JAN McClelland (pictured) went from being captain and dux at Blakehurst High School to running the state's education system.
It was among a string of high-powered state and federal government administrative jobs, along with charity and other community roles, undertaken by Ms McClelland, who has been made a member (AM) in the general division of the Order of Australia.
Ms McClelland, who grew up in Kyle Bay, is the daughter of former president of the Senate Doug McClelland, and her brother Robert was a long-time federal MP and minister.
She was director-general of the NSW Department of Education and Training and managing director of TAFE from 2002-2004.
"I am really humbled and deeply honoured," she said.
"I am very grateful for the opportunities I have had throughout my life to work in such wonderful organisations and with such such talented people."
ASSOCIATE Professor David Zachary Lubowski has been recognised in the general division of the Order of Australia for service to colorectal surgery as a clinician and researcher and to professional organisations.
Professor Lubowski has been the head of the department of colorectal surgery at St George Hospital since 1999.
Adding to achievements Professor Lubowski also holds the positions director, anorectal physiology laboratory, St George Hospital and is director of undergraduate training and colorectal fellowship training at St George Hospital.