and good humour of these ‘average’ Queenslanders, and it struck me that this must be the real reason I was chosen as a Queensland Great — because I represent what it means to be such an ‘average’ Queenslander.”
In congratulating Ms Forde, Griffith University Vice Chancellor Professor Ian O’Connor said the University was extremely proud of her latest achievement in a remarkable life.
“Throughout a distinguished legal career in which she played a lead role in advancing the social and economic welfare of the people of Queensland, Ms Forde has made significant contributions, particularly to enhancing the status and interests of women,” Professor O’Connor said.
“Serving on various state and national boards and as Chair of the Commission of Inquiry into Abuse of Children in Queensland Institutions – commonly known as the Forde Inquiry — Ms Forde has been an inspiration for many Queenslanders.”
Professor O’Connor said as Griffith’s Chancellor, Ms Forde has served the University with tremendous dedication and zeal, and under her leadership Griffith had grown into a University of enviable national and international reputation.
Queensland Premier Peter Beattie presented the title to Ms Forde during a ceremony at Roma Street Parklands today.
Photographs available on request.