About Beryl Nashar
About Professor Beryl Nashar AO OBE
Professor Beryl Nashar AO, OBE was a pioneer for women in STEMM and one of the University of Newcastle's founding figures. Born in Maryville in 1923 and educated locally, she was the first in her family to attend university.
An outstanding student, she graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Sydney, topping her class in geology each year of her undergraduate degree and receiving the University Medal in Geology.
Her trailblazing achievements continued throughout her career. She was the first woman in Australia to win a Rotary Foundation Fellowship and earned Australia’s first PhD in geology from the University of Tasmania.
Joining Newcastle University College in 1955, Professor Nashar rose to become the University’s Foundation Professor of Geology in 1965 and, in 1969, the first female Dean of Science at any Australian university. Publishing four books and 30 research papers, her distinguished career was matched by her advocacy for women’s participation in science and education.
Professor Nashar’s contributions were also recognised with appointments as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.