Honorary doctorates celebrate journalism

To celebrate excellence in Australian journalism, six leading journalists have been awarded Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) degrees by the University of Sydney. Six of Australia's best-known journalists have been awarded honorary doctorates by the University of Sydney. Geraldine Doogue AO, Sarah Ferguson, Caroline Jones AO, Michelle Grattan, Ray Martin and Laurie Oakes received Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) degrees at the University during a ceremony and dinner celebrating excellence in Australian journalism. "Honouring the professionalism of these highly acclaimed and awarded journalists is also a timely reminder of the vital role journalism plays in democratic societies," said Chancellor of the University, Belinda Hutchinson AM. "Few sectors have been affected by digital disruption as the news and current affairs media. Financial pressures and the rise of alternative facts and fake news are challenging all media outlets to reassess how they deliver high quality, informative news." Honorary degrees are conferred to people who have made an outstanding contribution to the wider community, or achieved exceptional academic or creative excellence. Geraldine Doogue AO has carved out a high profile career in print and broadcast media since joining the West Australian in 1972.