Donors making a difference to the lives of future engineers

Alumni — By Greta Harrison on November 21, 2011 12:01 pm

The Melbourne School of Engineering’s donors are making the School’s impressive range of scholarship offerings possible, helping future engineers launch their careers.

Master of Engineering Scholarship recipients recently had the chance to thank donors to the scholarship program at a special cocktail function in the Old Engineering Building.

The event was hosted by the Dean, Professor Iven Mareels and Acting Chair of the Melbourne University Engineering Foundation, Christine Tursky Gordon.

Many donors attended the event, including former Chief Executive and Chairman of Connell Wagner (now Aurecon), Dr Jack Wynhoven AM.

During Dr Wynhoven’s career the company was engaged on projects such as Wembley Stadium , the MCG, Sydney Harbour Tunnel and Hong Kong Airport.

Dr Wynhoven completed his Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) at the University of Melbourne in 1964 and has had a long involvement with the School as a supporter, joining the board of the Melbourne University Engineering Foundation in 2006.

He said that after initially commencing his engineering studies at the Geelong Gordon Technical College, he was subsequently able to take up a residency at Newman College and complete his bachelor degree at the Melbourne School of Engineering, with the help of a scholarship. Dr Wynhoven said that his own experience helped him appreciate what a difference scholarships can make to students’ lives.

“I wouldn’t have been able to go to university without a scholarship.”

“Financial support of the Engineering school is essential for it to have a bright future.”

“Some of the students would not be able to complete a masters degree without financial support.,” Dr Wynhoven said.

Kezang Deki travelled from her home country of Bhutan to undertake a Master of Engineering (Structural) and was awarded a 2011 Master of Engineering Scholarship to help support her studies.

Ms Deki said she was initially surprised that she had been awarded a scholarship.

“But I felt very privileged at the same time. It has reminded and encouraged me to study hard.”

“I am blessed to get the opportunity.”

The Melbourne School of Engineering is grateful to our many donors, who enable us to offer scholarship opportunities to high-achieving students, and to those who would benefit from financial support in order to embark on their engineering career.

To find out more about supporting the School, please visit http://www.eng.unimelb.edu.au/alumni/donors-giving/.

Tags: Alumni