Katharine Massam appointed Professor of the University

Congratulations to Professor Katharine Massam, appointed a Professor of the University of Divinity by the University Council on 10 November 2021. Professor Massam is currently the Coordinator of Studies in History and Research Coordinator at Pilgrim Theological College. She is noted for her outstanding contribution to Learning and Teaching, Research, and Leadership in the Academy.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Sherlock, said that:

Professor Massam is an outstanding historian of religion known for her creativity and collaboration. In her teaching and research, she has a rare ability to create community through history, drawing out the stories that make us who we are in new and surprising ways. It is a great delight to share in this recognition of her rich contribution to theology, spirituality and history at the University of Divinity and in many other spheres.”

About the appointment, Professor Massam said:

This is a wonderful encouragement. I’m grateful to colleagues at Pilgrim, across the university community, and in wider research networks (including family and friends who read things and debrief the odd occasion) as well as inspiring students from all sorts of contexts. I’m honoured and looking forward to the work we’ll continue to do together.”

 The citation for the appointment reads:

Professor Katharine Massam is an outstanding teacher of Church History and Spirituality, known for her innovative methods and inclusive manner, and inviting students to engage in learning with spiritual depth as well as academic excellence. For more than twenty years she has been a deeply appreciated colleague and mentor at Pilgrim Theological College and across the University of Divinity, enriching the University community through her engagement with both historical scholarship and contemporary culture. She has contributed significantly to the work of the Academic Board in encouraging teaching excellence, and has played a leading role in the development and success of the Australian Collaborators in Feminist Theologies. She led the development of a graduate studies program within the New Norcia Institute for Benedictine Studies, in Western Australia. Professor Massam’s most recent book, A Bridge Between: Spanish Benedictine Missionary Women in Australia, has been received with wide scholarly acclaim and was shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s History Awards Australian History Prize.”