An Honorary Doctor of Letters degree has been awarded to the University of Notre Dame Australia’s founding Governor Peter Prendiville for his exceptional contribution to the University since its inception.
The Honorary Degree was conferred on Mr Prendiville at a special ceremony last night at Notre Dame’s Fremantle Campus.
It was also announced that the study centre in the new Fremantle Student Hub would be named The Peter Prendiville Study Centre in recognition of his contributions to Notre Dame, the Catholic Church and the wider community.
In addition to serving as Notre Dame’s Governor, Mr Prendiville was a Trustee from 1993 until 2024, a Director from 2005 until 2017, Deputy Chancellor from 2011 until 2014, Acting Chancellor from 2015 to March 2016 and Chancellor between April 2016 and December 2017.
As the Archbishop of Perth’s nominee on the Board of Trustees, he has been fundamental in maintaining a strong relationship with the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth.
Notre Dame’s Chancellor, The Hon. Christopher Ellison, said Mr Prendiville had been instrumental in shaping the vision for the University’s Fremantle, Sydney and Broome campuses over many years.
“For more than three decades, Peter has provided leadership, professional advice, philanthropy and an unwavering personal commitment to the Objects of the University,” he said.
“His example is an inspiration to us all to live with faith, purpose, and service to others.”
Mr Prendiville’s career as a successful businessman spans over 45 years, during which he has owned and operated more than 40 hotels, roadhouses, vineyards and fuel stations.
He is a former Chair of Tourism WA, and in 2023 was awarded the highest individual honour in the WA tourism industry – the Sir David Brand Medal – in recognition of his contribution to the industry.
Mr Prendiville has previously been named West Australian of the Year in the business category and Australia’s Champion of Entrepreneurship for the Western Region in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year National finals.
He has been Deputy Chair of St John of God Health Care since 2012 and his support for important joint medical research between St John of God Hospital and Notre Dame has helped change lives through research and teaching.
Notre Dame is proud of its long and profound connection with Mr Prendiville, and thanks him for his support and guidance over the decades.