ECU Alumnae Recognized for Contributions to Western Australia
The WA Women’s Hall of Fame recently inducted twenty inspiring women, six of whom are esteemed Edith Cowan University (ECU) alumnae. This recognition highlights ECU’s commitment to fostering gender equity and empowering women to achieve excellence in diverse fields. The 2025 induction ceremony, held at Government House Ballroom, marked the 15th anniversary of the Hall of Fame, celebrating the significant contributions of Western Australian women across various sectors.
ECU’s Commitment to Gender Equity and Empowering Women
ECU is deeply committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment that empowers women to pursue their academic and professional aspirations. The university offers a range of programs and initiatives designed to promote gender equity and create opportunities for women in leadership, research, and community engagement. ECU’s dedication to celebrating the achievements of its alumnae reflects its ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity.
A Legacy of Leadership: ECU Alumnae in the WA Women’s Hall of Fame
The six ECU alumnae inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame represent a diverse range of disciplines and contributions. These exceptional women have made significant impacts in fields such as arts, community service, healthcare, and education. Their stories serve as an inspiration to current ECU students and aspiring leaders across Western Australia. Let’s delve into the remarkable achievements of these inspiring women:
Dr. Dorothy Erickson AM PhD – Jeweller, Historian & Writer
A prolific artist and art historian with an international reputation, Dr. Erickson’s multifaceted career spans jewellery design, writing, criticism, and curation. Her contributions to documenting and promoting Western Australian art, craft, and design history have earned her a place in the Design Institute of Australia Hall of Fame and recognition as a State Cultural Treasure.
Lesley Murray – Anaiwan Artist and Lecturer
Lesley Murray, an Anaiwan woman from Uralla NSW, has dedicated her life to nurturing cultural pride and emotional well-being through artistic expression. Her work with Best Start Armadale helped prepare Aboriginal children and families for school while honoring cultural heritage. As a lecturer in Aboriginal Visual Art, History, and Musical Theatre, Lesley inspires students to embrace and understand Indigenous culture.
Alison Scott – Co-Chair National DFSV Lived Experience Advisory Council
A proud Noongar woman, Alison Scott has worked tirelessly for over 25 years with families experiencing domestic violence. Her personal experience and unwavering advocacy have led to her appointment as the inaugural co-chair of the National Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Lived Experience Advisory Council.
Maria Osman – Advocate for Multiculturalism
With over 40 years of experience advocating for gender equity, diversity, and anti-racism, Maria Osman has played a pivotal role in shaping government policies and programs. Her leadership in developing WA’s inaugural Women’s Report Card in 2004 stands as a testament to her commitment to creating a more equitable society.
Marie-Anne Keeffe – Community Educator and Storyteller
A dynamic public storyteller and dedicated board member, Marie-Anne Keeffe has transformed lives through community education. Her work in raising awareness of critical health conditions and spearheading communication at the Department of Education WA demonstrates her belief in the power of education to inspire and transform.
Lorna Cook – Registered Nurse and Co-founder Chemo@Home
Lorna Cook, a registered nurse with over 40 years of experience, has revolutionized healthcare by co-founding chemo@home. This national award-winning company provides chemotherapy treatment in the comfort of patients’ homes, significantly improving their quality of life.
Inspiring Future Generations: The Importance of Role Models
The achievements of these six ECU alumnae underscore the importance of strong role models in empowering women and promoting gender equity. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that education and dedication can have on individuals and communities. By celebrating their success, ECU inspires future generations to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world.
Learn More About ECU’s Commitment to Empowering Women
To learn more about Edith Cowan University’s commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equity, visit the ECU website. Explore the various programs and initiatives designed to support women in their academic and professional journeys, and discover how ECU is fostering a culture of inclusivity and excellence.
Share These Inspiring Stories
Share these inspiring stories of ECU alumnae with your network and help celebrate the achievements of women in Western Australia. By amplifying their voices, we can inspire more women to pursue their goals and make a positive impact on the world.
