Flinders University has recognised the outstanding contributions of three esteemed South Australians at graduation ceremonies this week, bestowing them with honorary awards for their significant service to the community.
Seldom awarded, Flinders University honorary awards are presented to distinguished members of the community, whose extraordinary leadership has changed lives.
With more than 42 years of dedicated service, South Australian Police Commissioner Grant Stevens APM has received an honorary Doctor of the University, recognising his exemplary leadership during some of South Australia's most challenging periods, and his unwavering commitment to driving positive change after personal tragedy.
Judith Leeson AM, an advocate for transforming aged care, and Stella Braund, a champion for mental health and passionate voice for the prevention of family violence and sexual assault, have also been recognised for their services to the community by the university.
Flinders University Chancellor John Hood said recipients of honorary awards come from all walks of life and have made their mark through extraordinary community impact.
"I am delighted to formally acknowledge and celebrate our three honorary graduates," says Chancellor Hood.
"Our distinguished recipients have been chosen for their steadfast commitment to serving the community and for exemplifying the values of courage, innovation, integrity and excellence that define our institution. We are delighted to acknowledge their remarkable contributions, which span many decades and continue to have an enduring impact."
The 2025 Honorary award recipients are:
Grant Stevens APM, South Australian Police Commissioner
For over four decades, Police Commissioner Grant Stevens APM, awarded a Doctor of the University honoris causa, has demonstrated outstanding leadership in South Australia and the police.
Commissioner Stevens has served as State Coordinator throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in South Australia and is known for his authoritative yet good-humoured leadership during this time, when his high-profile role saw him become a household name.
Since his son Charlie's death, the Stevens family has continued to advocate for organ donation, youth engagement and road safety, turning a personal tragedy into a force for change. In lieu of flowers, Commissioner Stevens and his wife Emma invited mourners to donate to the Operation Flinders Foundation, raising more than $217,000 to support this volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organisation that helps teenagers facing challenging life circumstances. In 2024, after three years on the Operation Flinders Board, Commissioner Stevens became Chair, continuing to drive positive change for young people through remote outback adventure programs.
"Together with his family, Commissioner Stevens has demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership, transforming a time of profound personal tragedy into a remarkable response following the hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of his young son, Charlie. He is deeply respected for his strength and capacity for forgiveness in the face of awful loss, as well as his professional leadership in challenging times for our state," said Chancellor Hood.
Judith Leeson AM, education leader
Judith Leeson AM, awarded a Companion of the University, has devoted 70 years to early childhood education, disability services, and career development for disadvantaged groups.
As a Caring Futures Institute Ambassador at Flinders, she has provided vital consumer-focused advice on ageing, aged care, and palliative care, shaping programmes to meet community needs. Judith has also played a key role in Aged Care Research and Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA), a $34M initiative transforming aged care nationwide, serving as a board member, committee contributor, and grant reviewer.
"As Australia's population continues to age and the focus on enhancing quality of life grows, Judith Leeson AM has been recognised for generously contributing her time and expertise to strengthening the aged care workforce and improving the lives of older Australians and their families. Her lifelong commitment exemplifies Flinders University's values." said Chancellor Hood.
Stella Braund, advocate for social change
Stella Braund, awarded a Doctor of the University honoris causa, is a tireless advocate for marginalised and vulnerable communities.
Drawing on her lived experience of childhood domestic violence and sexual assault, she has dedicated her life to improving services and support for families facing mental health challenges, disabilities and trauma.
Stella played a pivotal role in establishing the National Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Helpline - 1800 RESPECT, which provides vital crisis support and counselling nationwide. Her leadership has advanced recovery-focused approaches for people living with mental health issues and their carers, ensuring access to appropriate care and opportunities.
"Stella Braund's dedication to turning obstacles into opportunities with a recovery orientated approach has left an indelible mark on caregiving and social progress nationwide, making her an extremely worthy recipient of an honorary Doctor of the University," said Chancellor Hood.
