Tribute messages

Emma has left a lasting impression on me as a strong and compassionate leader, impressive communicator and scientist. My sincere condolences to her loved ones.

Jennifer

On behalf of UQ, I extend my deepest condolences to Emma’s family, friends and the entire University of Melbourne community. Emma was much admired by so many, both within and outside the higher education sector, and her absence will be felt by all who knew her. Across her career, Emma had a huge impact - as a scientist, as a communicator, as a mentor and as a leader. It was a pleasure to get to know her as a fellow VC of the Go8. Although relatively new in her VC role, it was clear that she was already making a difference through her collegial, warm, and focused approach. Her legacy is enormous, not only through the impact of her science and her leadership, but through her capacity to communicate a strong, engaged and compelling vision for the importance of science, research and our sector more broadly into the future.

Professor Deborah Terry

Sorry to hear about her loss. In moments like this I am reminded of the poem Desiderata. The call to go placidly amid the noise and haste, to act with integrity, to listen, to strive, and to be kind. She must have embodied these ideals not as lofty aspirations but as daily practice. Her work reflected a deep respect for others, a commitment to truth, and a calm, purposeful presence that helped guide the institution through both challenge and possibility. To her family, colleagues, and all who feel her loss, may you find comfort in the knowledge that her life mattered, and that her influence continues in countless quiet ways.

Nitul

A huge loss to the community! Emma's legacy will stay on forever in our hearts. A driver, passionate, dedicated and supporter of diversity was Emma. You will be missed. My sincere condolences to the entire family and friends. Andrew Likaka, Malawi

MALAWI

I was deeply saddened to hear of Emma’s passing. In the all too short time she was with the University, there was a sense of optimism, energy and excitement in the new direction she envisaged for it. I had the privilege of working with her to realise a small part of this vision through development of Strategy 2030. I wish to pass on my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and those colleagues who knew her well. Vale Emma.

Amelia Scurry

I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Emma's untimely passing. Emma has for a long time been an incredible role model and inspiration to young women in science. Whilst I was a PhD student at the University of NSW, Emma was the one and only female member of academic staff in the entire department. She was the lone candle providing an example of the potential for female academic success, and how to transition to leadership roles. Emma was generous, enthusiastic and a passionate scientist. Always willing to talk, and share ideas/equipment/expertise in the pursuit of knowledge. She will be great missed as a powerful and inspirational leader in the Australian research landscape.

Clare Holleley

I was very sad to hear the tragic news of Professor Emma Johnston's passing and wish to offer my sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. Whilst I did not work with Emma directly, I particularly admired the passion and energy she brought to the University as our Vice-Chancellor, and for being so personable. For example, I really valued the way she spoke about her leadership approach at the very first all staff forum - leading from the side. This demonstrated how much she valued working in collaboration with others to make positive impact. I was also privileged to hear Emma speak at the Professional Staff Conference in 2025. Her attendance and welcome address at the conference highlighted that she genuinely cared for professional staff, which was very much appreciated. Emma's passing is a true loss for the University of Melbourne and beyond. Emma will very much be missed by all - and she leaves behind an incredible legacy. Vale Emma.

Adam Agostino

When I listened to Emma’s VC address at the University’s Leaders' Forum in Feb 2025, I came home to my family and said I was utterly moved. It felt so old fashioned to be inspired by one human, and for a whole room to be in a similar state. I felt hope and joy and the exciting shoots of intellect from Emma, and was reminded of what good we can do together. One of my favourite memories was touring the Royal Melbourne Hospital together. Emma was determined to collaborate to improve the mental health of students presenting to the hospital in distress. We took this on and would be reporting in to Emma on the progress. Emma remarked that when she was young she wanted to be a psychiatrist and all her peers wanted to be marine biologists! Like so many, I was captivated by Emma’s vision, heart and accomplishment. I felt like Emma was a woman who had retained her idealism and who hadn’t been ground down by expectations or bureaucracy. My thoughts are with Emma’s family, friends and network.

Elizabeth Molloy

Emma, you have left us too soon. You left behind a legacy in marine ecology, and as an esteem academic leader. I will deeply cherish our young carefree days together in primary school, our friendship and your kindness. I will forever remember that day when your parents drove us to the city to be presented with our science project award. It was a proud day for both of us. We had the opportunity to meet again in our senior years of high school. Your passion and dedication to science continue far beyond your time at school and university years but continue to flourish through your celebrated career path. My heart goes out to your family and children. May you rest in peace. Nhiem Lam

Nhiem Lam, primary and high school friend

So sad to hear of Emma's passing. An inspiring leader, much needed by Australia and the world. I was in awe of her ability to bring people together to work on solutions and create positive change. Our thoughts are with Emma's family, friends and peers.

Kate McCaughey

Although I did not have the opportunity to meet Emma personally, I worked with her through the many papers I prepared to support her review and decision-making as Vice-Chancellor. Through that work, I came to deeply respect her clarity of thought, her courage in confronting difficult realities, and her unwavering commitment to the long-term wellbeing of the University of Melbourne. Emma gave confidence that strong, principled leadership could guide the University toward both short- and long-term financial sustainability, while still protecting what matters most - our students, our research, and our people. Her decisions reflected not only rigour and foresight, but a genuine belief in the University’s purpose and potential. I am heartbroken for her family, friends, and colleagues, and devastated that the University has lost such an exceptional leader. She will be greatly missed.

Nicola Robertson

My sincere condolences to Professor Thompson's family for their tragic loss. The University of Melbourne and Australia has lost a wonderful leader, scientist, trailblazer, and no doubt a wonderful wife and mother. RIP.

Zeena Lobo