Tribute messages

It was so refreshing to have a renowned and celebrated scholar of Emma's caliber as our incoming Vice Chancellor. It is with extreme regret that Emma will not be with us to see her vision for our future come to fruition. Whilst our community comes to terms with this tremendous loss, I look forward to enacting the strategy Emma delivered in her all to brief time with us. Sincere condolences to all touched by the loss of our remarkable leader.

Sincerely, Ruthie Bowler

Emma was a brilliant and extraordinary person. The world has truly lost an amazing and beautiful soul who still had so much to offer. May she rest peacefully as she will be missed dearly.

JS

An inspiration to so many students at the University and beyond. A huge loss, my greatest condolences to Emma's family.

Holly, PhD candidate with Melbourne Vet School

Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Emma Johnston AO. My sincere condolences to her family.

Gopal Devadev

I am deeply sad to hear of the passing of Professor Emma Johnston. This is an unbearable loss for the University community. My heartfelt condolences to Professor Johnston's family, friends and loved ones.

Ryan Krishnan

Emma, you were one of the best - smart in so many ways - academically, emotionally, strategically, even the way you dressed! I was thrilled when you were appointed as Melbourne's VC. I am so sad for the University, but even more so for your family and friends. Such a loss, but such great achievements in too short a time.

Michael McCarthy

I never knew Professor Johnston but I was very saddened to hear of her passing, my condolences to her family.

Alex Steve

Emma is an amazing leader, mentor and for me, a role model. In the few times I met her, she always asked engaging questions and made you feel like you were her priority. I have never known a leader like her. She leaves a remarkable legacy and will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.

Nick

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Vice-Chancellor Professor Emma Johnston. While I did not have the opportunity to meet her personally, I was consistently inspired by the energy, vision, and sense of purpose she brought to the University. Her leadership clearly made a meaningful impact, and her influence will be felt for many years to come by staff, students, and the broader community. To her family and close friends, please accept my sincere condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with you and all those across the University who had the privilege of working closely with her.

Michelle Jeans

I had the privilege of being at the Professional Staff Conference and was deeply inspired by Emma’s speech. Her vision, warmth and passion for people and education left a lasting impression on me. This is an incredibly sad and profound loss — not only for the University, but for the entire country. Emma’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire us all.

Kaleeka Ekanayake

I’ll remember Emma as a Vice-Chancellor who led with integrity, clarity and deep care for people. She believed in the power of education to change lives and in the responsibility of universities to serve the public good, bringing warmth to leadership, listening carefully and treating people with respect in both moments of celebration and challenge. Emma will be deeply missed and her legacy will continue through the Resilience Strategy and the values she championed.

Yves Makhoul

Emma was a visionary. She made such a positive impact on Melbourne, and she had so much more to give. Emma made a lasting impression on all of us.

Damian Glass