Dr Rae was awarded the fellowship in a ceremony presided over by University of Sydney Pro-Chancellor, Kate McClymont AM.
A dedicated sports physician, Dr Rae began her career in medicine as a student in the University’s Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery double degree. After graduating, she completed her medical fellowship in Sports Medicine at the Australasian College of Sport and Exercise Physicians, where she received the College Medal for best performance in the fellowship examinations.
With a passion for ensuring student athletes are well supported and able to thrive, Dr Rae has worked as club doctor for several University sports and fitness teams over the years. For over 12 years, she was the principal sports physician for the University’s Football Club, as well as working as team doctor for the Sydney University Sandpipers during the National Netball League and the Sydney University Flames during the National Basketball League.
In 2015, Dr Rae’s dedication to the University’s sports and fitness community was recognised with a University Gold from the Sydney University Football Club. As a dual University Gold recipient – having won her first University Gold in 2000 – she has continued to serve as a member of the Blues and Gold Association Committee for the past 5 years.
A strong advocate for the wellbeing of University sportspeople, Dr Rae continues to be of service to students as a sport and exercise physician for the Sydney Uni Sport and Fitness’ Elite Athlete Program.
Fostering links between all areas of the University, she is also involved with the Faculty of Medicine and Health and has developed a program that allows University of Sydney physiotherapy students direct access to the University's Sport and Fitness clubs so they can gain real-life, practical sports medicine experience.
Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the wider community or who have achieved exceptional academic or creative excellence. Dr Katherine Rae has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship.