Champion of Indigenous education made professor

Director of the ANU Tjabal Indigenous Higher Education Centre Anne Martin has been appointed to the position of Professor in the Practice of Indigenous Advancement.

This is the first role of its kind at ANU.

Professor Martin will hold the new title, as well as maintain her role as Director of the Tjabal Centre.

A proud Yuin woman of the New South Wales South Coast, Professor Martin has been a long-time advocate, mentor and driver of enhanced education outcomes for First Nations students.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt said the new title and role recognises Professor Martin's incredible contribution to ANU and higher education.

"Professor Martin has been Director of the Tjabal Centre since 2012," he said.

"During that time, Anne has transformed Indigenous education and support at ANU, creating a culture of inclusiveness and improved experience and outcomes for Indigenous students.

"Anne is a true leader at ANU, in Indigenous communities and both nationally and internationally.

"She is passionate about celebrating our history, culture and achievements, celebrating the heritage, survival and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

"Anne views education as highly important whether from pre-school or to higher education she sees education as being the key to change.

"I cannot think of a better person for this vital role. Please join me in congratulating Anne on this well-deserved recognition."

Professor Martin said she was "truly humbled" by the appointment. 

"Quite frankly I feel blessed," she said. "To be able to share this news with my 89-year-old mum and 93-year-old dad was simply the best.  

"Who would have thought this little kid from La Perouse would end up at one of the world's greatest universities. 

"My journey here has been made richer for all the wonderful colleagues I have come to have  known and worked with. The students each and every day enrich my life. 

"I came here in 2012 a little broken after losing my younger brother and a decade on I realise that my journey here has been one of healing as the support we have gained along the way has enriched not just me but our ANU."

The Tjabal Centre provides a meeting place and support base for the Indigenous students and staff at ANU.

The Director is the most senior role supporting and coordinating Indigenous education campus wide, including the development and coordination of the Kambri scholarship program.

In addition to leading the Tjabal Centre, Professor Martin has also co-chaired the University's NAIDOC committee since 2006. She co-chaired the National NAIDOC Committee between 2007 and 2018.

In 2019 Professor Martin was made Member of the Order of Australia as well as awarded the ACT Senior Woman of the year.