Helen Quinn (THP) delivered the graduation address at the University of Melbourne in early March, where she was awarded a Doctor of Sciences (honoris causa). The honorary degree is her second; she was awarded a similar degree by Notre Dame in 2002. Quinn began her studies at Melbourne in 1960, transferring to Stanford in 1962 to finish her bachelor’s and pursue a PhD. She began her address commenting that “45 years to get a degree from Melbourne University must be some kind of record.”

While in Australia, Quinn toured the country as the Women in Physics Lecturer. The lectureship, sponsored by the Australian Institute of Physics, is intended to encourage young girls to study science. During the month-long tour, she made more than 25 appearances including public lectures, colloquia, radio interviews and talks to high school students.
 (Photo courtesy of Helen Quinn)