Tribute messages

Emma Johnston has been an inspiration to me since I first knew her in student politics at the University of Melbourne in the 1990s. A born leader, and the kind of leader I want to be. Her appointment as VC gave me hope for the higher ed sector. What an unthinkably terrible loss to her beautiful family. Her legacy will live on for so many of us who were inspired by her achievements, her drive, her love for science and education, her moral compass, and her kindness.

Professor Emma Kowal, Deakin University

I came to know Emma after I was introduced to her by Robyn Slogget during the launch of thr Robert Cripps Cultural Research Institute in Melbourne in 2025. Her speech to support Cultural Heritage conservation left me in awe of the woman. On behalf of the Gari family,the extended Gari Gini family,the Vegota clan,Kwalimurubu village and the Sinaugoro tribe of Rigo,I send our condolences to Emma"s immediate family,her extended family her colleagues,friends and to the University of Melbourne. "Tobagai,BARAU na bene narimu gemu iago iago ai" In my Sunaugoro language,it means, "My sister,May the LORD look after you in your journey" Evare Gari Papua New Guinea National Museum And Art Gallery,Port Moresby

Evare Gari

Emma was an inspiration, to me as to many others. Passionate, dedicated, thoughtful, high integrity while always being real and having time for everyone. The world has lost someone truly extraordinary.

Lyria Bennett Moses

My sincere condolences to Emma's family and loved ones. May she be remembered for the positive impact she had on those around her.

Sue Yang

It is with the greatest sadness that we learn of the passing of our Vice-Chancellor, Emma Johnston. Amongst her many attributes that will be missed, I greatly appreciate her kindness and friendliness, as well as her concern for others. My sincere condolences to her family.

John Hajek

I knew Emma from several interactions in our shared field of ecology, and at the Academy of Science. Emma was always willing to step forward and be counted - to speak for nature, for people, for important issues. She was a pleasure to talk to and work with. She was so adept at summarising the important issues and finding a way ahead. I greatly admired her as a scientist, a leader, and a person - for her integrity, her selflessness and her positive attitude. The world has lost her brilliance, and I'm so sad for that. But also very mindful of her family who have lost a treasure. My deepest condolences to you all.

Jane Elith

My sincere condolences to Emma's family, friends and close colleagues. It is hard to imagine that Emma has only been in the role since 2025, her personality, personal approach and dedication came through so strongly from the start. It is not surprising that so many people around Australia have responded to the loss with personal stories, but it is remarkable to leave such a positive "footprint". I was struck by the way she held the room, not by being loud or with sweeping promises, but calm, focused and with insights from nature.

Associate Professor Femke Buisman-Pijlman

As Chair of the Melbourne Theatre and as donor to the University I was getting to know Emma. She impressed me in so many ways: steadiness, incision, balance. And personally I simply enjoyed her warmth and good humour. I am deeply shocked by her untimely passing and feeling it quite deeply. I have a sense of a friendship cut short and certainty around contributions not completed.

Martin Hosking

I had the privilege of working with Emma during her time as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of Sydney. She was a leader who was deeply passionate about research, the environment, and excellence. Always calm and approachable, genuinely kind yet quietly strong, Emma led with integrity and purpose. She was an inspiration to me, the kind of female leader I aspired to be. While her passing is an immeasurable loss, I promised myself to carry forward her legacy: to lead with kindness, strive for excellence, and, as she encouraged me, to “take risks.” Her advice to me in her fairewell party was "take the risk B"" :) My heart goes out to her family and friends. The loss of a mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend is beyond words.

The University of Sydney

With deep sadness, I pay tribute to Professor Emma. Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to students transformed the University of Melbourne and enriched our community. Her legacy will long endure. My heartfelt condolences.

Emma Song

I had the privilege of working with Emma on a Group of Eight Universities report I wrote on lifting national R&D investment. It was great to receive her insights and encouragement. Emma will be missed by so many people and condolences to her family.

Dr Philip Chindamo

I had the privilege of getting to know Emma in the months leading up to her appointment as Vice-Chancellor at the University of Melbourne. She was an extraordinary individual whose generosity of spirit, humility, and gracious manner left a lasting impression. Her warmth and respectful demeanour were a joy to all who encountered her. My deepest condolences go to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Jason Murdoch