Curtin University Vice Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket has been recognised for her service to tertiary education by becoming a member of the general division of the Order of Australia.

Prof Hacket is one of a number of recipients who will receive the honour today as part of the Australia Day celebrations.

She has been integral to fostering links between Curtin and overseas institutions as well as promoting equitable educational services for regional communities.

Prof Hacket has also been instrumental at a local level, despite sometimes drawing the ire of community leaders by making unpopular decisions relating to the Western Australian School of Mines.

In early 2011, Prof Hacket outlined a plan to inject $260 million into developing infrastructure at WASM’s Kalgoorlie and Bentley campuses.

Prof Hacket said the investment would allow WASM to build on growth in postgraduate and international enrolments.