Tribute messages

Dear Emma, We do not know each other in person, I only saw you in TV and have read things about you. You are such an inspiration. I love your energy and research passion. I think you’ve lived your life to the fullest. Thank you so much for all your hard work! Your family must be proud! It is really sad to loss such a wonderful person but I believe you did really well in your journey.

Dr. Marilou H. Barrios

No man is an island, nor is any organisation. The Robert Menzies Institute was saddened by the passing of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, Professor Emma Johnston AO, late last year. As an affiliate of the University of Melbourne, we deeply appreciated the way Professor Johnston supported and encouraged our work, particularly engaging with students and contributing to campus life through our exhibitions, programs and events. Through Professor Johnston, the University experienced a true intellectual committed to what Robert Menzies called ‘the untrammelled clash of opinion’ as essential for truth to emerge in the long run. We offer our deepest condolences to Professor Johnston's family at this very sad time.

Georgina Downer, CEO Robert Menzies Institute

Her passing was a profound shock and an infinite loss to the University community. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to her family!

D. Wijesurendra

Although I did not know Professor Johnston personally, she was widely respected as an outstanding scholar and leader. She clearly meant a great deal to many across the University. My sincere condolences to her family and colleagues.

Tom Karagiannis

Emma seems somehow to have had such a profound impact on so many of us, even if we had limited time around her. Her visionary spirit, her spark, and charisma.... she was impressive immediately. As a woman, hearing her speak gave me such optimism. Not only for the future of the University, but in general. What an incredibly thoughtful, genuine, change-maker. She was the sort of leader we very desperately need more of in this world. May we all keep her legacy alive. My very best wishes to the family and friends of Emma, in this difficult time.

Rachael J

As an alumnus and former staff member of Melbourne, I was impressed by how much positive change Emma introduced in such a short time at Melbourne Uni. She brought warmth and transparency into the role which gained the respect and trust of many in the university community. As a fellow VC and Chair of Universities Australia, Emma was a wonderful colleague. She always engaged constructively, intelligently and in a collegial way. She always wanted to know how she could help and really lifted the level of our conversations. She will be greatly missed by many throughout the sector and my thoughts are with her family and friends.

Carolyn Evans

As an alumnus of the University of Melbourne, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Prof. Emma's family,loved ones and friends. May her legacy live forever. May her soul rest in peace.

Libano Dias Alumnus of UoM

I was deeply saddened to hear of her passing. It brought back memories of the first time I met Emma during a scientific talk in my very first year in Australia. She was a humble researcher and an incredible source of inspiration. Rest in peace Emma! I will truly miss following your insightful talks and the remarkable contributions you made to the world.

Nilusha Perera

My heartfelt condolences to Emma’s husband and children. We were schoolmates at Uni High in the 90s and although we didn’t keep in touch I watched Emma’s extraordinary career and impact with great joy. She made the world a much better place.

Emma secomb

It was a pleasure working with you, Emma. Thank you for your enormous contribution to science and the environment.

Luisa Low, University of Sydney

A wonderful lady, taken before her time. Deeply missed.

Peter Kent

Thank you for everything you did for the students and the Uni Emma. It takes more than talents to have been the person you were and your legacy lives on in our hearts to inspire us in moments of doubts. Thanks again and may you rest in peace.

Saravanan Rajamani