Tribute messages

My deepest condolences to Emma's family. Emma and her contribution to our community will always be remembered and recognised. Rest in Peace Emma.

Soon Teck Kong

The passing away of Vice-Chancellor, professor Emma in december 2025, in the middle of new year's preparations, is a very tragic news. Although her period as our Vice-Chancellor may seem short, but all the contributions made by her, no matter how small, will stay in the heart of many, in times to come. Her contributions to inclusivity at the University and helping towards ensuring equal opportunities for all are her worth noting. These words may not be enough to express the quality of contributions made by the Vice-Chancellor for the entire University.

Jitesh Ahuja

To Professor Emma, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, a visionary leader and a world-renowned climate science expert whose work shaped understanding, inspired action, and advanced hope for our planet. Beyond her extraordinary academic and professional achievements, she was a friend to all, generous with her time, wise in her counsel, and unwavering in her kindness. Loved by many and admired by all, she leaves behind a lasting legacy of leadership, compassion, and purpose. Her impact will endure in the lives she touched and the future she worked so passionately to protect. As an alumnus of Melbourne University, I will surely miss her services.

Zambia

Professor Emma Johnston AO, guardian of our oceans and relentless champion for change, your wisdom will forever illuminate our journey. Though your time with us was brief, your legacy endures—through groundbreaking deep-sea discoveries and unwavering advocacy for women in science, you transformed lives and shaped a brighter future.‌

Natalie Shi

Goodbye my friend It was a privilege to know you, including our short time together on the CSIRO Board. With sadness, Roy

Prof Roy Green

I had the privilege of knowing Emma Johnstone during her time as an undergraduate student at the University of Melbourne. From the very beginning, Emma stood out and was very respected by her fellow students, not only for her academic ability, but also the connection and warmth she brought to every interaction. I was excited to see a fellow student in the field of environmental science take up the role Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne.

Dr Belinda Lovell

With sincere condolences to Professor Emma Johnson’s family. From Dr Ann Charlesworth ( née Ann Nicholls) childhood friend of Emma’s mother. So very sorry for your loss of Emma.

Dr Ann Charlesworth

I met Professor Johnston when she was Dean of Science at UNSW, during my time as a PhD student within her Faculty. From the very beginning, she was, and will always remain, a profound inspiration and role model to me, as a woman in STEM, as an educator, and as a scientist. Her presence and kindness always lit up the room wherever she went. My heartfelt condolences go to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Alessa

My deepest and heartfelt condolences to Emma's family, friends and colleagues who mourn her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and pray for the eternal repose of Emma. May she rest in peace. God bless. Sr. Delma Lamb.

Sr. Delma Lamb,

I first met Emma when she was invited to be one of the presenters on the program Coast Australia. I was privileged enough to be her producer. We travelled together to Tasmania and she shared her passion for the ocean with me and everyone who would come to watch the show. She was such a fabulously talented woman who would go on to inspire so many other young women in STEM. I worked with her again at UNSW when this time she was the Dean of Science. She was a passionate advocate for the ocean and a really lovely human being. My deepest condolences to Emma‘s family. The world has lost one of its best champions.

Iman

Although we knew Emma for only a short time, her impact on us was immediate. We felt an instant connection as 'born and bred' Melbournians and fellow Alumni of the University of Melbourne. In April, Emma sent us, in our capacity as long-standing donors to the University, a warm welcome and appreciation of our philantrophy. She spoke of embracing the opportunity to make a positive difference in the world; and her desire that the University of Melbourne will lead with vision and a steadfast commitment to values to build resilient, cohesive communities. In June, Jenny was honoured to be invited to lunch with Emma as part of the 'Vice-Chancellor's Conversation Series'. This was an opportunity to experience, first-hand, Emma's warmth, intellect, optimism and vision. We will work hard for many years to honour Emma's legacy. John Leaper OAM, Jenny Leaper OAM

John and Jenny Leaper

As Emma joins the Angels she carries her works for the people she served here on earth. Those works are the reasons we celebrate her life as she passes and her ticket straight to heaven where she belongs. She leaves behind a spirit of hardworking, innovation, people focused, teamwork and dedication. May God forgive and give her eternal happy life. Stephen Kobero Mpeka

Alumni Stephen Kobero Mpeka