Tribute messages

I first met Emma briefly at a conference almost a decade ago where she made a point of mingling with the students (of which I was one at the time). I next crossed paths with her a few months into her time as our Vice Chancellor when I stepped backwards into an elevator. Once it started to descend I heard a friendly voice behind me say “are you having a good day so far? I’m Emma, by the way”. We chatted and she asked what my role was. Sure enough, a couple of weeks later she contacted me asking if I had a quarter of an hour one morning to show her the research platform I lead. This is exactly what a VC should be: passionate, and genuinely interested in the staff and students. Beyond her remarkable accomplishments as a scientist and leader, I believe her kind and genuine nature is what many will remember most about her. I felt our university was a better place for her return, and her loss will be felt keenly. Vale Emma

Dr Chris Freelance

Your presence was an inspiration even though we never met. I am deeply saddened by your loss. My sincere condolences to your family and friends and those who knew and loved you. Now, we must be resilient, guided by your parting gift to us. Thank you.

Claire Roberts

I wish to add my heartfelt condolences for Emma's family, friends and colleagues at the University of Melbourne and across the university sector and wider community. Having worked with Emma closely when she was Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of Sydney, I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of her passing. I was always struck by Emma's passion for making the world a better place through conducting, supporting and communicating outstanding evidence-based scientific research and education. She was always respectful, great fun to work with and leaves a powerful legacy that I know will inspire many across Australia and beyond to continue pursuing the ideals and outcomes she pursued with such dedication and grace throughout her career.

Tim Payne, Special Advisor to the Vice-Chancellor and President, the University of Sydney

I knew you only through your introduction to the University as the new Vice-Chancellor and through the announcements issued by your office. Yet even in those virtual encounters with your picture, there was a kindness in your eyes (even behind the glasses) and a quiet certainty in your smile that I found deeply reassuring. Like so many across the University community and beyond, I feel robbed of your brilliance and of the promise of your transformative leadership. My deepest condolences to your family. I cannot begin to imagine the depth of their loss and the pain they must be carrying. As a person of faith, I hold them in my prayers and entrust you to the heavens, hoping for peace, rest, and eternal light.

Franka Vaughan

The many tributes reflect the person I briefly got to know full of energy, insight, passion, vision and action. It was always a pleasure to receive a text message from Emma which resulted in an impromptu, robust conversation that moved the university forward with a clear next step - and a dose of encouragement to think big. I will miss her leadership greatly.

Ken Jefferd

I was deeply saddened and moved by the untimely passing of Emma Johnston. She was a trailblazer in so many ways. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to her family and to her many colleagues.

Janet Fletcher

Working for Emma was a true privilege and one of the highlights of my career. She was an inspirational leader—purposeful, principled, and unwavering in her commitment to research and its impact on society. Emma led with both intellect and humanity, setting standards that lifted everyone around her. What stood out most was her intrinsic excitement for research and what it could achieve. That enthusiasm was genuine and contagious, motivating people to do their very best through belief in ideas, evidence, and the public good. She paired this passion with exceptional clarity of vision and persuasive ability, bringing people together with warmth and conviction. Australia has lost someone who still had so much more to give. Emma’s influence will endure through the people she mentored, the institutions she shaped, and the values she championed.

Ben Eggleton

We remember with profound sadness Prof. Emma Johnston, the first woman to hold this distinguished role in the university’s 171-year history. A world-renowned marine ecologist and a passionate advocate for equity, sustainability and academic excellence, Emma led with integrity, clarity and deep compassion. Though her time as Vice-Chancellor was tragically brief, her impact on the university, the scientific community and society will endure. She will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.

Omid Mazaheri

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Johnston. Her warmth, vision, and unwavering enthusiasm as Vice-Chancellor brought a sense of hope and optimism for the future ahead. She was not only an inspiring leader but a remarkable person who has made profound difference to all. She has gone far too soon.

Jane McManus

Thank you so much for all of your contributions Emma, you will be extremely missed. Rest well.

Mick Powar - Senior Talent Partner - Technology

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Emma Johnston. My thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with her family, colleagues, students, and the entire University of Melbourne community. Her loss is truly heartbreaking.

Meri Stefkovska

My condolences to Emma’s family, friends, and colleagues. While I did not have the opportunity to meet her personally, I was able to appreciate the strength of her leadership through other avenues. It is clear she was deeply respected and admired across both her professional and personal circles, and I hope her legacy continues to be felt for many years to come.

Katie Meehan