Two leading Griffith academics have been acknowledged in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List;Professor Allan Cripps and Professor Lesley Chenoweth.

Head of Griffith Logan Campus, Professor Lesley Chenoweth, has been made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for her distinguished service to higher education, particularly in the area of social work, as an academic and administrator, and as a leading supporter of people living with disabilities.

The Professor of Social Work said she is both surprised and delighted by the recognition.

“I was really stunned when I got the letter. It’s not something one expects at all!”

She said she feels very privileged that she has been able to devote her working life to an area about which she is so passionate.

“Certainly my work and my personal values are very much aligned,” Professor Chenoweth said.

“My research has been in disability, and I have been involved in community organisations and movements about upholding the rights of people with disability; so they can lead ordinary lives, go to university, have jobs and just be active and accepted members of the community.”

Vice Chancellor of Griffith University, Professor Ian O’Connor, said the honour was a worthy recognition of Professor Chenoweth’s tireless commitment, not only to teaching and learning opportunities for students at the Logan campus, but also the broader community.

“Professor Chenoweth is a passionate believer in the transformative power of education and this is very evident in her approach to her life and her work,” he said.

“So many lives have been enriched by her service and Griffith is very proud of her unflagging determination to drive change for greater social equity. This is truly a very appropriate tribute to her.”

Pro Vice Chancellor (Health)Professor Allan Cripps was also awarded the Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his distinguished service to tertiary education as a senior administrator, and to public health as a leading immunologist, academic and researcher in the area of mucosal immunisation.

Griffith Vice Chancellor, Professor Ian O’Connor, has extended his warmest congratulations to Professor Cripps.

“Professor Cripps has made a lifelong contribution to the field of health, particularly in enabling the career pathways of thousands of health practitioners and through his work in immunology and research,” Professor O’Connor said.

“I am delighted to see his efforts recognised in this way.”

And former lecturer at the Queensland Conservatorium from 1988 until 1992, Joyce Bennett, has been awarded a Medal in the Order of Australia (OAM) for herservice to music as a teacher, fundraiser and mentor.

Leading Gold Coast community and business figure, Mr Jock McIlwain was also awarded a Medal in The Order of Australia (OAM), for his service to the community through arts and educational organisations. Mr McIlwain is a long time supporter of Griffith University, in particular of the Science On The Go program. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Griffith in 2013.