Tribute messages

I never met Emma but admired her work from afar, including in the State of Environment report. Condolences to all who were close to her, and to all in the Unimelb community.

Prof Lesley Head

I write with such sadness on the death of our wonderful VC Emma Johnston AO. Emma had such vibrance and passion for the University of Melbourne, our students, our learning and our research. On a local note, it was great that Emma made the time to visit International House where we shared lunch, a tour and chat with students about our IH community. There was such a buzz from Executive UoM staff speaking about the energy and optimism that Emma had brought to the university: her strategy, her leadership of ‘walking beside’ others, her belief in people and her seemingly never-ending ideas and enthusiasm. Emma was an inspiration to me: her openness, her energy and her long-term belief in and support for women. Rest in Peace, Emma.

Deborah Seifert

It was heartbreaking to learn of the passing of our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emma Johnston, a truly inspiring leader. Even for those of us who didn’t meet her personally, the positive impact she made across the University in such a short time, was profound and deeply felt by so many. The nationwide outpouring of gratitude from everyone, speaks volumes about the difference she made and the legacy she leaves behind. Sending my heartfelt condolences to her partner, children and family at this incredibly difficult time.

Kris Vukusic

Firsts matter. As Vice-Chancellor, Emma Johnston showed that it was possible to do enduring things in new and better ways. She nudged the lexicon from 'them' to 'us', placing people at the heart of her Strategy 2030 blueprint. She looked up and outward at a world she loved. The loss is unimaginable for her family, friends and students, but her legacy lives on in the work that continues in her name. She envisioned a resilient university; it is now up to those of us who stay behind to help contribute to that vision. Vale.

Foong Ling Kong

While I didn't have the privilege to know Emma personally, I was in awe of her from the first moment I heard her speak. She was an incredibly humble and personable leader - someone that took her role seriously but also led with her heart. I was incredibly shocked and saddened to hear of her passing and send my sincere condolences to her family and friends.

Keshia Warland

I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Professor Johnston, our first female VC and, judging by the many tributes, an exceptional leader, possessing intellect, curiosity and character. My sincere condolences to her family, friends and many colleagues.

Prof Rosemary Purcell

Professor Johnston had achieved remarkable advances in her career before starting as VC. She promised to do and achieve even more in her new role as VC. Her very sad and unexpected death is a cause of great sorry and loss to us all and to the University itself.

Prof Hugh Taylor AC

Working with Emma was such a joy, and she will be dearly missed at the University and across the wider sector. She truly valued the work of the Faculty of Education and took a genuine interest in what we were trying to do, supporting us through thoughtful, probing questions and ideas that stayed with us long after the conversation ended. I always appreciated the care, curiosity, and clarity she brought to discussions. Emma had a way of making conversations feel meaningful and encouraging, even when the issues were complex and nuanced. It was a privilege to work with her. My sincere condolences to her family and to all who were close to her.

Marek Tesar

I was very saddened to hear of Emma’s passing. Her loss will be felt by many at U. Melbourne and beyond. Sincere condolences to her family and friends.

Mark H

Emma was a great leader, an exceptional scholar, and an icon of a positive change-maker. Your smile, speech, vision, and everything will forever be missed and will never fade. I will deeply miss your presence and contribution.

Professor William Ho

I am devastated for the loss experienced now by Emma's family at her passing, someone so young in real terms and so vibrant. I am also truly deeply saddened for the UMelb community. Emma brought such a sense of positivity and collegiality and excitement and engagement, a real breath - a gust - of fresh air and future possibilities. Her impact was immense, the loss to all is immeasurable. But most of all I wish to convey the biggest possible hugs to her family.

Tim P. (Arts)

A great loss at a time in our society when university-management experience combined with a rounded understanding of science and integrated research and learning are critical for universities. She will be missed, and long remembered.

Professor Emeritus Lindsay Falvey