Kim Jackson Receives Honorary Doctorate from ANU: Celebrating a Leader in Technology and Women in Engineering
Kim Jackson was recently honored with an Honorary Doctor of Letters from the Australian National University (ANU) for her significant contributions as an investor in technology and infrastructure, as well as her advocacy for women in technology and engineering.
A Role Model for Women in Engineering
Jackson, an alumna and executive leader, is considered a role model for women entering engineering and investment sectors. Her commitment to improving access to education in STEM fields is exemplified by the establishment of the Kim Jackson Scholarship, designed to enhance opportunities for emerging leaders.
Honorary Doctorate Award Ceremony
The honorary doctorate was awarded during ANU’s graduation ceremonies, held at Llewellyn Hall on January 30, 2026, where she addressed graduates from the ANU College of Systems and Society. ANU typically confers honorary doctorates to individuals demonstrating exceptional scholarship, citizenship, or service.
Joining a Notable Roster
Through this honor, Jackson joins a notable roster of Australians, including Sam Mostyn, Quentin Bryce, Kevin Rudd, Ken Henry, and Robert French. Reflecting on her educational background at ANU, where she obtained a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and a Bachelor of Commerce, Jackson acknowledged the institution’s role in her personal and professional development, emphasizing its influence on her problem-solving skills.
Extensive Professional Experience
Jackson’s professional experience is extensive, spanning engineering, infrastructure, investment banking, funds management, and venture capital. She co-founded Skip Capital and the Skip Foundation, which prioritize support for founders, technologies, and infrastructure initiatives with lasting impacts.
Inspiring Graduates
In her address, Jackson encouraged graduates to redefine success beyond titles and accolades, advocating for a positive influence on others. She emphasized the importance of contributing to meaningful projects and uplifting others along the way, reflecting the principles behind the Kim Jackson Scholarship. Notably, the first recipient of the scholarship, Kayleigh Sleath, graduated at the same ceremony and shared her gratitude for the opportunities it provided.
Impact of the Scholarship
Since the inception of the scholarship in 2019, the representation of female students in ANU’s undergraduate engineering program has risen to 27 percent.
Acknowledgment from ANU Leadership
Professor Rebekah Brown, Interim Vice-Chancellor and President of ANU, commented that the honor bestowed upon Jackson acknowledges her significant achievements and dedication to promoting equity in education. She highlighted that celebrating Jackson during the inaugural graduation of the Kim Jackson Scholar is particularly fitting.
Conclusion of the Speech
In the conclusion of her speech, Jackson urged graduates to recognize their passions, build confidence in their abilities, and measure their success by their impact on others. She expressed hope that the graduates would approach their futures with intention, advocating for the pursuit of meaningful and challenging paths.
Source: Australian National University News
