Honorary Doctor of Science
Citation delivered by Professor Don Iverson, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health at the University of Wollongong on the occasion of the admission of John Hogg OAM as a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on 17 December 2013.
The University of Wollongong began working toward the establishment of a Graduate School of Medicine in June 2003. The core of this project was active engagement by community-based doctors in the training of doctors who have the desire and skills required to work in remote, rural and regional areas. The appointment of John Hogg as Foundation Dean of the University’s new Medical School in 2004 was crucial for the successful launch of a unique model of medical education.
John Hogg graduated from his medical degree at the University of Sydney and undertook his residency at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital followed by specialist training in surgery in the U.K. John chose to interweave his formal training with experience as a rural GP and in research and remote practice with the Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition at Mawson Base in Antarctica evidencing his passion for achievement, social contribution and adventure. As Deputy Station Director and Medical Officer at Mawson Station, he was a popular colleague responsible for the welfare of 27 men and devoted to both them and the dogs that carried him by sled to explore his frozen surroundings.
In 1977, John Hogg was appointed as a Consultant General and Vascular Surgeon in the Illawarra and went on to become a leading member of the region’s medical and business communities. He served on and chaired influential medical committees and established two medically-related businesses including Illawarra Occupational Health.
When John took up the challenge of establishing the Graduate School of Medicine in 2004, he faced a gruelling schedule of negotiation and consultation with his medical colleagues as well as learning the specific rules, procedures and idiosyncrasies of academic life. John overcame these obstacles with grace and humour and became the Medical School’s chief advocate.
John Hogg’s collegial approach and generosity were matched by an intellectual toughness that challenged the norms of contemporary medical training. Furthermore, he possessed a high level of personal courage and commitment to service that was shown most vividly in Bali in 2002 when John, assisted by his wife Linda, treated an unknown number of patients; a great many of whom were seriously wounded during the Bali bombings. For their outstanding service, John and Linda were awarded Order of Australia Medals.
Chancellor, John Hogg is a perfect role model for those entering the medical profession. He repeatedly demonstrated that strength and leadership must be partnered by a deep sense of care and commitment. This commitment has been ongoing with the Hogg Family establishing the Emeritus Professor John Hogg Memorial Scholarship to assist well rounded, community minded students with their studies at the Graduate School of Medicine.
Chancellor it is my pleasure and privilege to present this citation on the occasion of the posthumous award of a Doctor of Science, honoris causa, to Emeritus Professor John Hogg.