A future with purpose - Donor Report 2019 - UOW
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A future with purpose Donor Report 2019
A message Our ability to take on some of the world’s most challenging
problems and deliver intellectually fearless graduates has
been significantly propelled thanks to the generous gifts
received. The University recognises the importance of these
Contents
The power of many 2
from the
valuable relationships with you, our donors, and the immense
value you place on making education more accessible for Life-changing research: 4
our students. We also acknowledge your contribution to Just a thought away
helping UOW resource and deliver life-changing research.
Shaking the global tree 6
Each gift received allows us to achieve and even surpass our
strategic goals, and have a greater impact year after year.
Generous donation broadens 8
Vice-Chancellor
In 2019, the University announced one of the largest research horizons
transformative gift to humanities and the arts in Australian
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
history, from the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation. The Improving the delivery of healthcare 10
new Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation degree aims to
Emboldening a new generation 12
educate our students on the value of how to think independently
of critical thinkers
and seek the truth. This gift of more than $50 million over eight
years, has helped UOW establish the new School of Liberal Alumni mentors give students 14
Arts, support 30 annual scholarships and employ up to 10 the edge on their careers
new world-class academics. In 2020, we welcomed the first
group of UOW Ramsay Scholars and five new staff members. Grassroots philanthropy 16
with a big impact
UOW also received a wonderful gift from the Movement
Disorder Foundation that will enable one of our Higher
Transforming Futures – 18
Degree Research students to travel to the US and work
Since its inception, philanthropy closely with BrainGate researchers at Brown University.
celebrating 12 years of impact
This ground-breaking research aims to one day help people
has formed the very foundation with paralysis to interact with smart phones, using just their
UOW USA Foundation Travel Grant
opens doors and minds
20
thoughts. It is just one example of how philanthropy allows
on which the University of UOW to collaborate with the best institutions in the world. Scholarships afford students 22
Wollongong has been built the chance to thrive
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of meeting a range
of our donors who have contributed to UOW’s ability to
and it will no doubt continue enrich society, and transform lives, by supporting our
New scholarship donors open doors
to academic and career success
24
next generation of leaders. This form of support comes
to play a vital role in our full-circle as our beneficiaries become philanthropists A teacher’s passion for education 26
and continue to encourage the spirit of giving.
vision and mission as we look We are extremely grateful to all of our donors who have
lives on in her bequest
towards 2030 and beyond. helped enable the University to continue to build on our
Stronger together 28
strengths, create opportunities, and stand for our collective
future. We appreciate the ongoing commitment of our
partners who are equally ambitious and understand our
vision and mission to make a lasting global impact.
UOW continues to be recognised as a world-class University,
currently ranked 188th in the Aggregated Ranking of Top
Universities (ARTU). In 2019, we ranked equal 13th in the world
in the first ever Times Higher Education University Impact
Rankings for our commitment to delivering on the United
Nations Sustainability Development Goals. Domestically,
UOW was recently named the top university in NSW in the
Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) Employer
Satisfaction Survey, reflecting the high-calibre of our graduates.
Each year, UOW raises the bar even higher across teaching,
learning, research and innovation and we are extremely proud
of the tremendous achievements of our staff and students.
I want to thank you for helping us prepare our future
leaders for their role in society. Your philanthropy makes a
remarkable difference across all areas of our institution.
Front cover image:
PROFESSOR PAUL WELLINGS CBE UOW alumna and bequestor, Cynthia
VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PRINCIPAL Brew, competing in the diving team
during a Teacher’s College sporting
event at North Sydney Pool.
The power of Motor Neurone Disease (MND) can strike without
warning and progress rapidly, devastating those in its path.
many
The disease is incredibly complex and scientists have long
struggled to understand its origins and progression.
BY JEN WATERS
Molecular biologist, Professor Justin Yerbury, has “Without philanthropic support we would have to
many
dedicated his life to solving the puzzle. He and his team forgo certain experiments and tools, which would limit
at the Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute our scope and impact. Essentially, our research would
(IHMRI) continue to lead crucial breakthroughs in grind to a halt.”
understanding how MND is triggered at a molecular
And Professor Yerbury’s mission has not only inspired
level. This fundamental step towards an elusive cure
philanthropic contributions. On hearing of his decision
is supported by funds raised through UOW’s MND
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
to undergo life-prolonging surgery so he could continue
Appeal since its launch in 2018.
many
his work, his long-time friend Christen Chisholm
“One of the biggest hurdles in finding a treatment was compelled to transition to a research career after
and a cure for MND is effectively delivering drugs to 20 years in teaching. She is now a PhD candidate in
the affected neurons in the brain,” Professor Yerbury his research group at IHMRI, under a scholarship
explains. endowed by Professor Yerbury’s own family.
“We have discovered a way to increase the chances “I knew straight away that I wanted to be a part of
many
of gene therapy treatments working by crossing the his fight, and to do everything in my power to help,”
blood-brain barrier. We have also identified and tested Chisholm recalls.
a wide range of potential new drugs and gene therapies.
“Being part of this extraordinary group of people
None of this would have been possible without
searching for greater understanding and hopefully a
generous and ongoing donations to our research.”
treatment for MND is incredibly exciting and rewarding.”
Many will be familiar with Professor Yerbury’s story,
many
both his resolute determination to wipe out MND and
his personal battle with the debilitating condition
which has claimed so many in his family. Though he
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
has long been celebrated in international research
circles for his work, the first of two ABC Australian I have absolutely no doubt
Story documentaries on his life, aired in March 2018, that, within my lifetime, we
raised public awareness of Professor Yerbury’s battle will find a cure for MND.
many
and triggered a groundswell of support.
Eleven-year-old April Barker was one of those With the 2019 MND Appeal chasing a target of
inspired. Moved by Professor Yerbury’s story, she held $20,000, Professor Yerbury is energised by the
a yard sale in August for potted plants rescued from possibilities this next wave of support could bring to
a neighbouring home, raising more than $1,000 to improving lives. He refuses to rest until he’s wiped
support his MND research. MND from the face of the planet.
many
And she’s not alone. Justin Yerbury’s passion and “Within the next few years we will be ready to move to
unshakable commitment to finding a cure for MND preclinical testing, but we can’t do that without vital
has galvanised so many to join the cause. Earlier in funding to continue this exciting research,” he explains.
2019, The Biggest Loser’s Commando Steve donated his
“It costs roughly $1,000 to screen a single drug in
2 time to put 200 people through their paces at a special 3
our cell line, and $10,000 to train one researcher to
fitness boot camp. His celebrity status helped ensure
perform faster, more accurate experiments using
many
the event was a sell-out, raising $6,000 and helping the
UOW’s high-powered Titan microscope. Every single
MND Appeal surpass initial targets to achieve close to
contribution can enable a vital part of the process and
$38,000 gifted through IHMRI.
take us closer to our ultimate goal.
This collective power for good has also generated a host
“I have absolutely no doubt that, within my lifetime, we
of community-led donations, from $16,455 through
will find a cure for MND.”
a Victorian Ladies Back on Your Bike Challenge to
many
$10,000 in contributions made by guests of Intelligent
Polymer Research Institute Director, Professor Gordon
Wallace, in honour of his birthday. Professor Yerbury’s To learn more about giving to MND through
highly anticipated UOW Knowledge Series Lecture UOW please contact us at giving@uow.edu.au
in May spurred further support, while a recent trivia or +61 2 4221 5757
night raised an additional $17,000.
“Every donation counts. We would not be able to do
many
(L-R) Researchers Dr Luke
McAlary and Senior Research the work that we do without this community support;
Assistant, Natalie Farrawell it’s just as important as an extra person in the lab,”
with Professor Justin Yerbury. Professor Yerbury says.
Life-changing Biomedical research by a US-based company is taking
being connected through our smart phones to a new level.
research: Just a
Their brain implant system aims to help those who
have lost control of their limbs or other body parts.
thought away
The “neuro-prosthetic” device – an electrode implanted “The research will help bring knowledge of how stem
into the brain creating a brain-computer interface - has cells and implantable devices can be used to restore
been effectively used to enable people with paralysis movement, as well as understanding the mechanisms
to perform functions, such as lifting a cup to drink and underlying movement disorders,” Newbery says.
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
operating computers, via their thoughts alone.
“There are a variety of neurological diseases and
Now, thanks to a $250,000 scholarship from the disorders that show similar characteristics. Therefore,
Australian Movement Disorder Foundation (MDF), it may be possible to adapt knowledge or treatments we
a UOW student is able to participate in this ground- identify to benefit other disorders.”
BY KEELI CAMBOURNE breaking research and thus bring back to Australia the
Associate Professor Ooi believes this collaboration is
knowledge and skills that will change the lives of those
one of the major benefits of the Braingate and MDF
with physical disabilities.
funding. “This funding enables the unique opportunity
“The Movement Disorder Foundation Medical Research for Michelle to learn from the world experts in wireless
Scholarship provides support for PhD student, Michelle implantable neurotechnologies. It will provide Michelle
Newbery, and her research project at the University of with the incredible opportunity to travel to the USA,
Wollongong. This has enabled her training in various study at an Ivy League College and to network and
laboratory techniques and science communication skills collaborate with international researchers, which would
at UOW,” says Associate Professor Lezanne Ooi from the not have been possible without this funding” she says.
School of Chemistry & Molecular Bioscience.
Associate Professor Roland Bigg, Chairman of the
In an association formed in 2014, the Movement Movement Disorder Foundation, says one of the
Disorder Foundation has provided the University with Foundation’s philosophies is to collaborate rather
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
philanthropic funding for undergraduate students with than compete.
a disability, who seek to focus their future career on
“With such limited resources, it’s hard to do this kind
driving significant advances that can change the lives
of research effectively in single isolated research
of those living with a movement disorder. This latest
institutions. And the anticipated outcome of the
higher degree research scholarship allows Newbery
collaborative research is that eventually people with
to spend up to a year working closely with Braingate
severe disabilities worldwide will benefit,” he says.
researchers at Brown University. They include Dr David
Borton, an Assistant Professor of Engineering at Brown “There are a lot of patients who can benefit from the
University and Dr Leigh Hochberg, a Neurologist, results of this research and we want an Australian
Professor of Engineering and a Senior lecturer of to be able to add to that reservoir of research
Neurology at Harvard Medical School, who is working innovation. Australia benefits not just from the link to
specifically at designing an interface that can interpret researchers in the US but it also means that if there is
messages coming directly from the spinal cord. a treatment breakthrough, Australians will be more
able to access treatment.”
“The project aims to address the Movement Disorder
4 Foundation’s goal of improving the lives of people with “The Movement Disorder Foundation has always had 5
movement disorders in two distinct ways,” says UOW’s as a guiding philosophy the saying `Give a man a fish
Associate Professor Ooi. and he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish and he eats for
a lifetime’,” Associate Professor Bigg says.
“Firstly, by using stem cells in the lab at UOW to
understand how the brain controls movement and “A treatment breakthrough from the Movement
how the brain could be ‘rewired’ as a treatment for Disorder Foundation-funded research may enable
movement disorders. Secondly, by going to the USA to severely disabled patients more autonomy in their
work with the Braingate team, who are investigating life, meaning better quality of life for them, and better
how implantable devices can be used to stimulate quality of life for carers. The University of Wollongong
movement in people that are paralysed due to spinal is a valuable part of this goal,” he says.
cord injury, stroke or motor neurone disease.”
When she returns to Australia, Newbery will spend
two-and-a-half years completing the research To learn more about giving to student
at University of Wollongong liaising closely with scholarships through UOW please contact us at
researchers in the US. giving@uow.edu.au or +61 2 4221 5757
Associate Professor Lezanne Ooi (L)
with PhD student Michelle Newbery (R)
Shaking the
global tree
BY JEN WATERS
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
When traditional models have failed, it takes vision and courage
to seek out new paths to tackling the world’s most pressing issues.
This is the passionate intent of one exceptional couple whose
significant financial gift will enable risk-taking research to bring
about systemic and sustained humanitarian impact.
The Olivier Ferrer Fund – named “The Building Resilient Communities Funds will be matched dollar-for-dollar
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
after the former artist, musician and challenge is about building resilience by the Global Challenges Program
philanthropist whose estate enabled against inequality, disaster and which this year supported projects
the pair’s remarkable philanthropic gift vulnerability in an era of growing tackling multifaceted issues including
– will support research under UOW’s uncertainty through driving antimicrobial resistance, disability,
Global Challenges Program’s ‘Building transformational change in thinking, education, structural barriers to women’s
Resilient Communities Challenge’ over policy, infrastructure and everyday empowerment, greener cities, systemic
the next five years. practice. This aligns intrinsically with entrapment of First Nations Peoples,
the donors’ determination to enable digital welfare innovations, and more.
In 2020, the Fund is calling for globally-
extraordinary change in the world in the Olivier Ferrer
focused proposals targeting: With the Olivier Ferrer Fund now
best way that they possibly can.”
extending the boundaries of the possible,
— the politics of refugee and migrant
The Fund will support projects with Senior Professor Gibson says that there’s
movements in an era of populist
a global footprint (whether through no telling just what kind of initiatives will
nationalism
location, engagement or collaborators) be unearthed. UOW’s Director of Advancement, “Philanthropy is about the opportunity
— systemic entrapment, inequality and and a strong commitment to using Monique Harper-Richardson, describes to do things that you wouldn’t GLOBAL CHALLENGES PROGRAM
injustice “The donors have made it clear that they’re
6 research as a catalyst to shift public the couple – who wish to remain ordinarily be able to do. In supporting 7
not looking for incremental change. UOW’s Global Challenges Program
— leadership integrity which values the debate. It seeks to flush out audacious anonymous to ensure the focus remains unconventional research that may
They want to really push the boundaries harnesses the expertise of world-
common good, especially regarding ideas that defy norms and tackle root on the research and the vision it will enact otherwise not receive funding, they are
and look at these core, systemic causes class researchers across a variety of
climate, at a time of crisis in democracy causes, using engaged and participatory – as inspiring young philanthropists. enabling our best minds to come together
of disadvantage and how we can boldly disciplines to lead transformational
methodologies for real-world impact. to genuinely drive thought leadership
“The donors came to us looking for address them from different perspectives; “They are enormously passionate and change across four key themes:
and transformation for humanity. We’re
bold ideas that would make a tangible Deeply engaged with the process, the that’s incredibly exciting,” he explains. courageous, and they don’t want to Building Resilient Communities,
enormously grateful, and deeply inspired
difference in vulnerable communities; donors will work side-by-side with the wait to make positive change in these Making Future Industries,
“Enabling our researchers to move beyond by just what this partnership could
they unequivocally want to ‘shake the Global Challenges team to set priority humanitarian issues that are close to their Sustaining Coastal and Marine
the scope of existing funding systems create,” says Harper-Richardson.
global tree’,” says Global Challenges areas for each annual call for proposals hearts,” she says. Zones, and Living Well, Longer.
emboldens them to address complex
Program Executive Director, Senior and select the ideas and collaborations Senior Professor Gibson agrees.
challenges in radical new ways. There’s “That they actively sought us out from the Visit globalchallenges.uow.edu.au
Professor Chris Gibson. that best address them. The first round
a freedom to take risks and engage more other side of the world as a partner that “We’re honoured that the donors have to explore the projects and find
in March 2020 will focus on research
deeply with communities and issues at shared their ideals and goals and could entrusted us with this opportunity to help out more.
around climate action, community
their source, and that’s a place from which help them bring about this fundamental them enact their inspiring vision,” he says.
transformation and the prevention of
genuine innovation and change can grow.” change… I think that’s extraordinary.
inequality and injustice at the source. “We truly believe that this will create
real change in the world, and in our most
vulnerable communities in particular.”
Generous donation
broadens research
BY SARAH VICKERY
horizons
A significant gift from two passionate and generous Enhancing the University’s ability to identify talented candidates who could
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
gain a clearer understanding into the add to UOW’s rich knowledge base and ABOUT MOLECULAR HORIZONS
philanthropists will help UOW researchers unlock the diagnostics and the pathology approaches
to the early detection of disease, the
innovative approach to research. The
University aims to welcome the inaugural A world-leading research
potential for ground-breaking research at a molecular level. $300,000 gift will support the creation of
a new Fellowship – the Horizons Fellow
Fellow to Wollongong later this year. facility, Molecular Horizons was
completed at the start of the year
Under the mentorship of Dr Shane Ellis, and is dedicated to impact-driven
of Molecular Pathology – to be based at
who joined UOW’s Molecular Horizons research, where the world’s best
UOW’s newly opened Molecular Horizons
team this year, the Fellow will have the molecular research will be put
facility on the Wollongong campus.
opportunity to support the development into practice to improve and save
The donors, who wish to remain of tissue imaging techniques by chemical lives. It illuminates how life works
anonymous, were inspired to channel fingerprinting. at a molecular level, enabling our
their funds into this valuable research to scientists to solve some of the
Dr Ellis graduated from UOW with a PhD
help accelerate the research capability biggest health challenges facing
in Chemistry in 2012, before moving to
and potential for life-changing outcomes. the world.
the Netherlands for postdoctoral research
Their personal interest in molecular at the Maastricht Multimodal Molecular To enable this ground-breaking
sciences combined with a desire to have Imaging Institute where he became an research, UOW has invested in a
a positive impact on the health of our Assistant Professor (tenured) in 2014. suite of revolutionary technology
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
community formed the basis of a vision including Australia’s most
“We have been lucky to recruit Dr Ellis
shared between the donors and the powerful biological electron
to the Illawarra and are happy to be able
Institute. microscope, the Titan Krios cryo-
to help the establishment of his research
EM microscope.
In welcoming the gift, Distinguished team with this Horizons Fellowship of
Professor Antoine van Oijen, Director Molecular Pathology,” says Distinguished The molecular life sciences are at
of Molecular Horizons, acknowledged Professor van Oijen. the forefront of scientific discovery,
the profound influence such generous unlocking the innermost secrets of
“A pioneering researcher in the area of
donations can have. the living cell and developing new
mass spectrometry, a technique that
ways to detect and attack disease.
“It’s a great example of how philanthropy measures chemical fingerprints of
If cancer is to be cured, new
can be aligned with strategic research material, he uses this method to measure
classes of antibiotics developed,
directions. This gift will prove to be the chemical composition of living
and Alzheimer’s disease reversed
catalytic for our efforts to develop cutting- material, spot by spot. This allows him to
it will most likely be biochemists
edge technology to visualise disease construct chemical photographs of cells
and molecular biologists powering
processes in human tissue. By applying and tissues, not using light but using the
these breakthroughs.
8 fundamental science to clinical problems, chemical information as a way to image. 9
our research will have real-world impact.
“We look forward to continuing this
“Molecular Horizons is all about exciting journey with the donors to help
developing molecular visualisation move the science forward. We are also To learn more about giving to
technology to drive the life sciences and excited about supporting the career research through UOW please
develop new medical approaches. growth of a talented junior researcher contact us at giving@uow.edu.au
with this Fellowship. or +61 2 4221 5757
“Together with the donors, we looked
carefully at how the gift can have the “I would like to thank our donors for the
biggest impact on the goals that are shared generous contribution they have made,
by both the donors and the University,” enabling us to make this Fellowship
says Distinguished Professor van Oijen. possible,” Distinguished Professor van
Oijen applauds.
The new Fellow position is seen
as a globally prestigious research
opportunity that will attract interest from
researchers in Australia and offshore. An
The newly-opened groundbreaking international search has commenced to
Molecular Horizons building
Improving With the state of healthcare delivery in Australia
primed for reform, the support of generous philanthropy
the delivery of
has helped the University of Wollongong to initiate
a conversation around patient-focused care.
In September 2019, the University hosted “This is just the beginning. We’ve started
the inaugural UOW Health Symposium the conversation now and we look forward ABOUT UOW’S HEALTH AND
at its Innovation Campus, highlighting to continuing to consult with health WELLBEING PRECINCT
a commitment to innovation in health professionals and patients alike.
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
UOW’s state-of-the-art Health and
delivery and improved community
“We hope to set new standards for quality Wellbeing Precinct, currently under
healthcare outcomes.
of living and opportunity for learning development, will be located at the
Heralding the development of UOW’s as we work to implement change that Innovation Campus and provide
person-centred Health and Wellbeing matters at our Health and Wellbeing patient-centred, multidisciplinary
precinct at the Innovation Campus, the precinct,” she affirmed. health facilities to improve the
event brought together the collective health outcomes for people in the
The Symposium also featured special
expertise and experience of healthcare Illawarra and Shoalhaven.
guest and UOW honorary doctor,
practitioners from across the public and
Ita Buttrose AC OBE, who gave the The hub of the precinct will be a
private health sector, community health
McKinnon Walker keynote address. As an $44 million community health
representatives, academics and students.
ambassador for Dementia Australia, she clinic - intoHealth. An Australian-
The Symposium was supported by the shared her own very personal experience first, this University-led centre of
McKinnon Walker Trust, a $1.3 million in dealing with aged care and dementia, excellence in integrated healthcare
gift donated by former UOW Vice- and acknowledged the need for significant will address preventative health
Chancellor Emeritus Professor Ken reform in aged-care living. issues and maintaining overall
McKinnon AO and UOW alumna Suzanne physical and mental wellbeing.
Following several presentations and
Walker. Their vision was to help foster
panel discussions throughout the day, the The centre will provide a one-stop
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
innovative programs, activities and ideas
participants unanimously agreed on the shop model of care, focussed on the
at UOW over successive years.
importance of consulting directly with needs of the patient and their family.
Under an overarching, person-centred diverse groups of people, who use different A strong teaching component will
healthcare theme, key topics included: aspects of the healthcare system before be partnered by research dedicated
closing the healthcare gap for groups implementing change. to transforming practice, patient
at higher risk, Indigenous health, the experience and outcomes.
Health Consumers NSW Executive
economics of ageing, building a person-
Director, Dr Anthony Brown, is a passionate The integrated health facility will
centred health service and associated best
advocate for patient involvement in deliver rehabilitation, disability and
practices, Australian health care reform,
healthcare delivery. He highlighted the aged-care services, and mental
technology and big data to improve patient
need to include those who are directly health services in the one precinct. It
outcomes, and personalised medicine.
affected, in the decision-making. will bring together a range of health
A joint initiative by UOW Deputy Vice- professionals including doctors,
“The insights that doctors and nurses
Chancellor (Health and Communities), physiotherapists, psychologists,
bring are really valuable, but the more we
Ita Buttrose AC OBE Professor Alison Jones, and UOW dietitians, dentists, pharmacists,
involve patients in the design of services
10 Executive Dean of the Social Sciences academics and pathologists. 11
the more we can help people in their
Faculty, Professor Glenn Salkeld, the
healing,” Dr Brown said. The precinct will also include an
Symposium was designed to capture
healthcare
innovative and integrated aged
insights from health leaders on the existing UOW will continue the conversations with care and senior living village. In
challenges and promote ideas on best patients and health sector professionals partnership with an aged living
practice in putting the patient’s needs first. to work towards delivering an effective provider, this initiative will see aged-
person-centred Health and Wellbeing
“By bringing together innovative thinkers care services link research, teaching
precinct, while supporting community-
we aim to create an environment for and learning on a daily basis.
led discussions at future Health and
debate on delivering the best person-
Wellbeing Symposiums.
centred care models of the future,”
Professor Jones said.
BY SARAH VICKERY
Ita Buttrose AC OBE To learn more about the Health and
Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) 2015 Wellbeing Precinct please contact us
at health-wellbeing@uow.edu.au
or +61 2 4258 3583
Emboldening a Whether consciously or otherwise, our thinking
is shaped by a rich history of ideas. In 2020, an
extraordinary philanthropic vision has enabled
an exceptional group of students to embark on an
“The cohort is capped at just 35, with students
benefiting from small, personalised class settings and
unrivalled access to academic mentorship.”
The School of Liberal Arts will also host a regular visiting
new generation of
adventure to understand and challenge history’s most
speaker program and an annual major public lecture.
enduring ideas.
The Ramsay Centre, formed in 2018 following an
The UOW Bachelor of Arts in Western Civilisation is
endowment by late Australian businessman Paul
uniquely designed to provoke profound conversations.
Ramsay AO, aims to reinvigorate the study of liberal
Made possible by a $50 million, eight-year gift from the
arts and foster interest in exploring the masterpieces
Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation, the degree
of Western civilisation.
critical
is being led by its primary architect, Senior Professor
Daniel D Hutto. “This gift offers an unprecedented opportunity to
advance humanities education,” says Professor Hutto.
“The program operates on the assumption that these
A visionary gift is set to great works from the classical period to the present “Demand has been astronomical, including for strictly
reinvigorate liberal arts education influence our thinking, for good or ill,” Professor limited non-scholarship places. We’re attracting a high
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
Hutto explains. calibre of students in the arts and humanities, and have
in Australia and equip the “One of the program’s most distinctive aspects is that
selected not just on ATAR but on a variety of factors
such as creativity, critical thinking, self-awareness,
it explores a variety of great works of Western origin
trailblazers of tomorrow. – not only written texts and literature, but narratives,
the desire to empower others, and qualities such as
empathy, humility and diplomacy. Those who benefit
art, architecture, music, poetry – in a carefully curated
from the scholarship can focus on the challenging and
and coordinated manner. We approach these great
absorbing program without distraction.”
works through the philosophical lens that ‘to come
thinkers
to know thyself’, you must examine the influences, or Students will undertake a sequential program of
potential influences, on your thinking.” 16 subjects which can be part of a double degree
connected to other UOW disciplines.
Hutto says students will learn how to think, not what
to think. While STEM and professional degrees have Though the new program has attracted indignation amid
taken centre stage in recent years, the liberal arts have fears that it would elevate Western thought and ideas to
much to offer in developing insightful future leaders the exclusion of others, Professor Hutto says this couldn’t
across a diversity of fields, from business and politics to be further from the truth. It also doesn’t shy away from
the arts, sciences, community and more. examining the darker elements of Western civilisation,
including its impact on Australia’s First Nations peoples.
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
Senior Professor Daniel D Hutto “We do not just foster a great conversation between
the many diverse perspectives within the Western
tradition. Here we also draw inspiration from
This gift offers an unprecedented internationally-based, non-Western ‘great books’
opportunity to advance programs,” states Professor Hutto.
humanities education. “We’ll relate some of Aristotle’s thinking about the
nature of rhetoric, and the difference between using
“You can’t have serious thinking on important topics an argument to pursue truth versus persuasion, to
like democracy, freedom of speech, or even the nature modern questions in the media and arguments by
of thought and how we relate to one another, without prominent modern thinkers and politicians,” explains
first understanding the foundations. Without this, we subject coordinator, Dr Elena Walsh.
fall prey to unreflective, pre-packaged thinking.” “We will also look at Buddhist philosophical logics
One of the largest single philanthropic contributions that make room in other ways for the possibility of
to humanities education in Australia’s history, true contradictions. This focus on open-minded and
12 13
the Ramsay Centre gift has enabled the rapid respectful discussion of how divergent ideas relate to
establishment of the degree and the new School of one other is deeply embedded throughout the course.”
Liberal Arts which plans to recruit up to 10 academics It’s a bold program where courageous thinkers are sought
and support staff. And, it promises an astonishingly out, nurtured and comprehensively equipped to address
powerful set of experiences for students. future complexities. Professor Hutto is energised by the
“The gift supports 30 annual scholarships of $30,000 potential for diversification and growth.
for up to five years, plus one return airfare for an “It’s early days, but we’re already sketching out what
approved international study program for each new opportunities this might create in liberal arts
scholarship student,” Professor Hutto explains. education that connects with other schools of thought.”
To learn more about giving to student
scholarships through UOW please contact us at
giving@uow.edu.au or +61 2 4221 5757
Dorothy Fields (L) and Mabel Adongo (R)
Alumni mentors
give students
the edge on
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
their careers
BY JESSICA SPARKS
When UOW students stand on Initiated in 2018, the eight-week UOW Mentoring Program seeks
to make this happen. It enhances the employability prospects of
UOW alumna and ‘community in-home nursing’ business owner,
Dorothy Fields, has been a mentor with the program twice,
“Importantly, she always reminded me to not be so caught up in
getting to the destination that I forget to enjoy the journey.”
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
the threshold of their careers, current students in their final years of study by matching them
with experienced alumni as they prepare to enter the workforce.
describing it as a rewarding opportunity to give back and support
students who want to be not just graduates with degrees but
Mabel sums it up well: “When studying, most of us are so caught
up in getting perfect grades that we forget that other things
having an experienced mentor Jointly coordinated by Emily Warren from UOW’s Alumni Relations
exceptional graduates who excel in their careers.
can prepare us for our careers as well. Being part of the UOW
team and Rochelle Boys from the Graduate Career Development and “I’ve discussed with my mentees a multitude of things: what Mentoring Program has been a priceless experience that I will
in their corner can be the edge Employability team, the Program has built valuable relationships they’ve done, where they are now, what they want from their treasure throughout my career journey and my life.”
between alumni mentors and more than 175 students. degrees, their goals and how I can help. It’s satisfying to know
they need for a successful you’ve made a difference and helped someone think outside the
Dorothy Fields agrees it’s a fantastic initiative and speaks highly
Emily says the Program’s rich learning experience enables a greater of her experience helping guide these enthusiastic students.
start in the workplace. understanding of the career paths available to future graduates,
box to succeed,” Dorothy says.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the UOW Mentoring Program and will
helping them to feel inspired to reach their full potential. “It’s an amazing thing to meet someone, work together with them
participate again. I would definitely recommend being a mentor
and see them grow. There’s a feeling of fulfilment, gratitude and
“We have alumni participate from all walks of life and all degree to others. The journey is worth it, it’s a win-win for mentor and
pride as you impart your knowledge and learned experiences to
backgrounds. These alumni have the drive to make a difference mentee.”
young people who really want to grow as individuals in their field.
in the lives of UOW students. They vary in age and career level,
from mid-level to executive-level management. Some of our “There’re also little delights, like forming friendships as well as
Dorothy Fields
14 most committed mentors are also retired but maintain strong working relationships. I’m so proud of my mentees and I expect 15
Bachelor of Nursing (2014)
connections with colleagues and networks,” she explains. I’ll stay in contact with them both.”
Masters in Public Health and Nutrition (2016)
For mentors volunteering their time, the program is an One of Dorothy’s mentees is Mabel Adongo, an international
Mabel Adongo
investment in the next generation – an opportunity to build student in her final year of a Bachelor of Medical and Health
Bachelor of Medical and Health Sciences
capacity, collaborate and enjoy exchanging ideas, setting goals Sciences. The 24-year-old hopes to become a medical scientist
and sharing advice with an enthusiastic starter in their field. specialising in human genetics.
For mentees, it’s a chance to gain precious industry experience A grateful participant, Mabel says, “I entered the mentoring
To learn more about the UOW Mentoring Program please
and exposure, increased awareness about the workforce they program to gain industry expertise from someone in the health
contact us at giving@uow.edu.au or +61 2 4221 5757
wish to enter, and a better understanding of how to balance sector. The program went above and beyond my expectations. I
career ambitions and wellbeing – things not necessarily learned not only acquired insight but discovered thousands of other job
from books or attending class. opportunities available to me that I hadn’t considered.
“Our alumni have such a positive impact on these students,” “My mentor was a supportive professional who knew when to
Rochelle observes. “Confidence would be the biggest, most present me with challenges and when to encourage me to keep
transformative outcome we witness in graduates of the program. pushing. Her advice helped me relate what I’m learning in class
We also see mentors greatly assist their mentees in broadening to day-to-day life in the health industry.
their professional networks, developing their career options and
finding clarity on a direction ahead,” she says.
Grassroots
philanthropy You can’t be heard if you
with a big
don’t get a chance to
sit at the table. A staff
giving program like
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
this gives people less
fortunate a real chance.
impact
Kim Earp
Kim Earp wasn’t a typical “Most of our causes are very local, very For Kim, a big upside of giving to UOW Cares Within the university the UOW
impact
community-based, and go directly to the is that her donations go directly to those Cares program goes directly towards
first-year university student. organisation or cause,” says Clare Rhodes,
Community Engagement Coordinator.
in most need in our community, such as
children with autism, indigenous youth and
supporting:
— UOW Transforming Futures
She was a 46-year-old “We support many local organisations
refugees. One hundred per cent of all money
donated through UOW Cares funds each
Scholarship
on the South Coast as part of our — Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
mother-of-two holding down commitment to community engagement,
cause or organisation, with no management
or administration fees deducted. research
impact
as well as a number of organisations both
a full-time job when she first — MIND the GaP (an initiative to
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
nationally and internationally.” “If we could increase the pool of those improve the mental health and
walked through the gates of UOW Cares is grassroots philanthropy
who give a nominal amount it would have
a huge impact,” says Kim when asked
wellbeing of all residents of the
Shoalhaven region)
with a big impact.
the University of Wollongong. “It’s about our collective contributions,”
about her passion to raise awareness
amongst colleagues.
— Tanzanian Teacher Training program
— UOW Library and Archives
Clare says. “If all UOW staff gave less than
impact
Once a year the University holds an event — UOW Art Collection
“I was the first in my family to come to uni, I was older, I the cost of a cup of coffee bi-weekly that’s
called ‘Coffee for a Cause’ to raise a little
was a busy mum,” Kim says. $140,000 - the impact of that is really, UOW Cares helps students when they
more money for UOW Cares causes.
really significant.” really need it, helps researchers solve
For three whole weeks, 20 cents from
Kim completed a Bachelor of Arts (with a major in pressing issues and helps sustain our
In the past decade, donations to UOW each coffee sold at participating cafes on
History and a minor in Politics) in 2009 and is now the community and region.
Cares have funded five $9,000 student campus is donated to UOW Cares. $6,000
Learning and Teaching Coordinator at UOW’s Faculty of
scholarships ($3,000 per year over three was raised in 2019 alone. That brings the
Science, Medicine and Health. As a former student and
impact
years). total raised by Coffee for a Cause since its Kim Earp
a current employee, she’s a passionate advocate of the
inception in 2008 to $46,868. That’s a lot Bachelor of Arts (History) 2009
UOW Cares program. “It’s about helping to share the love,” says of coffee and a lot of good will.
16
“Lots of small things can make a really big difference,” Kim Earp who is committed to supporting 17
minorities. “It’s just about people, Recently UOW Cares expanded to include
she says. “I didn’t receive financial support but I did
whether that’s refugees or students, eight external community organisations or There’s a growing number of
benefit from a generous employer who gave me time off
men or women, people who may not get a causes and six dedicated UOW scholarships quiet philanthropists on UOW
to attend lectures and classes. I know what it’s like to
impact
chance to come here, people who may not and programs. Donations from staff to UOW staff making an impact without
receive support.
get a chance to study.” Cares provide a regular funding stream to: making a noise. If you’d like
“It’s easy to want to give back to others when you’ve to join them please contact
Kim speaks from experience, having — Australian Indigenous Mentoring
received help,” Kim muses over a coffee as students community@uow.edu.au or
received an opportunity to have a voice Experience (AIME)
bustle past on campus. True to her beliefs, Kim gives a visit uow.info/staff-giving
percentage of her pay to support other students via the on matters she would have been denied — Autism Spectrum (Aspect)
UOW Cares program. without her degree. — Headspace Wollongong
“You can’t be heard if you don’t get a — Indigo Foundation
BY JULIE-ANN JEFFREY
Established in 2007, UOW Cares is the University’s staff
chance to sit at the table. A staff giving — Landcare Illawarra
giving program. It allows academic and professional
staff to make regular donations through their pay to 14 program like this gives people less — Strategic Community Assistance to
charitable causes and organisations. fortunate a real chance.” Refugee Families (SCARF)
— The Fred Hollows Foundation
— The Smith FamilyTransforming Our partnership with our donors inspires and
enables UOW to create meaningful change.
Futures ––––– In September 2019, we brought together donors with scholars
past and present to celebrate the impact of philanthropy
and collective giving through UOW’s Transforming Futures
Scholarship Program.
Hosted by Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Wellings CBE, the
For Nicolas, securing a scholarship means he does not have
to choose between academic excellence in his pursuit of a
combined Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics and
Bachelor of Laws degree, and continuing his remarkable work
in the community.
occasion recognised the generosity of our supporters and the “From a young age, I have wanted to help the multicultural future
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
profound effect these scholarships have had on the lives of many of Australia by tackling the cultural and linguistic barriers that
UOW students. face migrant families on a daily basis,” Nicholas says.
“The University has partnered with supporters in our “I did this initially at a grass roots level as a volunteer for the
communities for over 12 years to offer this program to our Spanish and Latin American community organisation. I’m now
hardworking and talented students, and together we have raised facing these issues at an organisational level as the youngest
more than $800,000 and welcomed more than 120 scholars. This current board member for the Multicultural Community Council
is an amazing achievement and it is the spirit of giving that has of the Illawarra. But even now, I aspire to help at a deeper
allowed us to continue this program,” Professor Wellings said. level, aiming to one day solve these issues and many more at a
legislative level.
“We have always sought to partner with like-minded individuals
and organisations who share our sense of mission, the urgency of “This is why I am a law student at UOW, a university which has
acting now, and the possibility of creating an improved society. We consistently represented strong community values thanks to the
want our donors to be inspired about what they are supporting.” help of its amazing staff, alumni and other members.
A panel of scholars shared their personal stories of struggle and “So thank you. Thank you for believing in the power of students
triumph and spoke about what receiving a scholarship meant to and believing in our capacity to make a real difference. From each
them and their ability to achieve their educational goals. and every scholar you’ve helped with your support, thank you for
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
making this wonderful program a reality,” Nicolas acknowledges.
For Bianca Hunt, currently completing a Bachelor of Arts degree
with majors in Psychology and Criminology, her scholarship has Previous Transforming Futures Scholarship recipients, Dr
been a vehicle for inter-generational change. Benjamin Buckley and Suellen Knight also shared their stories of
inspiration during a panel discussion at the celebratory event.
“My eldest daughter asked me a few years ago if she had to
attend university and I said yes and her reply was, but you and The success of this long-standing program is attributed to the
Dad didn’t go. This conversation gave me the push to enrol and collective giving of UOW staff, alumni, and community members.
become the first person in my family for generations to attend
university. Now my daughter has finished year 12, and it is her
turn,” Bianca says.
ABOUT TRANSFORMING FUTURES SCHOLARSHIPS
“I’m grateful for my scholarship. The funds have allowed me to
purchase textbooks, stationery and computer equipment, pay for Transforming Futures Scholarships were previously known
parking and much more. However, most of all I am grateful that as the Learning and Development Scholarship Fund.
there is one less thing to worry about and this is because I have A Transforming Futures Scholarship will make a
people in my corner who I haven’t even met, who are helping me profound change to a student’s life. With your support,
18 (L-R) Bianca Hunt, Nicholas Marin, Suellen Knight and Dr Benjamin Buckley on my university journey.” 19
we will invest in more scholarships for young people who
celebrating 12
In addition to her studies, Bianca volunteers at Lifeline telephone have the ability to study with us but whose situation may
crisis service and has worked with UOW’s Advancement Team prevent them from achieving their goals.
to raise awareness and funds for the Transforming Futures
Scholarship Program.
“These causes have special meaning for me, and I’m privileged
To learn more about giving to student scholarships
to be a part of it and show my children the value of helping,”
years of impact
through UOW please contact us at giving@uow.edu.au
Bianca says.
or +61 2 4221 5757
A Transforming Futures Scholarship has also helped Nicolas
Marin to realise his family’s dream of attaining a university
education. Nicolas, a first-generation Australian, is the first of
five siblings to attend university and he intends to set a high bar
for his siblings to not just meet, but surpass.
BY LEANNE NEWSHAMUOW USA
Foundation
Travel Grant
opens doors
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
and minds Mikayla Dennelly
BY JULIE-ANN JEFFREY
It’s snowing in Boulder, Colorado and “The school spirit is just amazing, Despite waves of homesickness, Mikayla Having experienced the impact the
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
everyone is very involved on campus,” she has actively embraced the required role experience has had on her own life and USA TO UOW
early morning classes on campus have says. “I absolutely love it. Plus there’s so
much to do beyond studies.”
of UOW ambassador, speaking at events
and student gatherings. Her passion for
others, her advice to UOW students
wanting to study in North America is to In 2019 a dream came true for
been cancelled. Buzzing with excitement, Thanks to UOW’s USA Foundation Travel
UOW and the region has sparked interest
amongst many of her peers at UC, Boulder.
put your hand up for the travel grant. Jordan van Berkel, a Geology
student from the University of
Grant, Mikayla is immersed in a semester “Just apply, just try, you never know …
UOW fourth year student Mikayla at UC, where she’s taking journalism, “If you want to go on exchange you need people are always willing to help if you
Minnesota, when he landed
at UOW to study Australia’s
psychology, theatre, and cinema studies. to do the work, maintain a credit average reach out,” says Mikayla.
Dennelly watches the snowfall and The grant allows UOW students to take a and remember you’re representing UOW,”
landscape and geological terrain.
Thanks to a travel grant from the
When the snow season is over and Mikayla
talks about life as an exchange student semester exchange at several major North
American universities.
she says. “Lots of my fellow students at UC
are looking into studying at Wollongong
returns home, she’ll bring with her a rich
UOW USA Foundation, Jordan
was able to gain international
academic experience, a solid international
at the University of Colorado (UC). “It’s defied my expectations in terms of
because I’m passionate about it.”
network and new ideas for her future.
experience with a semester at
UOW. “Not only did it add to my
classes, you really have to be on top of your As the snow continued to fall, this UOW
“I have a career path in marketing when skill set for future employment,
stuff all the time here,” she remarks when student was still surprised that one travel
I graduate but this experience has given it expanded my passion and
asked about the academic program. “It’s grant had introduced her to a wide network
20 me many more options to think about,” knowledge of earth science 21
definitely made me more productive in of friends from many parts of the world.
she says. “I’m also the new president of the globally,” Jordan says. It was an
terms of my course work. My journalism
“I’ve made friends I’ll keep for a UOW snow sports club,” she adds, with the unforgettable experience all made
class is very small, only 13 students, and
lifetime, I have been invited to visit 2020 Australian national ski competition possible by a UOW travel grant.”
really close knit.”
Spain, England, Brazil and other parts clearly in her sights.
The UOW USA Foundation was
Born and bred in the Illawarra, Mikayla of America,” says Mikayla who had
“Once I start earning, I’d really like to established to unite the many
had never travelled outside Australia dreamed of studying overseas but
donate to a scholarship like this,” she says. UOW alumni living in the US. It
before her student exchange. It took a dose didn’t know how to make it happen.
‘Whoever you are, your gift, no matter holds alumni and fundraising
of courage to move out of her comfort zone
“I kept putting it off and believed I couldn’t how small, made a big impact on my life. events in North America. You
and she admits to being a little nervous
afford it. I put it off for three years. And Thank you, I’m really incredibly grateful.” can find out more or contact
about the whole thing.
when I finally applied in my fourth year I the UOW USA Foundation at
“I was stepping into a totally new still didn’t believe I’d get the scholarship,” uowusafoundation.org/about-
experience, I’d never been overseas before, she explains. “I was already stretched the-uow-usa-foundation
never travelled far from home before,” she paying rent, bills, running a car and
recollects about landing in Colorado not working three or four jobs.”
knowing anyone.Scholarships Juliet Gobran can thank her school’s career adviser for his
persistence when it came to tips on tackling a university degree.
afford students “He pushed us all as much as he could
to apply for scholarships but I was still a
bit reluctant at first because it seemed a
lengthy process,’’ she recalls.
“It can get pretty tough without some sort
of support, especially if you live a long
way away from the university and you’re
relying on maintaining hours at a part-
time or full-time job. I’ve seen friends in
“I have been able to stay living in
Wollongong and continue flourishing in my
studies – maintaining excellent grades of
which I am proud. I have also been able to
keep working and maintaining a healthy
the chance
In the end, UOW creative arts and computer
this situation go into hibernation during social life and positive wellbeing. I can
science student secured two scholarships –
exam time so they can cram,” she says. confidently say this is solely thanks to you.”
one from Westpac Scholars Trust and one
University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong
from UOW which, when combined, give her “And for all of us, there is the HECS debt Matthew went on to say that, without the
financial and professional support until she mounting up at the back of our mind.” support provided through the scholarship,
graduates in 2022. he would have had to terminate his
Westpac’s recent University Students
studies, which would have de-railed his
to thrive
Juliet, now 19 and in her second year, and Personal Finance Report, based on a
professional ambitions.
says the scholarships have made a world survey of 1,000 respondents, found that
of difference to her overall university one in five students juggles full-time work “I will truly never forget the direct
experience. and full-time study. positive impact you have had on my life
during my tertiary education, and as I
“I started working part-time jobs quite More than half of all students manage
come closer to embarking on the next
young and thought it would be enough to part-time or casual employment while
chapter of my career.”
support myself through university but, about 30 per cent survive on an income of
like a lot of other people, I didn’t realise between $200 and $400 a week. The Living Learning Trust has renewed
BY MICHELE TYDD how hard it can be for students to manage its pledge to help other students like
Since it was established in 2015, UOW’s
financially and still have what most of us Matthew over the next five years.
Living Learning Trust has committed
consider a balanced, normal life,” she says.
$250,000 for scholarships that Matthew and Juliet align with the 61 per
Juliet receives $5,000 per year from support students in need as well as the cent of students, identified in Westpac’s
the Westpac Young Technologists academically gifted. They provide not only student affordability report, who believe
Donor Report 2019
Donor Report 2019
Scholarship and another $10,000 from financial help but also the convenience of their scholarships have improved their
the UOW Research and Innovation Work living in UOW student accommodation, finances.
Integrated Learning Scholarship. which, as UOW data has shown, gives an
“Knowing somebody is believing and
academic advantage.
“I still have part-time jobs but the investing in you inspires you to achieve
scholarships ease most of the financial The Living+Learning Partners Residential the best results, and for me that has been
burden and leave me plenty of time to Equity Scholarship has proved a godsend just as important as the financial help,”
focus on my studies.” for Matthew Gadenne. The Bachelor of says Juliet.
Bio-nanotechnology (honours) student
Juliet understands many students are not “The Westpac Scholars Trust networking
has overcome many personal obstacles
so fortunate. events are amazing because I’m constantly
to achieve academic success, including
meeting other recipients who are
severe anxiety and depression in 2018 due
motivated and engaged. With every event
to external pressures.
I attend my confidence to talk about what
In 2019, Matthew received $15,000 to I’m doing at university grows and grows.”
assist with the first year of his campus
22 Knowing somebody is accommodation, enabling him to live
Juliet’s goal is to eventually combine 23
her two streams of study in a career that
believing and investing independently to recover, and providing
makes a difference.
him with the security of comfortable
in you inspires you to student housing. “Technology is the future so wherever I
achieve the best results, land, I want to be doing something that
In a letter of appreciation to the Trust,
and for me that has Matthew wrote:
brings about positive change,” she says.
been just as important “I came to apply (for the scholarship) at
as the financial help. a very dark time and your philanthropy
To learn more about giving
has proved important – leaps and bounds
through UOW please contact us
beyond what I expected.
at giving@uow.edu.au or
+61 2 4221 5757
Juliet GobranYou can also read
