Nancy (Nan) Giese Collection

Nancy (Nan) Giese AO OBE MBE Doctor of Education, honoris causa, (1922-2012), was pioneer of tertiary education in the Northern Territory. She was a member of the Interim Council of the Darwin Community College, Chair of its Council, and Commissioner of the NT Vocational Training Commission. Following a period as Chair of the Council of the Darwin Institute of Technology, Nan was appointed the inaugural Deputy Chancellor of the Northern Territory University (NTU). In 1993 she succeeded The Hon Austin Asche AO to become the second Chancellor of NTU and oversaw its transition to Charles Darwin University in 2003. As Chancellor for 10 years, she was instrumental in guiding the establishment of the University’s extensive art collection and fostering its musical life. Mrs Giese was also Chair of the University Foundation that raised funds for research and teaching projects. In 2009 the University Council bestowed upon her the title Emeritus Chancellor in recognition of her long service in university governance. Mrs Giese was a recipient of numerous honors. In 1970 Nan was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire; in 1977 she became an Officer of the Order of the British Empire; in 1997 she was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia. In 2003 she received the Centenary Medal and the Administrator's Medal, and in 2004 was awarded a Doctor of Education, honoris causa, by CDU.