DONOR IMPACT REPORT 2016

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR

Ranked in the top 50 of more than 10,000 universities worldwide, The University of Queensland is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching institutions.

Ours is a position supported in no small part by generous donors who transform teaching and learning, drive discovery and impact and empower student success at UQ.

Your gift to UQ has the power to become any number of things – a life-changing scholarship for a talented but disadvantaged young student; a cure for dementia; better ways to protect the environment, or a sustainable source of energy.

For example, in 2016 donors raised more than $7 million for the rejuvenation of the Law School’s historic Forgan Smith building; The Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation pledged $2.1 million to support the prevention of ageing dementia; and donors established scholarships to support disadvantaged school leavers.

Every gift, regardless of size, touches some part of the University community – whether it be our students, teachers or researchers – as well as the broader society that benefits from what we do.

As the University responds to the complex and pressing needs of growing and urbanising global populations, further opportunities for donors to support our work will arise, whether it be the Sustainable Futures Building, our student residences project, or our five-year Student Strategy.

In partnering with UQ, you have recognised the importance of what we do and the significance of what we can achieve as we strive to create positive change for students, staff and the world in years to come.

Thank you for investing in us.

Professor Peter Høj
Vice-Chancellor and President

HOW DONORS HAVE SHAPED UQ THROUGH THE YEARS

The sandstone foundations of UQ are built upon the generosity of men and women like you who have dedicated their time and resources to help cure disease, see students of all backgrounds succeed at university, create pest and disease-resistant crops and build stronger economies.

For more than a century, generous donors have given funds, time, equipment, property, art and other valuable resources that have transformed the outcomes for students and research at UQ.

While this timeline can only highlight a few examples, we value every single gift we have received from our generous supporters.

1910s

The University of Queensland was established in 1909 by the state government, making it unique amongst universities at the time as it was created by the people and for the people, blind to the class structures of earlier institutes.

1920s

As the demand for higher education grew post-WWI, UQ’s inner city campus strained under the pressure. Fortunately, UQ was able to relocate thanks to brother and sister James and Emelia Mayne who donated more than £55,000 to Brisbane City Council to ensure the University would find its flagship home in St Lucia.

The Maynes also donated a considerable amount of land to the University including the Pinjarra Hills site and a portfolio of properties they left as gifts in their wills.

1920s

In 1927, the Fryer Library was founded, initially as a modest collection in the office of Dr Frederick ‘Doc Robbie’ Robinson.

John ‘Jack’ Denis Fryer, to whom the library is dedicated, was a UQ student and Vice-President of the University Dramatic Society, who died shortly after returning from WWI as a result of injuries sustained during battle.

Members of the University Dramatic Society donated £10 to establish an Australian literature library in Jack’s memory. Fellow veteran Doc Robbie took charge of hosting and cultivating the library on behalf of the students, despite never having met Jack.

1930s

The UQ Medical School was established in 1936, thanks again to the generosity of the Mayne siblings, whose £5,000 gift underpinned UQ’s ability to create what is now the largest medical program in Australia.

1940s

In the wake of the devastation of WWII, a father chose to remember his fallen son with a gift that still has an impact at UQ to this day. The Right Reverend William Henry Webster Stevenson, Bishop of Grafton, gave $600 in memory of his son, a Wing Commander in the Royal Australian Air Force, who gave his life in service of his country. The James Cecil Stevenson Memorial Prize continues to this day.

1950s

Since 1954, the A.C.V. Melbourne Prize, established in memory of Alexander Clifford Vernon Melbourne, has been providing an award of books to students who top their second year of a Bachelor of Arts with a major or extended major in history.

1960s

In 1967, UQ received an extensive collection of culturally valuable items from the estate of Father Leo Hayes. Father Hayes’ bequest of around 100,000 items also included ethnographic objects, which are now held at the UQ Anthropology Museum.

1970s

Since 1972, as a result of the Randall Silcock Bursary, UQ medical students have been able to travel to disadvantaged or remote communities during their summer break to provide medical assistance and build their professional and interpersonal skills.

1980s

In 1985, the Fryer Library received some of the works of one of Australia’s most revered sculptors, Daphne Mayo, after she left them to UQ in her will.

Mayo’s most famous carvings and sculptures include the tympanum atop Brisbane City Hall, the Queensland Women’s War Memorial and the statue of Major General William Glasgow, which sits in Brisbane’s Post Office Square.

1990s

Dr Dorothy Hill was the first female professor at an Australian university and the first woman to be admitted as a Doctor of Science at The University of Queensland. She was also a generous supporter of the UQ Library and the School of Earth Sciences during her life, donating not only funds but valuable tools and equipment as well.

In 1997, after her passing, the Physical Sciences and Engineering Library was refurbished and renamed the Dorothy Hill Physical Sciences and Engineering Library, in honour of one of the Library’s most generous benefactors.

2000s

Starting in 2003, support from Chuck Feeney and The Atlantic Philanthropies led to the establishment of four major research institutes and centres at UQ, the UQ Art Museum, and a A$50 million grant to the Translational Research Institute (TRI).

The impact of these gifts has been felt throughout UQ and the local community, cementing UQ’s position as one of the world’s leading research and teaching institutes.

2010s

In 2013, a donation from Dr Paul Eliadis (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery ’77, Bachelor of Science ’78) enabled the creation of a chair in Classics and Ancient History at UQ. This allowed UQ to appoint a leading expert in classical tradition, Dr Alastair Blanshard (Bachelor of Arts (First Class Honours) ’93, Master of Arts ’96).

As UQ is the only Queensland university to offer courses across all areas of the history, archaeology, culture, language and literature of Ancient Greece and Rome, the Paul Eliadis Chair of Classics and Ancient History ensures Australia can continue to produce top scholars across these areas.

UQ benefited from more than $37.3 million in gifts in 2016, raised through the generosity of alumni, community and industry partners.

UQ received $14.9 million in charitable bequests.

Staff Giving raised $1.5 million, while Annual Giving raised $1.2 million for teaching priorities, research and student scholarships.

Annual Giving comprised more than 70 per cent of the total number of gifts to UQ: collectively these many gifts of various sizes provided vital support for students, teaching initiatives and research.The UQ Telephone Engagement Campaign also resulted in more than 1000 gifts to the University, 53 per cent of which were from first-time donors.

$2.1 million pledge from The Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation to support a Stafford Fox program dedicated to the prevention of ageing dementia

$1 million pledge from an anonymous donor to the UQ Spinal Cord Injuries Advancement Fund

$450,000 gift from the Lions Medical Research Foundation to support ovarian cancer research

$2 million commitment
from The University of Queensland Endowment Fund to establish the TC Beirne School of Law Leadership, Excellence and Diversity (LEAD) Scholarship to support disadvantaged school leavers

$750,000 bequest
from the estate of Professor Philip Walker for two new funds: the Professor Philip Walker Ethics and Values in Medicine Fund and the Professor Philip Walker Surgery Research Fund
Additional $105,000 from the estate of Cecil Hampshire English, bringing the total gifts from this estate to $408,000, to support mental health research

Gift of house
from the estate of the late Susan (Molly) Blake. The house has been valued at $1.25 million and the proceeds will be used to support the RD Milns Classics and Ancient History Perpetual Endowment Fund

$1.3 million gift
from the estate of Edna Dorothy Griffiths in memory of her daughter, Roslyn Griffiths, that will support scholarships and other activities within the School of Veterinary Science and the TC Beirne School of Law

Donors that fit multiple sources are counted in each category, but counted only once in the grand total. 

Donors that fit multiple sources are counted in each category, but counted only once in the grand total. 

The University has a total of $176.1 million in a long-term investment portfolio that is managed by external specialist fund managers. The UQ portfolio has an industry- competitive fee structure with effectual management secured through a comprehensive fund manager tender process.

The external specialist fund managers – DNR Capital and Hyperion – are award-winning, established and independent with proven track records. Each fund manager is committed to long-term, balanced investment strategies to protect the capital, ensuring perpetuity of every fund into the future.

The portfolio consists of trust and bequest funds that have been received over UQ’s history. The fund managers are required to operate within designed asset allocation benchmarks and each has responsibilities for investments in cash and fixed interest, listed property, Australian shares, overseas shares, tactical asset allocation, and private equity.

The investment strategy of the UQ Investment Fund is to achieve a long-term return of Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus an additional 6%. The portfolio produced a return of 7.6% for the year to 31 December 2016.

The fair value of the portfolio increased during 2016 by
$21.7 million. The University is a tax-exempt entity and enjoys the benefits of full franking credit refunds.

Fund management fees for 2016 averaged out at 0.64% of the portfolio value. This percentage is based on an average monthly balance.

WORLD-RENOWNED STRESS SPECIALIST PUTS WORK INTO PRACTICE

A world-renowned neuroscientist, who specialises in understanding and reducing the effects of stress on the nervous system, has paid forward his success by supporting future generations of scientists at UQ.

Dr Nick Lavidis may be known worldwide for his research on the mechanism of neurotransmission and creation of SerenaScent™, but to his PhD students, he is also a kind, compassionate and generous mentor.

Dr Lavidis is one of many UQ staff who are passionate about supporting postgraduate students. He has demonstrated this by funding PhD scholarships since 2003, setting up a bursary in memory of his late parents – the Anastasios and Evangelia Lavidis Grant in Aid – to support students who face personal hardship and by helping his lab team with the costs of attending conferences.

University of Queensland PhD student Erica Mu said Dr Lavidis went above and beyond to support his students.
“Nick is such a kind and generous person; he does anything in his power to help his students,” said Ms Mu.

Dr Lavidis said he felt fortunate to have grown up in a generation that had access to free education and lower living expenses and wanted to pay forward his good fortune.

“The costs of living have never been higher for students and the pressure has never been so great. I know many academics now realise how fortunate they were and I would encourage them likewise to offer support in any way they can,” Dr Lavidis said.

“We need to appreciate what the previous generation gave us: free or inexpensive education and the opportunity to explore the frontier of biomedical science. It is now our turn to give the present generation the opportunity and excitement of being on the frontier of science.

“Anyone can help; it doesn’t matter how much you give, just so long as you do what you can,” he said.

University of Queensland PhD student Jessica Soden said Dr Lavidis’ support of students in attending conferences was particularly valuable.

“Conferences are vitally important to PhD students as they enable us to get our research out there and network,” she said.

“However, due to limited resources, often only one or two students will have the opportunity to attend key conferences.

“Nick will always try to make it possible for everyone to go – instead of just choosing the star students, he will inject something into our lab fund; he wants everyone to have a shot and a fair go,” Miss Soden said.

Dr Lavidis said he would encourage other staff and scientists in the wider community to sponsor postgraduate scholarships at UQ and thus ensure the success of our next generation of biomedical scientists.

“We have a duty to Science and the future of Australia to support the next generation of students who will be achieving breakthroughs, creating jobs and sustaining our economy,” he said.

“The best legacy we can leave is to support the next generation of researchers and innovators who will be leading Australia.”

If you’re a staff member interested in empowering student success, please consider making a donation through the UQ Staff Giving program. For more information email staff.giving@uq.edu.au or visit uq.edu.au/giving

INDIGENOUS SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIP SEES STUDENT SUCCEED

In December 2016, UQ celebrated its first graduate of the philanthropically funded Indigenous Science Scholarship, when Taylah Gerloff graduated with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Marine Biology.

The scholarship, which provides up to $20,000 per study year in financial support, is funded by a generous philanthropic contribution from Independent Marine Biochemistry Research Pty Ltd (IMBCR) and matches support from UQ’s Faculty of Science.

After originally presenting Miss Gerloff with the scholarship at a ceremony in 2014, the Director of IMBCR Dr Geoff Nette (Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) (Second Class Honours) ’85, Doctor of Philosophy (Chemistry) ’94) said he was overwhelmed with joy and pride at Miss Gerloff’s achievements.

“I am absolutely enthralled; this is a manifestation of the immediate influence that philanthropy can have and I can see the impact in front of me,” Dr Nette said.

“People talk about huge sums of money, but we’ve been able to achieve so much here for Taylah, with a relatively small amount.”

The Indigenous Science Scholarship was established to assist Indigenous students with the costs of tuition, study supplies, accommodation and basic living expenses while studying science at UQ.

Miss Gerloff said the scholarship had not only supported her dreams of becoming a marine biologist but given her the confidence to pursue further study.

“I cannot thank UQ, Geoff and IMBCR enough for supporting me in pursuing my education,” she said.

“This scholarship has not only helped me with the costs of study and travel to university, but has enabled me to partake in research and work activities that have provided me with invaluable experience in my field.”

Both the IMBCR and the UQ Faculty of Science have pledged to continue their support of the Indigenous Science Scholarship for at least another three years.

Anyone wishing to support Science scholarships with philanthropic gifts so future students like Taylah Gerloff can achieve their dreams can contact uqadvancement@uq.edu.au

GIFTED ART GRANTS STUDENTS' PRICELESS LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Gifts of donated artwork are providing students at UQ with the opportunity to study exceptional works up close on campus as part of their curriculum.

For more than 40 years, donors have recognised the value of giving their cherished works of art to the UQ Art Museum, where they both contribute to one of Queensland’s largest public art collections and provide learning opportunities for our next generation of art scholars.

A significant gift of artworks from Dr David Campbell (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery ‘65) and Dr Christine Campbell (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery ‘77) to the UQ Art Museum, valued at over $300,000, has boosted this program.

Students from the School of Communication and Arts have been offered the unique opportunity to study the works while they are on display in the Alumni Friends of UQ Collection Study Room.

Associate Professor Sally Butler, who teaches Art History students about the gifted artworks, said they provide a rare learning experience for students at UQ.

‘I found the Campbell’s gift invaluable for students learning about Indigenous art because of the exposure to works that had rarely been in public before,” Associate Professor Butler said.

“This collection of works encouraged students to do original research and analysis on some of the most significant artists of our region.

“The Campbells’ gift truly epitomises the great value of artwork donations to the University and the tremendous impact they have on student learning and research.”

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM FOR WOMEN IN ENGINEERING RESULTS IN RECORD NUMBER OF GRADUATES

Due to the generous support of industry partners and donors, UQ celebrated a record number of female engineering graduates in 2016.

Women comprised 26 per cent of all UQ engineering graduates in Semester 2, 2016 coming in well above the national average of 17 per cent.

The University of Queensland is the first Australian University to lead an industry-funded program aimed at increasing the number of women in engineering.

The Women in Engineering (WE) program is funded by UQ’s industry partners who have all demonstrated a commitment to diversifying their workforces. These partners include Rio Tinto, the Australian Power Institute (API), the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (APPEA) and the Origin Foundation.

To help achieve greater gender diversity in the industry, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff and engineering alumni Leeanne Bond (Bachelor of Engineering ‘87, Master of Business Administration ‘08) and Kathy Hirschfeld (Bachelor of Engineering ‘82), have generously funded scholarships, which support female students through the first year of their engineering studies at UQ.

Mechanical Engineering alumnus Amanda Dryden (Bachelor of Engineering ‘99) has also established the Indigenous Women Engineering Excellence Prize, aimed at encouraging and rewarding high- achieving Indigenous female students.

The Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology (EAIT) Executive Dean, Professor Simon Biggs, said promoting pathways to facilitate the entry of prospective students from equity and diversity groups was a key priority for UQ.

“We don’t just want to see gender diversity improve in engineering at UQ, we want to see broad change across the industry in Australia and globally,” Professor Biggs said.

“The Women in Engineering program was established at UQ as a university-led, industry-funded initiative to address the gender disparity in engineering at both the tertiary and industry levels, and the results so far speak volumes for the value of the program.”

The University is committed to continuing to provide exceptional female engineering graduates and has set an ambitious target of reaching over 30 per cent female engineering students by 2023.

TEACHING STUDENTS TO TREAT MAN'S BEST FRIEND

A gift of veterinary equipment is improving the outcomes of animals treated at UQ VETS Small Animal Hospital, located at the Gatton campus.

A dog named Sparkie, who suffered from chronic ear infections, was the first patient to benefit from a generous donation by alumna Hilary Huey (Diploma in Physical Education ’70) that funded the purchase of diagnostic equipment.

Dr Donna Spowart from UQ VETS said the equipment used to treat Sparkie had also provided many additional benefits for students, and also for the animals treated at UQ.

“The digital otoscope allowed us to get good visualisation of what was going on in Sparkie’s ear canal so that we could develop an appropriate treatment plan. Using the equipment meant we could share these pictures with the owner to explain the pet’s condition,” Dr Spowart said.

“It also allowed our students to practice visualising ear structures, which is something that is otherwise difficult to teach.”

Ms Huey said she was pleased the equipment had an immediate impact on the learning outcomes of students and the treatment outcomes of the animals cared for by UQ VETS Small Animal Hospital.

“This donation has achieved several benefits: UQ has the advantage of having the latest equipment available and it allows for a more productive teaching and learning experience by both staff and students,” she said.

The equipment purchased through Ms Huey’s generosity has made it possible to not only diagnose Sparkie’s condition, but will have wider implications for other animals treated at UQ VETS Small Animal Hospital.

“Most importantly, equipment of the highest standard should allow for more effective treatment and management of an animal’s condition, thus facilitating the maximum chance of recovery. To me, this is a win–win situation,” Ms Huey said.

The Webb-Jenkins Veterinary Science Endowment Fund, established with a gift from Hilary Huey, provides funds for the Webb-Jenkins Veterinary Travel Scholarships, which support students who undertake practical placements in rural areas. The fund also purchases small items of equipment.

To learn more about how you can support the interests of students, staff and animals at the UQ School of Veterinary Science visit veterinary-science.uq.edu.au/giving

ATTRACTING LEADING EXPERTS TO EDUCATE AND INSPIRE STUDENTS

A generous gift from UQ alumnus Malcolm Broomhead (Bachelor of Engineering ’75, Master Business Administration ’84) has led to the creation of a new Chair in Finance at UQ.

Mr Broomhead’s $3 million contribution was vital to the establishment of the new Chair in Finance in the UQ Business School, which will bring a world-leading finance expert to UQ who will cultivate Australia’s next generation of business leaders and academics. The Chair has since been named the Malcolm Broomhead Chair in Finance in his honour.

Mr Broomhead said he chose to support the Chair as he found his MBA very valuable and wanted to ensure other Australians continued to have access to a top business school with leading academics.

“The MBA program at UQ enabled me to really accelerate my career,” Mr Broomhead said.

“UQ Business School is the leading MBA provider outside of North America and Europe.”

“I think philanthropically supporting our universities is becoming more important, given our demographics and the competitive nature of education globally.

“We can’t continue to rely on the government to totally fund the education system,” he said.

Mr Broomhead said that higher education was increasingly important to Australia’s success and future.

“I think having a top business school is vitally important to the Australian economy, to our standards of living, and also an important link into Asia,” he said.

“We may have a small population, but there are real niches where we can be world-class, including medical research and education,” he said.

“It’s important we encourage individuals who have been successful in life to support education.”

The search is well underway for the new Malcolm Broomhead Chair in Finance with leading candidates from across the globe being considered for the coveted position, which will transform the teaching and learning experience at UQ.

IMPROVED FACILITIES EMPOWER STUDENTS TO SUCCEED

Law students at UQ now have access to some of Australia’s best educational facilities, thanks to the completion of the Forgan Smith Building west wing refurbishment in early 2017.

The $33-million refurbishment of theTC Beirne School of Law, housed in the west wing of the Forgan Smith Building has ensured UQ will continue to attract the best and brightest by providing state-of-the-art learning and research facilities aimed at meeting the needs of the modern legal profession.

Fourth-year law student and President of the University of Queensland Law Society, Emily McClelland said the refurbishment heralded a new era for the TC Beirne School of Law.

“When the Law School opened 80 years ago, the goal was to be the best in Australia,” she said.

“When the doors reopen in 2017, my generation will be aiming even higher.”

The new design uses the space in one of UQ’s landmark buildings to create a greater sense of collaboration, reflecting the practices of the modern legal workforce.

The refurbishment supports the school’s Create History project, a major refocusing of the school to provide a stimulating, interactive and inspiring environment for students and teachers.

To date, $7 million has been raised or pledged towards the $10 million target for Create History, with individuals gifting amounts varying from $20 to $2 million.

Academic Dean and Head of SchoolProfessor Sarah Derrington, said she was humbled and encouraged by the generous support of alumni, the legal fraternity and the wider community. Noting that the Create History project also supported an endowment scholarship fund to assist financially disadvantaged students.

“The endowment fund aims to maximise the ability of students of all backgrounds to study at TC Beirne School of Law, regardless of their means,” she said.

The refurbishment of the Forgan SmithBuilding would not have been possible without the commitment and help of the volunteer fundraising committee, whose advocacy and efforts have been fundamental to the success of the project.

Former UQ Chancellor and committee chair Mr John Story AO (Bachelor of Laws '69, Bachelor of Arts '69), led the volunteer fundraising committee. Current and past committee members include theHonourable Dr Margaret White AO (Doctor of Laws honoris causa '05), Mr JamesBell QC (Bachelor of Commerce '74, Bachelor of Laws '76), Ms Erin Feros(Bachelor of Arts '81, Bachelor of Laws '83), Steven Skala (Bachelor of Arts’76, Bachelor of Laws '78) and Mr Andrew Catsoulis (Bachelor of Arts ‘85,Bachelor of Laws '89).

EXPLORE THE REFURBISHMENT

University of Queensland supporters and alumni are encouraged to view the re-imagined west wing of the Forgan SmithBuilding and can make an appointment with the BEL Advancement team for an escorted tour. For further information visit http://law.uq.edu.au/create-history

To see the Forgan Smith Building refurbishment and other philanthropically supported projects at UQ, you can view the 2016 donor video at alumni.uq.edu.au/thank-you-2016

CAREERS OF QUEENSLAND ARCHITECTS NOW ONLINE

Understanding and accessing information online about the history and careers of prominent Queensland architects is now possible, due to generous philanthropic and volunteer support.

Students, academics and historians are now able to access the rolls of architects from the Queensland Government Gazette from 1930 to 1980 online through UQ’s Fryer Library, after a $2500 gift from the Board of Architects of Queensland and the support of dedicated volunteers who made it possible.

Adjunct Professor Don Watson (Bachelor of Architecture ‘70, Doctor of Letters honoris causa ‘13) from the UQ School of Architecture was one of the volunteers who eased the digitisation process by flagging relevant content.

Adjunct Professor Watson said he devoted his time to the project after realising what an invaluable asset the records would be for historians and researchers.

“Digitisation of the rolls will facilitate a better understanding of architects’ careers and save researchers a significant amount of time,” Adjunct Professor Watson said.

“It will make it possible for researchers all over the world to quickly establish whether an architect whose career was primarily elsewhere, ever registered in Queensland. Until now, this wasn’t a possibility,” he said.

The University of Queensland Fryer Library now holds over 25,000 architectural plans, from firms such as Conrad & Gargett, Wilson’s Architects, Karl Langer and Vitaly Gzell, among others. These plans can be accessed through the Fryer Library, which is open to the public.

The University of Queensland Library is now raising funds to create a teaching space in the Fryer Library that will allow greater access to architectural plans and the many other unique and rare resources it offers. Details can be found at web.library.uq.edu.au/about-us/giving-to-library.

The digitised rolls of architects are now live and accessible at
espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:416580 for all to use.

THE PHARMA REVOLUTION: GROWING MEDICINES IN PLANTS

A new facility at UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience funded by a generous donation from the Clive and Vera Ramaciotti Foundation is helping researchers transform sunflower seeds, tea leaves and even potato chips into the drug delivery packages of the future.

Head of the Clive and Vera Ramaciotti Facility for Producing Pharmaceuticals in Plants, Professor David Craik, said his team would use the state-of-the-art facility to transform plants into ‘biofactories’ that produced potent next-generation medicines.
“Tablets or injections are common ways of dispensing pharmaceutical treatments, but we want to create drugs that can be grown in fields rather than factories,” Professor Craik said.

“This breakthrough research has the potential to be a game-changer for patients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular disease, multiple sclerosis or chronic pain.

“The potential benefits are huge. It could mean more accessible and more affordable healthcare on a worldwide scale.”

GIFT ENCOURAGES YOUNG WOMEN TO PURSUE MATHEMATICS

A young woman, who dreams of becoming a mathematics teacher, will now have support in achieving this goal thanks to a new philanthropically funded prize.

Kathryn Stephan was the first recipient of a $1000 prize aimed at encouraging the participation of young women in mathematics.

Wendy Robson (Bachelor of Arts, ’81), donated the gift in honour of her mother, who was discouraged from studying mathematics as a young girl.

Now Ms Robson’s gift will encourage future generations of women to strive towards their dreams.

Miss Stephan, who is studying a Bachelor of Education majoring in Mathematics and Drama, said that in a field as challenging and dynamic as mathematics, the prize was affirmation that she had made the right choice.
“I find that while I enjoy maths, it is still a challenge, but this prize has inspired me to continue to do the very best that I can,” she said.

Miss Stephan said that she was fortunate to have parents and teachers who supported her in her decision to study education and mathematics.

“It wasn’t until high school that I developed a passion for mathematics, through the help of many fabulous teachers,” she said.

“My parents have always been supportive of my decision to study education and attend The University of Queensland. I do not think that I would be where I am today without their support and encouragement.”

Head of the School of Mathematics and Physics, Professor Joseph Grotowski said it was encouraging to see so many students taking an interest in UQ’s mathematics programs.
“UQ offers a very broad mathematics program, ranging from pure theoretical mathematics through to a range of applications of mathematics and statistics to current problems in a range of fields,” he said.

One day, Miss Stephan hopes to continue the cycle by using her platform as a teacher to inspire students to pursue their dreams.

“I hope that my career in education will allow me to inspire students to pursue whatever career they desire.”

THE GIFT OF EDUCATION

For many young and talented students, working hard at school and achieving outstanding results is no guarantee that they will be able to attend university and fulfil their dreams.

Financial hardship for many students is very real, as current UQ student Madison McNaughton can attest.

“I had always wanted to go to university, but wasn’t sure if I would get the opportunity,” said Ms McNaughton, who is now studying a Bachelor of Commerce/Economics at UQ.

“After working really hard at school, my grades were strong enough for me to be accepted into university, but I couldn’t imagine how I would be able to afford it.”

Fortunately, Ms McNaughton was one of many students who have benefitted from the UQ Young Achievers Program, which offers aspiring Year 10 students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds a pathway to study at UQ.

“While my family are strong believers in higher education, the financial pressure of supporting me would have simply been too great for them. Without the UQ Young Achievers Scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to come to UQ.”

Ms McNaughton is set to graduate in 2018 and hopes to pursue a career in tax, assurance or economic policy.

She says she really appreciates the overwhelming support from the UQ community for the UQ Young Achievers Program, which has helped make her tertiary dreams come true.

“As the first in my family to attend university, I am so grateful for the support I have received.”

UQ raises funds each year for students, teaching and research, and in 2016, 78 per cent of the total number of gifts to UQ were from the Annual Appeal – a statistic that truly highlights the importance of collective giving.

These gifts, large or small, collectively make a profound and lasting difference, especially for students like Ms McNaughton.

If you’ve considered making a gift to UQ, contributing to the Annual Appeal can make a big impact.

Your regular support, together with the collective support from others, will empower student success and transform dreams into reality.

To make a gift or contribution, visit uq.edu.au/giving/donations

NEW BREAKTHROUGHS IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE RESEARCH

Researchers at UQ’s Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) have already demonstrated that ultrasound can be used to reverse Alzheimer’s disease in mice; now philanthropic funding is taking this breakthrough a step further.

In a new study published by a team of researchers in Professor Jürgen Götz’s lab in the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research at QBI, ultrasound has been shown to slow ageing in healthy brains.

This study, which was funded by the Clem Jones Foundation, the Helpful Foundation and an anonymous donor, builds on UQ’s 2015 research, which revealed non-invasive ultrasound technology could be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

A senior author of the study, Dr Robert Hatch, said this was a promising advance as it showed the method identified in 2015 is not only safe and effective but also has further applications as a preventative measure for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

“We found that, far from causing any damage to the healthy brain, ultrasound treatments may in fact have potential beneficial effects for healthy ageing brains,” Dr Hatch said.

In the next stage of research, the team will test the effect of ultrasound on the brain structure and function of older mice.

“Collectively, this research is fundamentally changing our understanding of not only how to treat Alzheimer’s disease, but that interventions such as ultrasound scanning can prevent the detrimental effects of ageing,” Dr Hatch said.

“This is a pressing health issue in an ageing society and it’s clear that scanning ultrasound technology has potentially significant applications.”

Research into Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and brain ageing at QBI is heavily supported by numerous long-term givers, whose commitment ensures our societies’ understanding of neurodegenerative diseases continues to progress.

CHAMPIONING EARLY-CAREER RESEARCHERS

After graduating top of her year with First Class Honours in 2016, rising research star Yu Hung has received a Yulgilbar Foundation PhD top-up award to help her champion new approaches to beat Alzheimer’s disease.

The award supports bright young researchers who will bring new ideas to the field and helps kick-start their careers in science.

Ms Hung, who is working with leading cell biologist Professor Jennifer Stow at UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience, is investigating the underlying causes of inflammation in the brain and how these contribute to Alzheimer’s disease.
“Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and devastating disease, but the research we do today will help change this in future,” Ms Hung said.

“I am really excited to be working in this innovative field and contributing to the global research effort to better understand and treat Alzheimer’s disease.”

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE ARTS

A philanthropically funded research scholarship has enabled a star student to develop her research skills while working closely on the curation of an exhibition recognising the importance of philanthropy in the arts.

Michaela Bear, who graduated with First Class Honours in Art History in 2016, was awarded The Donald Tugby UQ Art Museum Renaissance Summer Research Scholarship 2016–2017.

Working at The University of Queensland Art Museum, Miss Bear was closely involved with the development of the exhibition Philanthropists and Collections, which considers how patronage has helped to build and strengthen the UQ Art Collection.

Miss Bear said her work provided a unique insight into the impact of philanthropy on the arts at UQ.

“My scholarship involves curatorial and registration tasks related to the UQ Art Museum’s exhibition Philanthropists and Collections,” she said.

“The exhibition includes artworks that have been generously donated to The University of Queensland, and acknowledges the important role that philanthropy has played in the development of the collection.”

She said this experience was invaluable in developing both her research and professional capabilities.

“UQ is lucky to have supporters like the late Dr Donald Tugby – their generosity gives students a chance to gain practical experiences that will help them pursue careers in the arts,” Miss Bear said.

Philanthropic support of student scholarships like the one Miss Bear received enhances student research outcomes and helps young achievers increase their career prospects.

Miss Bear said the scholarship had provided her with the ability to apply everything she learnt at UQ in a professional context.
“It’s exciting to know that my work will contribute to an exhibition, instead of just being a university assignment,” she said.

Upon the completion of her research project, Miss Bear is going to intern at the Honolulu Biennial, to apply the skills she learnt at the UQ Art Museum.

WORLD-FIRST CLINICAL TRIAL PROVIDES NEW HOPE

Queensland researchers are launching a world-first clinical trial aimed at improving recovery from spinal cord injuries.

In the study, led by The University of Queensland and The Princess Alexandra (PA) Hospital, a new anti-inflammatory drug will be given to participants within hours of spinal trauma in an effort to minimise tissue damage.

The study is testament to the impact pre-clinical philanthropic funding can have on research outcomes, with this work having received pre-clinical funding from both SpinalCure Australia and Wings for Life Australia.Dr Marc Ruitenberg from the UQ School of Biomedical Sciences, said that in spinal injury cases a lot of additional damage is caused post-injury, due to inflammation and swelling in the spinal cord.

“Up until now, doctors had limited treatment options to deal with this problem,” Dr Ruitenberg said.

“What we discovered in our animal studies is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy can reduce this harmful inflammation and, excitingly, significantly improve the recovery from serious spinal cord injuries.”

The trial will run for three years and aims to recruit 20 participants through the PA Hospital, which is Queensland’s primary centre for spinal cord injury care.

The research is now being supported in its clinical trial phase by CSL Behring, who have provided IVIg and also the funding for this clinical trial.

To find out more about supporting the ground-breaking work of researchers like Dr Ruitenberg, visit biomedical-sciences.uq.edu.au/community/donate

EXERCISE TO REVERSE BRAIN AGEING

The University of Queensland has launched a world-first philanthropically funded clinical trial to determine the exact amount of exercise needed to reverse the effects of ageing on the brain.

The study, which is backed by a $2.1 million donation from The Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation, will take place at Queensland Brain Institute’s Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research.

Project lead Professor Perry Bartlett said the clinical trial had real implications for preventing and reversing the effects of dementia.

“After decades of research, we’re in a position to determine what exercise and how much exercise can keep our brains nimble,” Professor Bartlett said.

“This will be the most comprehensive analysis yet of why exercise is beneficial, identifying the underlying mechanisms in the body, and taking advantage of UQ’s world-leading imaging and research capabilities.

The clinical trial is a collaboration between UQ School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences and UQ Centre for Advanced Imaging.

Professor Bartlett said the ultimate goal of the study was to develop guidelines for the public on how to prevent brain ageing through exercise.

“Ultimately, we would hope to have clear public health guidelines as to how exercise can both prevent and reverse dementia.”

UQ ALUMNI COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT CURRENT STUDENTS

In 2016, two UQ graduate classes came together to reconnect with their peers through class reunions and, in the process, decided to give back to current and future students at UQ in the name of their late-mentor R.J. ‘Gus’ Wiles.

The 1986 and 1996 Chemical Engineering classes both chipped in to contribute almost $2000 towards the R.J. ‘Gus’ Wiles Scholarship Endowment Fund.

Since it was established in 2010, over 250 alumni have supported the Gus Wiles Scholarship and now a push to endow the scholarship has been started.

Endowing this fund is very important to many UQ graduates and supporters as it means the fund will become a permanent fixture that will continue to benefit students at UQ for generations to come.

The late Gus Wiles was considered by many to be the ‘heart and soul’ of UQ’s School of Chemical Engineering.

Dr Kate O’Brien, a senior lecturer in Chemical Engineering at UQ, said Gus would have been thrilled to see that the scholarship fund, originally created during his lifetime, was continuing to benefit students at UQ.

“The man himself would be delighted to see how the Gus Wiles Scholarship has impacted the lives of students,” Dr O’Brien said.

“The contributions of so many alumni and students has meant that UQ students can spend time at top-class facilities around the world and the insights they are bringing back to Australia will benefit us all.”

Throughout his career, Gus touched the lives of many students; he was an avid supporter of study-related travel and scholarships at UQ and he also helped facilitate work opportunities that led to successful careers for many students.

A recipient of a Gus Wiles Scholarship, Maddalena Gabrielli, said the opportunities provided through her scholarship were priceless.

“The Gus Wiles Scholarship gave me the chance to study at Ecole Centrale Paris for a year. I made international connections that have allowed me to share knowledge and information on a global level,” she said.

“It gave me a whole new perspective on the role chemical engineering plays in the modern world.

“I would not have my current job as a Sustainability Engineer at the Brisbane Airport Corporation without the experience I gained through this scholarship,” Ms Gabrielli said.

UQ engineering graduates from across the world are now working together to reach the $500,000 needed to endow this scholarship and ensure it continues to benefit students at UQ for decades to come.

If you would like to learn more about supporting this scholarship visit chemeng.uq.edu.au/gus-wiles

PROFESSOR PAYS IT FORWARDTO IMPROVE INDIGENOUS HEALTH RESEARCH AND POLICY

A professor at UQ, who has dedicated her life to ensuring better health outcomes for remote and at risk populations, donates a portion of her pay each fortnight to build a collaborative resource for researchers and policy makers.

Professor Wendy Hoy AO, is a world-renowned researcher whose 25-year career has focused on the risk of kidney disease, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in disadvantaged or high-risk populations.

Over the past year, she has been leading support for the creation of a resource that organisations, such as the Centre for Disease Control and National Institute of Health, can use to further Indigenous health research and make informed policy decisions.

“I am donating to UQ to build – with specific community consent – a repository of information, data, and biologic samples that have already been gathered, as a resource to other agencies working collaboratively to advance Aboriginal health and research,” said Professor Hoy.

The information, data and biological samples, which comprise this tool, will be stored across various research institutes at The University of Queensland.

Professor Hoy said it was important to ensure Indigenous groups and leaders had ownership of Indigenous health initiatives and were provided with opportunities to contribute their knowledge to wider healthcare conversations.

“Aboriginal groups have taken ownership and have assumed leadership roles; they are keen to contribute to global knowledge, not only of health issues, but of origins, migrations ancestry and customs,” she said.

“With good governance, which must include Aboriginal leadership, sound ethical procedures and multilateral agreements, Aboriginal people can truly contribute to knowledge on a global scale.”

Professor Hoy stressed the importance of preventative measures in addressing chronic disease.

“My 25-years of research work into chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease and chronic lung disease in Aboriginal people, has convinced me of the benefit of early diagnosis and treatment. Prevention is also important as much of the risk is established very early in life,” Professor Hoy said.

“While we have seen enormous advances in health services, outcomes and survival over the past 60 years, more progress can be made.

“Current Indigenous health issues, such a low birthweight, excessive infections and poor diet, are entirely preventable and can be addressed through a mixture of intersectoral service, population and health initiatives.”

Professor Hoy said it is amazing what the scientific community can achieve when they come together.

“The possibilities for productive collaborative research are almost limitless.”

If you would like to find out more about supporting this initiative please visit clinical-research.centre.uq.edu.au/chronic-disease-research

BEQUEST BRINGS GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING MUSICIAN BACK TO UQ TO TRANSFORM TEACHING AND LEARNING

A gift from the estate of the late Paula and Tony Kinnane is transforming teaching and learning at UQ by offering students the opportunity to learn from a world-leading musician.

In May 2017, three-time Grammy Award-winner Tim Munro (Bachelor of Music (First Class Honours) ’99) will become the inaugural Paula and Tony Kinnane Scholar in Residence, a program that commemorates the Kinnanes’ love of music.

“It’s an extraordinary honour. I gather that Paula and Tony were beloved supporters of the UQ arts community, and their generous bequest will give art and music students – particularly those from regional areas – access to fascinating opportunities,” Mr Munro said.

Mr Munro will work with students, deliver the inaugural Kinnane Public Lecture, and perform at the School of Music’s Semester 1 concert in the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

“UQ is my alma mater, and I am thankful for any way I can give back to an institution that helped stoke my passion for music and allowed me to build a foundation that kick-started my career,” Mr Munro said.

The Kinnanes left an $8 million bequest to benefit arts and music programs and students at UQ. This gift has deepened the School of Music’s programs, relationships and engagement, particularly in remote areas of Queensland.

School of Music Head Professor Margaret Barrett said the gift would have a trickle-down impact on the wider music community.

“This gift has the power to change lives through the learning and research that will be flowing through to communities,” she said.
The Kinnane Bequest will also enable the UQ Art Museum to establish internships, providing students with gallery and museum skills.

UQ Art Museum Director Dr Campbell Gray said the Kinnane bequest is being used to create valuable practical opportunities for students.

“We are working on creating practical training experiences for undergraduate and PhD students within the UQ Art Museum as a result of this transformational bequest,” said Dr Gray.

“Students who have these pre-professional opportunities are more likely to obtain attractive professional positions following their formal education.”

To find out more about leaving a gift in your will to transform teaching and learning and empower student success at UQ visit uq.edu.au/giving/make-a-bequest-or-endowment

THANK YOU

The University of Queensland acknowledges the support of its donors.

With the support of donors, The University of Queensland is able to create change by empowering student success, transforming teaching and learning, and driving discovery and impact. These achievements are simply not possible without the generosity of our donors, alumni, friends, industry partners and foundations.

The following list includes gifts made to The University of Queensland in America Inc. Foundation and granted to the University.

VIEW THE FULL DONOR HONOUR ROLL HERE