Former Deputy Chancellor of Charles Sturt University (CSU) Dr Kathryn Pitkin was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia on Monday 13 June 2016.

Dr Pitkin's (left in photo) appointment was in honour of her 'significant service to tertiary education and training, particularly for those in rural and regional Australia, and to the community'.

In December 2014, the CSU Council conferred the award of Doctor of the University (honoris causa) on Dr Pitkin in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the 'public good' and to the establishment of CSU as a regional, national and international institution.

CSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Vann said, "Dr Pitkin is a determined advocate for expanding regional education opportunities and passionate supporter of Charles Sturt University.

"I am delighted that her service and contribution to not only the University but also the community have been acknowledged in this way."

He said, "Dr Pitkin has had a distinguished career as a rural school teacher, and in regional vocational education spanning more than 30 years, including more than 21 years as a teacher and Institute Manager with NSW TAFE.

"Dr Pitkin was a member of the University Council for almost 12 years, serving as Deputy Chancellor from 2007 until her retirement in September 2014. During this time she made a very significant and distinguished contribution to the mission, development and advancement of Charles Sturt University."

In parallel with her service to CSU, Dr Pitkin contributed her skills, energy and enthusiasm for education as a volunteer manager of OzScot Australia. She was also actively engaged in community and vocational training, running programs in mental health for the Hunter Institute for Mental Health, volunteering for the National Trust of Australia (NSW) and teaching music.

Professor Vann said, "Our congratulations go to Dr Pitkin on receipt of her Queen's Birthday honour; a deserving recognition for her commitment to expanding opportunity and educational attainment in rural and regional NSW."

Meanwhile, a CSU graduate and another recipient of a CSU honorary doctorate has been also honoured in the Queen's Birthday honours list.

Dr Emma Leslie has been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) 'For significant service to international relations through the facilitation of a network of conflict transformation and peace practitioners in the Asia-Pacific region'.