Tribute messages

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Emma Johnston. Although her time at Melbourne was brief, her impact was profound. Emma’s remarkable leadership, intellect, and unwavering commitment to science and education were immediately evident, and her presence brought inspiration to so many of us. Her contributions as a world‑renowned climate scientist and as a respected leader will continue to influence the sector for years to come. Beyond her professional achievements, Emma will be remembered for her kindness, authenticity, and generosity of spirit—qualities that left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with or learning from her. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and the entire university community. May her legacy of curiosity, courage, and service continue to guide and inspire us.

Mazlan Mastan

I may not personally know Prof. Emma, but her contribution to the university is significant and her passing is a great loss to us. It will be a big challenge to find someone as dedicated and committed as her. RIP, Professor.

Adelene

My heartfelt condolences to Professor Emma Johnston’s family, friends, and loved ones. Her legacy of service, leadership, and kindness will continue to inspire many. May she rest in peace.

Michael Taouk

Though I did not know Emma well, it was evident Emma was a high achiever with great promise from the beginning. It is heartbreaking to think of all that Emma aspired to achieve as her enduring legacy, despite the significant impact. My sincere condolences to Emma's family.

Leeyin Chuah

Your contribution and commitment will be everlasting for the benefit of our wider community. Rest in peace

Andrew Farran

Sincerest condolences to Emma's family and friends on her untimely passing. I only met Emma a couple of times but my immediate impression was of a generous human, one with warmth, smarts and a keen interest in people. She seemed to revel in learning about about her staff, to better understand the work that they do and what drives their passion to work at the University - a pretty special trait and innate kindness for someone leading a University of this size. In such a short time she made such a profound impact on the University but, even more importantly, the outpouring of love and stories since her passing point to the positive impact she made to people and places in all corners of her world - what an amazing legacy to leave.

Leah Hyland

I had the great pleasure of meeting Emma at the Department of Zoology, where we both studied, albeit at different times. Emma was energetic and engaging and made a great effort to listen to the current postgraduate students and share her wisdom. She was a natural. Watching Emma's career develop was inspiring, and I'm grateful to have met her. She made us all proud to have been part of the Department. May she rest in peace.

Dr Athol Whitten

Dearest Emma, It has been a pleasure knowing you. You gave so much to all of us at Melb Uni and its saddens us to see you leave us so early in life. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family, friends and those you have touched deeply. You will live on in our hearts.

Peter Spanu

Although I did not have the opportunity to work closely with Professor Emma Johnston AO, I was deeply saddened by her passing. Her leadership and contribution to the University of Melbourne and to Australian science were remarkable. My sincere condolences to her family and colleagues.

Emma Seyoum -Tegegn

I can see how valued Emma has been in the community. Your skill and respect have been highly valued particularly of such a great organisation. May you RIP . You will be remembered amongst the best. As we say in our family, to your family- "We wish you a long life". It's Terribly sad for her untimely departure from us all. Best wishes to the family and my greatest Condolences. Fay Blau

fay Blau

I sat on the Academic Board at UNSW with Emma for many years and I was always admiring of her clarity, her composure, and her collegiality. She championed so many worthwhile causes and values, and she will be sorely missed, not just by the University of Melbourne, but by the entirety of the Australian tertiary education sector. I personally feel the poorer for her loss.

Scientia Professor John Roberts

So incredibly sorry to hear of the loss of Professor Emma Johnston. She was such an inspiring leader and VC for our University and to the wider community in her multiple roles in education and culture, in this country and beyond. She leaves with an extraordinary and enduring legacy. Condolences to her family, loved and ones and friends

Raimondo Cortese