Together, our global community of donors and volunteers are powering research breakthroughs, transforming our campus, and changing lives. Here, we celebrate stories of connection, contribution, and transformation.
- Legacy empowers the next generation of scholars
- University alum and Poet in Residence are collaborating to celebrate Black joy
Through co-directing The Hate Race, VCA alum Tariro Mavondo is spotlighting the racism that marks Australian history while helping to foster an inclusive future.
- Embracing international perspectives on the Alumni Council
Singapore-based Alumni Council member Hyder Gulam has pursued a uniquely diverse career. Now, he’s keen to strengthen the University’s international alumni networks.
- Experts discuss: Is AI the Future of Mental Health Care?
On 31 May, University and industry experts came together to share insights on how AI technology could provide much-needed solutions in the field of mental health care.
- Paving the way to greater female political representation
Throughout her education journey, programs like Pathways to Politics for Women helped Arts alum Katharine Nikolic dream bigger and envision her future career in politics.
- Raising the Alumni Council’s profile
Alumni Council President Jane Wayland (BSci 1994) is passionate about sharing just how many opportunities there are for alumni to get involved.
From reducing the spread of COVID-19 to achieving equitable eye health for Indigenous peoples, explore some of the ways your support is helping our researchers to make a real difference.
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Fast-tracking treatments from bench to bedside
Dr Matt Faria knows his ambitious, lifechanging medical research project was only made possible through the generosity of Réjane Langlois who left a gift in her Will.
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Helping children with cerebral palsy put their best foot forward
For almost 30 years, a world-leading gait analysis laboratory at The Royal Children’s Hospital has helped children with cerebral palsy receive life-changing treatments.
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Experts discuss: Is AI the Future of Mental Health Care?
On 31 May, University and industry experts came together to share insights on how AI technology could provide much-needed solutions in the field of mental health care.
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Giving targeted treatment to women facing gynaecological cancers
Marion Patten sadly passed away two years after her ovarian cancer diagnosis. Today, her husband Wayne finds happiness in supporting research that helps other women like Marion.
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Building global resilience: The motivation behind Australia’s largest medical gift
Mr Geoff Cumming’s gift established the new Cumming Global Centre for Pandemic Therapeutics. Here, he shares his motivations for giving to medical research and improving humanity.
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Bringing back to life an enigmatic marsupial
A generous gift from the Wilson Family Trust helped establish the TIGRR Lab, supercharging research in the field of marsupial conservation and the de-extinction of the thylacine.
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A microbiologist’s legacy: Safeguarding antibiotics to protect children
A gift from the late Dr Graham, alum and former senior lecturer at the University, is funding research that will improve the health of children globally.
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Crucial discovery gives hope for the prevention of stillbirth
Five years after donors gave to Maternal and Fetal Medicine research at the University, their generosity has led to a discovery from Professor Susan Walker AO’s research team.
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Using the eye to measure the brain
A prototype device for measuring intracranial pressure (ICP) is set to eliminate the need for brain surgery in head trauma patients, providing fast, non-invasive treatment for patients.
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Preparing for the next big thing in dementia treatment
A collaborative network of 17 Australian research organisations is preparing for the rollout of research and clinical initiatives that will inform a step change in how we treat dementia.
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Helping people with paralysis operate computers and phones via thought
A tiny device is helping paralysed people text, email, shop and bank online thanks to the work of Associate Professor Thomas Oxley, a team of researchers, clinicians and engineers, and philanthropic support.
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REEaChing for quality early childhood education
The REEaCh Hub is helping young children of all backgrounds reach their potential thanks to the Leaper Foundation’s generous support.
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Banding together to save a precious marsupial
An ambitious donor-funded breeding program has provided respite for Victoria’s endangered eastern barred bandicoot, giving promise to global conservation efforts.
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Fostering the future of bionics
Professor Grayden’s career accomplishments prove the value in collaboration. He continues to accelerate progress in medical technologies that enrich people’s lives.
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Giving life to medical breakthroughs
Thanks to the generosity of Mrs Pamela Galli AO, three distinguished medical specialists are harnessing the power of collaboration to push boundaries and save lives.
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Q&A with accelerator physicist Dr Suzie Sheehy
Dr Sheehy talks about the impact of accelerator physics, a new project that’s bringing the industry back to Australia, and the philanthropic support that made it possible.
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Medical Research: The quest eternal
Donations are helping drive ground-breaking research that will make cancer more treatable.
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Indigenous eye health in focus
Despite the pandemic interrupting plans, the University’s Indigenous Eye Health team is on track to eliminate trachoma and to Close the Gap for Vision.
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When nanotechnology and cancer research collide
After switching from a career as a software engineer, Matt is now conducting research at the intersection of engineering, physics and biology.
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How the personal ventilation hood changed the game for healthcare
In November 2020, the McMonty by medihood was approved and deployed in clinical trials across Victoria, where it was used in treatment of more than 100 patients in intensive care units (ICU) alone.
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Music therapy for dementia
Providing meaningful moments of interaction between dementia patients and their carers
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Targeted treatment is critical in tackling ovarian cancer
New breakthrough in ovarian cancer research could extend powerful treatments called PARP inhibitors to a growing number of women.
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The science of forest-mapping creates new art
Technology, environmental sciences and the arts came together when University of Melbourne alum and artist Yandell Walton began her research project in 2020, as the inaugural recipient of The Philip Hunter Fellowship.
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Advancing animal welfare through research
Established through a gift in a Will in 2011, the Chair of Cattle and Sheep Production Medicine has engendered new opportunities for lasting, positive change.
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A legacy to change the future
John Northey Ashford was a mechanical engineer, a keen glider, and a man with a lifetime of interest in new technologies.
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Improving half the world's diet
A biofortified rice high in iron and zinc is set to combat hidden hunger
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A passion for preservation
Dr Chris Murray has enjoyed a successful career in dentistry, but to contribute to a better future, he’s leaving a gift in his Will to support his personal passion.
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Jemima Amery-Gale: Vet Science researcher receives boost
The Cybec Foundation scholarship allowed Jemima to continue her important research.
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Out of Thin Air
After years of testing and development, a multidisciplinary team researchers have turned a light bulb moment into something that promises to save many thousands of children from deadly pneumonia.
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Examining Chinese education
Deyun Yang is examining the marketing practices of four highly selective 'demonstrative' secondary schools in China.
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Cooling therapy helps babies survive
Dani Forster’s work is the difference between life and death for some of our most vulnerable babies.
Students today become leaders of the future. Explore the numerous ways generous donations are empowering the next generation and how they’ve propelled alumni to where they are today.
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University alum and Poet in Residence are collaborating to celebrate Black joy
Through co-directing The Hate Race, VCA alum Tariro Mavondo is spotlighting the racism that marks Australian history while helping to foster an inclusive future.
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Noah Losa’s transformative University journey
Noah Losa marked his graduation with a unique twist - wearing drag. It was a moment for Noah to celebrate the transformative impact of his time at University.
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Recognising a career at the forefront of sustainability
As Director of Gardens at Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, horticulturalist and alum Richard Barley MBE is passionate about the role horticulture can play in a sustainable future.
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Paving the way to greater female political representation
Throughout her education journey, programs like Pathways to Politics for Women helped Arts alum Katharine Nikolic dream bigger and envision her future career in politics.
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How scholarships aided Abhishek’s university journey
Scholarship support gave Abhishek Kansakar the chance to study at his university of choice – and now he’s giving back by generating positive change in Melbourne.
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Support is helping Rebekka strive for better health in her communities
Rebekka’s family fell into hard times while she began her Honours studies that demanded all her time and energy. But thankfully, critical financial support gave her a lifeline.
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Smiles all around at the Melbourne Dental School milestone reunion
The MDS milestone reunion at Science Gallery Melbourne brought together the classes of 1993, 2003 and 2013 to share memories and celebrate each other’s successes.
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Zoos Victoria intern fights for endangered Pookila
During an internship at Zoos Victoria, passionate conservationist Nadia Nieuwhof has been researching a native rodent and introducing it back into the wild.
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Forging greater bonds with alumni and partners in India
The University’s international community is an invaluable source of strength. We travelled to India to foster connections with the Indian alumni community in September 2023.
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Scholarship support helped Reagan recover from a difficult year
Through support from the Melbourne Access Scholarship, Reagan had the breathing space to deal with grief and uncertainty in his life while starting a new chapter at the University.
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How Melbourne shaped Edward’s career and character
MLS alum Edward stays connected with the University because he is passionate about how it has shaped him. “Some part of me is made by this city and also this university,” he said.
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Meet our alumni working towards a sustainable future
As the University mobilises its community for action towards a sustainable future, many alumni have become pioneers and changemakers across their own industries.
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Exciting advertising career ahead for alum Priyanka
Throughout her studies, Priyanka dreamt of starting a career in advertising. The Master of Marketing Communications helped her succeed and establish friendships along the way.
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Strengthening ties: Deans visit Southeast Asia
In early May, Deans from the University of Melbourne visited Southeast Asia to strengthen connections and foster growth within the international alumni community.
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Welcome home: Building international alumni communities
This year, eight University Alumni Associations around the world have hosted unique Welcome events, with two more to come, to help returning graduates establish themselves.
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Connecting scholarship recipients with their supporters
Many scholarship recipients never put a face to the life-changing support they receive. At the Celebrating Student Success event, they had the opportunity to do just that.
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David’s scholarship is helping him flourish
For students facing disadvantage, exploring all that university life has to offer can become a low priority. Through donor support, David is making the most of his experience.
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A night in New York: Innovative ideas and lasting connections
On 23 March, the NYC alumni community came together for the Vice-Chancellor’s NYC alumni reception to learn new ideas and forge lasting professional connections and friendships.
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Opening the doors for future generations
Thanks to the generous support of our donor community, Melbourne Access Scholarships are enabling students who experience disadvantaged circumstances to embrace all that the University of Melbourne has to offer.
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Instilling confidence in students experiencing disadvantage
When Noelle Schollenberger left a gift in her Will to the University, she left a legacy of providing rich learning opportunities to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
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Building up the next generation: Continuing a family legacy
Dr Richard Simmie is grateful for his family’s perseverance in seeking a better life for future generations. Today, he finds pride and joy in honouring their spirit through giving.
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Empowering future Indigenous leaders
I-LEAP is providing crucial support to Indigenous students. For Nick Harvey-Doyle, it means being able to help bring Indigenous perspectives to mainstream media.
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Supporting a career change to teaching
The Wei Family Education Scholarship is enabling Dionne to transition from a career in strategic communications to teaching where she can help students reach their full potential.
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Enabling greater Indigenous representation in law
A Melbourne Law School Indigenous Student Scholarship helped Maggie immerse herself in her law studies, leading to an opportunity in the School’s Indigenous Law and Justice Hub.
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Donor generosity supports Tyallah to blaze a trail
The Paul and Donna Dainty VCA Award supported Yorta Yorta and Chinese woman Tyallah to transition from the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting) to professional acting.
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Louise Hanson Dyer: A life and legacy of uplifting artists
Louise’s life was characterised by generosity. Today, her gift in Will to the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music supports research, enriches student experience, and inspires excellence.
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The first Victorian woman in law is still shaping the future
The Flos Greig Lecture series are perpetuating Flos Greig’s pioneering spirit that transformed the basis of women’s admission into the Australian legal profession.
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Liam is building a better future with donor support
Today, Liam is thriving in his studies and looking forward to a bright future. But only five years ago, the idea of attending university felt out of reach.
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A lasting affinity with the University
Following her lifelong career at the Baillieu Library, Ms Mary Lugton’s legacy is now supporting many multi-disciplinary research projects into the future.
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Wattle Fellows: Growing leaders in sustainability
To create a sustainable future, we must foster a multi-disciplinary approach. That’s why the Wattle Fellowship is building global leadership in sustainability.
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A home in the heart of Melbourne's Arts Precinct
Brilliant artists need inspiring spaces, and the redeveloped Southbank campus is providing that backdrop for the University’s fine arts and music students – thanks to the support of visionary donors.
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Setting up students to thrive in their career
Bachelor of Commerce alum Belinda Tran describes how the First in the Family Scholarship, made possible by generous donors, helped her through her first year of studies.
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Support underpins a bright career in wastewater management
A range of scholarships, including one funded by University of Melbourne alumni from his home town of Mildura, helped carry Sam Skinner on his nine-year academic journey.
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The kindness of strangers
The Angelika Zimmerman Medical Scholarship, the gift of an alumni couple, is making all the difference for several promising young students.
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Where bold ideas are born
Wade Institute is a place for ambitious doers – like Karolina – to hone their skills in entrepreneurship. The Institute was established thanks to Peter Wade’s generosity.
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Scholarship helped Claudia achieve a family first
Claudia Cox’s dream of attending university had its challenges. The Grant F. Marani First in Family Scholarship helped her succeed through it all.
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Generosity helped Kasey find her feet in a difficult year
While the pandemic isolated Kasey from her family and proved to be emotionally difficult, the Bertalli Family Foundation Scholarship provided critical support.
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Rural vet’s passion for wildlife research helps career soar
Two scholarships – one created for veterinarian students, the other dedicated to wildlife research – enabled Doctor Meaghan Barrow to give back to vulnerable wildlife.
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Supporting our students now – and into the future
Ritika came to Australia to pursue her dream of becoming a scientist. In 2020, she was on the brink of graduating when the pandemic struck.
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Positive Melbourne experience inspires scholarship
Kate Mak is now studying at Melbourne Law School, which would not have been possible without the support of Asia Leaders scholarship.
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Giving bright minds a brilliant future
Originally from regional Victoria, Caitlin and Taylor were the first in their family to attend and graduate from university thanks to the First in the Family Scholarship.
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Standing by our vulnerable students
From emergency grants to cover the costs of critical study materials, healthcare, food and rent, to ongoing scholarships, your generosity has empowered so many.
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Building a future
The Future Leaders Scholarship has helped talented Melbourne alumna Renee Miller-Yeaman’s career go from strength to strength.
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Hansen Scholarships help students realise their potential
The Hansen Scholarships have been presented to some of Australia’s high-achieving students who face economic or other barriers, giving them the opportunity to study for the full three years of a bachelor’s degree.
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Advancing Indigenous Education
Thanks to the support of donors, Josh has been able to embrace his passion for sharing Indigenous knowledge and supporting Indigenous students.
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A global perspective: from rural Victoria to international connections
Thanks to the Dawn Wade Scholarship, Brett moved to Melbourne to study and lived with students from all over the world at International House.
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Empowering students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Grace developed a passion for Australian Sign Language when she was young. Through the support of donors, she became an Impact Coach for teachers at a school for deaf and hard of hearing students.
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Crafting a picture of women’s educational activism in Sumatra
In a time of great global upheaval, Bronwyn's scholarship has provided her with the support needed to continue her work.
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Nyadol Nyuon’s journey to justice
As a teen in a Kenyan refugee camp, Nyadol Nyuon dreamt of becoming a lawyer. Having found a home in Australia and with the support of a series of graduate scholarships, her aspirations would flourish into so much more.
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Supporting women in medicine
The financial support allowed her to meet her basic needs as a student. It also helped her arrange a training placement at a hospital in Colombo, treating women from culturally diverse backgrounds.
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Helping natural talent shine
Thanks to our generous donor community, talented law student Thea Stephenson has followed her dream to study at Melbourne Law School (MLS).
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Tyson Holloway-Clarke: An emerging future leader
To call Tyson a high achiever is in some ways an understatement.
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Bridget Loughhead: Giving rural students a helping hand
The Mildura Alumni Scholarship helped Bridget to move to Melbourne and discover her true passion for mathematics.
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Scholarship aims to empower women in the Super industry
The inaugural recipient of the Cbus Super Mavis Robertson Scholarship said she is proud to be an ambassador of the scholarship.
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Written from the heart
Anders Furze had a specific plan when he applied for the Master of Journalism degree: to graduate as soon as he could and enter the workforce.
From mentoring to roundtables, explore how our volunteers enrich our students’ academic and career journeys through the gift of time.
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Embracing international perspectives on the Alumni Council
Singapore-based Alumni Council member Hyder Gulam has pursued a uniquely diverse career. Now, he’s keen to strengthen the University’s international alumni networks.
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Raising the Alumni Council’s profile
Alumni Council President Jane Wayland (BSci 1994) is passionate about sharing just how many opportunities there are for alumni to get involved.
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Alumni Council welcomes early-career alumni
For early-career alumni Deborah Zhang and Dr John Nguyen, being on the Alumni Council is an opportunity to raise awareness of the benefits of being actively involved in the alumni community.
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A colourful night of volunteer acknowledgement at the NGV
The Melbourne Winter Masterpieces Alumni Reception on 22 August celebrated and thanked alumni volunteers who provide irreplaceable support to the University community.
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Access Connections Mentoring Program a rewarding way to give back
Participating in the Access Connections Mentoring Program has given commerce student Leon the confidence to seize professional opportunities, thanks to support from alumni mentor Andy.
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Mentor insights helped Owen land a key internship
Denis Dowling wasn’t sure what to expect as an alumni mentor in the STEM Industry Mentoring Program. He soon realised that he had great insights to share from his engineering career.
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Embracing architecture’s world of possibilities
An architecture degree set alum Sheree Proposch up for a successful global career. Now, she is supporting future architects as an alumni mentor in the ABP Industry Mentoring program.
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Mentoring kindles fresh perspectives and renewed career enthusiasm
Participating in the FBE Career Mentoring Program has given Denise a simple way to give back to the university community while gaining ongoing inspiration that is fuelling her own career.
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Johanna discovered new territory in science with the help of mentoring
For Johanna Tachas, being an alumni mentor in the STEM Mentor Program is an opportunity to give students more confidence while reflecting on her own career journey.
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Illuminating new career paths through mentoring
Participating in the MLS Mentor Program has been a simple way for alumni mentor Rachel Tucker to pay it forward, and she helped student mentee Jo Wang secure a coveted legal clerkship.
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Volunteering strengthens Sophie’s life and career
Volunteering through the Beijing Alumni Association has brought joy and new friendships into Sophie’s life and helped her connect with industry peers over her innovative designs.
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Georgina is returning the support she received
Georgina Harvey can trace many of the crucial turning points in her career back to the support of her mentors. Today, she’s helping others like her through the Ask Alumni program.
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Uplifting young alumni through mentoring
Ginny's career and volunteering amplifies young voices, and the Ask Alumni program is helping her empower more young people than ever before.
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Passing down lessons in sustainable business
At the Business Leaders’ Breakfast, young alumni heard from globally recognised director and strategist Professor Rosemary Addis AM on how business practice can help shift the needle on climate change.
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Mobilising mentoring with alumni support
Traditional mentoring has always helped students and professionals thrive in their careers. A new approach to mentoring supported by University alumni is having an even greater impact.
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The legal mentoring program that raises the bar
There was never any doubt in Pinar Tat’s mind as to where she would end up. In fact, there was only ever one viable option.
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The advantage of experience: shaping a career in engineering
Hotly anticipated and over-subscribed, it's not hard to see why the Career Roundtable is so enduringly popular.
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Uniting global communities through volunteering
“Whatever setbacks you encounter, just keep moving on. These are merely stepping stones to success.”
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Shaping futures through mentoring
Our dedicated mentoring community supports current and past students through career advice and industry insights. And for many, the experience can be transformative.
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A voice of reason guides the way
Masters student Jemma McDougall believes she hit the jackpot when Nick Sher came into her life to offer guidance as a mentor.
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Demonstrating expertise
Glenda (BDSc, 1981), a practising dentist and MDS alumna, is one of 300-plus clinicians who give their time to share their industry experience and knowledge with MDS students.
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The power of mentoring: an interview with curator Professor Natalie King OAM
Professor Natalie King has been recognised for her 20-plus years spent mentoring other women, colleagues and First Nations peers working in the arts.
From advancing Indigenous education to ensuring equitable access to higher education, our community is working to benefit society every day. Let's celebrate these change makers and their impact.
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The Place: A new approach to Indigenous collections
Dr Vanessa Russ grew up in the Kimberley. She is now leading the development of The Place for Indigenous Art and Culture, a groundbreaking Aboriginal Australian museum to be located at the University of Melbourne.
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Supporting Indigenous Knowledge and Communities
Djarra Delaney, Professor Hugh Taylor and Denni Francisco share how donors to the University of Melbourne are aiding Indigenous climate adaptation, creating healthier communities, and building self-determination through small businesses.
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Celebrating Baillieu Myer’s legacy of giving
For decades, the remarkable generosity of the late Baillieu Myer AC as a donor to Asialink, dementia research and vital veterinarian services has had a transformational impact.
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Swift successes towards Indigenous justice
In its first two and a half years, the Indigenous Law and Justice Hub has successfully defended vital Indigenous rights, influenced law reform and enriched law students’ education.
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A career at the law school: Professor Ian Malkin
After a memorable 35 years at the University, Professor Ian Malkin has retired from his teaching career, but his impact on the school and his students remains.
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Leading through vision, authenticity, and gratitude
Director of Alumni and Donor Relations Brigette Sancho shares a little about her career and what inspires her personally and professionally.
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Harnessing the power of literature
As the Boisbouvier Founding Chair in Australian Literature, renowned Indigenous author Alexis Wright is furthering the role that literature plays in influencing society.
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Gold standard meditation and contemplative practice
Recent studies show contemplative practices can be harmful if not approached with care. The Contemplative Studies Centre is helping inform best practice.
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Where art and science collide
Art and science have long been pitted against each other as competing schools of thought. But Science Gallery Melbourne is bridging this gap and getting more young people interested in STEM.
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Celebrating the transformative impact of 14 years of the Believe campaign
In this video we celebrate a selection of stories made possible through your generosity.
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Black law matters
Law alum David Bailey’s gift to the Melbourne Law School is enabling the Indigenous Law and Justice Hub to lead the way on advocacy, research and supporting Indigenous students.
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Supporting Indigenous-led social change through the Atlantic Fellowship
Across cities and regions across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, working in healthcare, education, local government and finance are a range of exceptional people who will leave a legacy of Indigenous-led positive social change.
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Harnessing philanthropic support to raise community health
Dr Garang Dut’s immense impact on minority communities and the wider Australian population is rooted in his strong sense of purpose – having witnessed the devastating consequences of poor healthcare in a Kenyan refugee camp.
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The transformative power of healthy disruption
The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity helped Michelle Steele turn a conversation with a female inmate into action to improve social equity.
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A world of opportunities: an architect’s journey to India
In 2019, Master of Architecture student Ridho Cairns was on the brink of abandoning his studies when he received the Anthony Auh Chew Kang Scholarship.
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Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness
An estimated ten to fifteen million people around the world are stateless, a third of whom are thought to be children.
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A life-changing legacy at Medley Hall
In 2011, University-owned college Medley Hall was on the brink of closure. Today, it continues to be an invigorating community where all can thrive, whatever their background.
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Giving voice to social progress
A career spanning two decades volunteering and working with Indigenous communities, Atlantic Fellow Nick Eakin's work with From the Heart is advancing the call for Indigenous Australians to have their voice enshrined in the national constitution, a right that was revoked with the creation of the Federation in 1901.
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Investing in the potential of people
Lifting Indigenous social equity is the pole star ambition for The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity, and Senior Fellows, Ariadne Gorring and Tania Pouhware, are committed to bringing community and humanity to the heart of climate solutions.
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Finding meaning in numbers: Elizabeth Salmon on data, health and hope
Administering effective health policies to a population of 270 million spread over 17,000 islands is a tall order. And, for Master of Public Health alumni, Elizabeth Salmon, this context became all the more complex during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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When a world-class capital needs a world-class arts training faculty
Philanthropists come in all shapes and sizes, but for Martyn Myer there’s only one approach: roll up your sleeves and don’t take no for an answer.
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Tailoring help for depression
A doctor takes on the global burden of depression with help from the Melbourne Accelerator Program.
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Agents for Change
A long-term project is developing leaders to tackle social inequity.
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Firing the imagination of Indigenous arts and culture
A foundation’s long-term support has helped fuel greater ambition for the University’s academic and support programs for Indigenous students.
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How the personal ventilation hood changed the game for healthcare
In November 2020, the McMonty by medihood was approved and deployed in clinical trials across Victoria, where it was used in treatment of more than 100 patients in intensive care units (ICU) alone.