Tribute messages

I was very sorry to learn of Professor Johnston’s passing. Her academic and other achievements were astounding and inspiring, yet she was so humble; I also admired her willingness to happily speak to anyone on campus, and her wonderful photography. When I listened to Professor Johnston speak throughout last year, I felt she was leading a new chapter for the University, one with positive energy and hope. She leaves behind a sense of enormous promise, and she will be remembered with respect. My thoughts are with her family and friends, as well as those who worked closely with her.

Nilmini Jayasuriya

I didn’t know Professor Emma Johnston personally, but I have always admired her. We were both connected with UNSW and the University of Melbourne, and I felt her influence in both places. As a woman in STEM, her strength and leadership meant a lot to me. My thoughts are with her family. She will continue to inspire many of us.

Lu Wang

Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Emma personally, I was deeply moved by the times I heard her speak. Her words carried conviction, warmth and a profound sense of purpose. Her passion and leadership were felt, and her influence extended far beyond the room. She leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, and I am grateful to have been touched by her words and her vision.

Jo

The late Vice-Chancellor Emma Jonston had been with the University for just over 10 months, but she left an incredible work throughout her short leadership. Her excellent leadership is excellently remarkable. Condolence to the family of the late Vice- Chancellor Emma Johnston.

Del

Hi Emma, May you rest in peace. Although I didn’t have much opportunity to know you personally, your speech at the Professional Staff Conference deeply touched me and truly reflected your dedication to the marine ecosystem.

HZ

It is heartbreaking to lose such an exceptional, authentic and visionary leader, whose passion and presence touched so many lives. Taken far too young, Emma will be dearly missed by many though her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and endure. With deepest sympathy, my thoughts and prayers are with Emma's family, friends and all those close to her, at this time of deep sadness.

Dot

My deepest condolences to Emma’s family, friends, and close colleagues. I had the immense privilege of working with Emma to create Strategy 2030. In my brief interactions with her, her clear leadership, sharp intelligence and genuine commitment to our purpose and community stood out. As a leader, scientist, and remarkable woman, she continues to inspire both my work and my belief in the impact we can create for society. Her loss is profound, and she will be greatly missed.

Simone Briggs

There are leaders who make you feel you are in good hands just by their aura, the warmth and reassurance they exude with their smile, their mere presence in the room. Emma was that kind of leader. She was inspiring. It was heartbreaking to hear of her passing. I felt we lost so much opportunity to learn from her and be led by her. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Marissa Viray-Carlos

My heartfelt condolences to Emma's family. Emma was an exceptional scientist and an inspirational leader. Her impact on those around her was profound. She will be deeply missed.

Michelle Andrews Luke

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emma Johnston AO FAA FTSE. My heartfelt condolences go to her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Although I did not have the opportunity to meet Professor Johnston in person, I recognise the weight of the role she carried and the challenges inherent in leading a university in such complex times, and in the face of very privately looking after her health. On behalf of the Department of Infrastructure Engineering, I extend our sincere condolences. My family and I will keep her in our prayers and wish her peaceful rest.

Prof Guillermo A. Narsilio - Head of Infrastructure Engineering

As our first woman VC, I followed Prof Emma Johnston's career and impact at the University with great interest and admiration. An impressive leader and effective communicator indeed, but more so, a wonderful and compassionate human. Having only the opportunity to meet her briefly, it was profound and meaningful just as many of Emma's interactions have been. Emma's passing is a great loss, for her family and loved one's first, and our University, community and society more broadly. She will be sadly missed by all.

Professor Fiona Dobson

I was saddened to hear of Emma's passing and while I never meet her, everyone who did said what a warm and intelligent person she was. My condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.

Chris