Australian journalist Patricia Karvelas has been appointed as an Honorary Professor at RMIT’s School of Media and Communication.
The appointment is in recognition of her outstanding contribution to journalism education at her alma mater, and Karvelas says it gives her “great pride” to return to RMIT and “take up this honorary professorial role”.
“I believe journalism has never been more important and I hope to be able to provide leadership for the country’s future journalists,” she says.
Beginning her professional career at the ABC and SBS 20 years ago, Karvelas has since worked across all mediums within the Australian media landscape.
Currently, she’s the presenter of ABC Radio National’s agenda-setting RN Breakfast and co-host of the Party Room podcast.
“Patricia is one of the country’s most respected journalists,” said the Dean of RMIT’s School of Media and Communication, Professor Lisa French.
“She is a leader in broadcasting – which is also one of RMIT’ strengths – and has a reputation as a passionate ally for her work with Indigenous Australians,” she said. “We are pleased and proud to welcome her as one of our distinguished Honorary Professors.”
French added that Karvelas’ outstanding skills will greatly contribute to the journalism program’s teaching, learning, industry partnerships and research.
Over the past five years, Karvelas has supported the University’s journalism program on a range of projects such as working with students on national curriculum resources for political reporting and hosting public events to share her insights and experiences of working in the industry.
As an Honorary Professor, Karvelas will build on this existing engagement with RMIT and continue to work with students and staff in various capacities.
She’ll be giving a public lecture on Thursday 9 March at The Capitol to mark the beginning of her honorary professorship.