Honorary degree for Monash Esquire Bedell
Brian Corless received his honorary Doctor of Laws in December 2013.
The degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa has been conferred on Brian Corless by the University for his extraordinary service to both the secondary and higher education sectors in Victoria over the past fifty years.
Dr Corless received the degree at a ceremony on 18 December last year, when he was presented to the Chancellor by President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Ed Byrne.
Dr Corless' career in education began at Melbourne High School where he taught from 1960 to 1989. His dedication and skill as a teacher are remembered by generations of students and recognised by his designation as a Distinguished Teacher of the School. During his time at the school he was awarded a prestigious International Teaching Fellowship and authored the English grammar textbook Formal English published by ANU Press.
As well as his extraordinary commitment to his formal duties as a teacher at the school, he was heavily involved in extracurricular activities and acted as an officer of the school Cadet Unit, coordinating all school ceremonial activities. He continues to support and assist the school to this day.
In his capacity as Esquire Bedell with Monash University since 1993, he has continued to demonstrate his inclination to go above and beyond the call of duty. While nominally a part-time appointment he has made himself available at all times to coordinate graduation ceremonies in Australia and overseas. His meticulous planning and attention to detail have ensured that all Monash students and their families experience a memorable graduation day.
His in-depth study of the historical Coat of Arms of the University, carried out in his own time, led to the amendment of the University testamur and redesign of the University flag to reflect the proper Coat of Arms, originally approved in 1958. The redesigned flag now flies at every Monash campus around the world.
The ceremony also recognised his longstanding involvement with the Anglican Church of Australian through St George's Parish, Malvern, where he serves in voluntary capacity as Secretary to the Parish Council, as Parish Archivist, and as Lay Assistant in Worship, where he is in the process of writing a history of St George's Church.
Dr Corless has been appointed as an Honorary Associate Professional in the Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor.