Tribute messages

I first met Emma Johnston when she was Chair of Science Technology Australia. She struck me as someone who had high ambitions for the scientific community, and as someone who listened carefully to what colleagues had to say and then was able to cut through the noise to synthesise a plan of action; and to follow it through. I was so pleased when she was appointed Vice Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, at a time when the University sector so needs caring and insightful leadership. Her loss is felt deeply and acutely; and still seems unreal. But as a legacy, she leaves an important example of how good leadership is done – with an empathetic ear, a clear vision and a gentle but compelling voice.

Leann Tilley, Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry and Pharmacology

Emma Johnston was a star leading in so many ways. Her sudden passing is a great loss to her dear family and to Australia's tertiary education sector. Loving sympathy to her family.

Mary Joy Gleeson

I was deeply saddened to hear of Emma’s death. On behalf of the staff and students at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, I offer our sincere condolences to Professor Johnston’s family, friends and colleagues. Emma had an amazing career, holding significant leadership roles at three of Australia’s leading universities - University of NSW, University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne. She is widely admired for her significant collaborations and contributions across higher education and research, for her enthusiasm, warmth and vision. Emma was a passionate champion of the environment, an engaging communicator and a caring mentor. Her dedication and strategic mind enabled her to make an extraordinary impact. At MCRI, we were honoured to host Emma and her senior leadership team earlier this year. In a short period of time, she developed a vision and strategy to enhance partnership and collaboration across the Parkville Precinct. Although her time at the University of Melbourne

Kathryn North AC

Good afternoon, I am a University Alumni (Class of '79 and '86) and was very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Emma Johnston. I didn't know Emma but from what I have learned of her life, she really was one in a million; a kind and compassionate and empathetic woman who has led her profession with distinction. May her memory be a blessing.

Danny Shafar

In memory of Professor Emma Johnston AO, I honor a brilliant educator, and mentor whose passion for education inspired countless students and colleagues. Her dedication to advancing knowledge and her unwavering commitment to the University of Melbourne made a lasting impact on our world. Emma’s spirit, wisdom, and kindness will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege to know her. Rest in peace, dear Professor Johnston; your legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those you touched.

Yap Kian Koon Brian

Emma has long been an inspiration to me as a scientist who used her knowledge and enthusiasm to make the world a better place. How thrilled I was in 2025 when she returned to Melbourne to run the University! In her short time here, Emma's positivity and determination to make good changes could be felt across the campuses. To lose her so early in her life is devastating. My deepest condolences to her family and friends. We will do our best to honour her legacy and take care of the world she has left behind.

Linden Ashcroft

Having heard Emma speak with freshness, clarity and open-ness about the challenges and opportunities she saw ahead of her at the University on International Women's Day 2025, I was inspired to follow what Melbourne's first female Vice Chancellor would achieve. When she wrote to me on the 1 December this year to congratulate me on my election to the Academy of the Humanities, I responded with gratitude and added a note: "Congratulations, too, on your nearly completed first year at Melbourne; you have garnered great respect in that time." And ever more briefly on 4 December she wished me well for a forthcoming conference. With this small exchange in the myriad of things that any VC needs to address at the end of a year, my esteem for Emma rose even higher. I was incredulous therefore, as so many were, at the announcement of her untimely death only 3 weeks later. I am so glad I did, at minimum, acknowledge my admiration of her qualities and contribution. She will be sorely missed.

Rachel Fensham FAHA, FRSA

Dear Prof Emma, Thank you for your dedicated service at the University. Heartfelt condolences to Emma's family, friends and colleagues.

Dr Kerry Fowler

Sending my deep condolences to Emma's family, friends and all those touched by her. May the sadness and shock those near and far feel at this sudden and premature loss, unite us towards working for a better world. Thank you Emma, for your leadership, teaching and research, vale.

Sophie Rudolph

This modest Science student, who spent some time in Melbourne's Department of Zoology long before Emma walked the corridors there, was naturally heartened by Emma's career achievements and her appointment as VC, but shocked at her early passing. My condolences to her family as well as her past students who will, sadly, feel acutely the loss of their mentor.

Fred Cook

I had the privilege to meet Emma once, as an employee at CSIRO when she was DVC(R) at the University of Sydney. What struck me was how gracious and personable Emma was as we reminisced about growing up in the western suburbs of Melbourne, her in Williamstown and me in Yarraville. I was still in CSIRO when Emma was appointed to the VC role at UoM, and I remember how excited the female leadership were on hearing of her appointment. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.

SZ

My deepest condolences and sympathies to you and your family. Although I was in the same high school year level, I was not close to Emma. Still, I vividly remember her bright, warm signature smile and quiet confidence. I deeply admire and am very proud of her dedication and contribution to science. I wish I had the opportunity to have known her better. I am sure her spirit and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Melody Lee