Thanks! event celebrates Monash University’s valued supporters

A special Thanks! event held on 8 November 2011 celebrated the extraordinary contributions of volunteers, donors and friends towards yet another successful year in the Monash journey.

More than 110 supporters attended the celebration in Cossar Hall at our Parkville campus, many also enjoying the opportunity to tour the new state-of-the-art facilities on campus. The Professional Practice Suites are transforming how we teach and learn - the suites include flexible rooms where students interact with virtual ‘patients', health professionals and others through role-playing, video conferencing , online software and avatars.

View photos from the evening

Guests enjoyed a cocktail function with live entertainment by a jazz trio of students from the School of Music and the stunning Sissons Mural as a backdrop. Speeches thanked supporters for their involvement and commitment to the University's success.

The diversity of support for Monash was evident at the event - with donors, volunteers including mentors and fundraising committee members, Council members, alumni leaders and other supporters all represented. Many contribute in more than one category.

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Edward Byrne AO gave an overview of the University's recent successes stating, "Monash can't do it without the people in this room!"

Monash University Chancellor Dr Alan Finkel AM discussed the link between the important work at Monash and the vital contributions made by the University's supporters.

"Some of the world's best and brightest minds are at work across the network of Monash campuses answering the big questions and educating the next generation. Their work is underpinned by you - a network of equally dedicated leaders who so generously volunteer their time and resources. Tonight is about acknowledging your partnership and on behalf of the University I offer you our sincere gratitude," Dr Finkel said.

Monash benefits greatly from the support and partnership of the many volunteers, donors and friends who so willingly give us their time, expertise and support. Positions on our University Council, our alumni chapters, interest groups, our faculty advisory committees and a host of various other vitally important groups and advisory bodies are populated by leaders from across the community. They play a role in ensuring our ideas pool includes fresh thinking from a critical mix of other sectors and professions. Our philanthropic partners continue to underpin the success of countless innovative projects and initiatives across the faculties.

Pharmacy student Brigid McInerney described the honour of receiving the 2011 Mathew Peck Travelling Scholarship, an annual scholarship that enables a Bachelor of Pharmacy student to travel overseas to assist on an international aide program.

"Without the support of Monash University and its donors, students like myself would only graduate with a piece of paper and knowledge from a textbook. I'm excited to embark on a trip that will not only complement my degree, but fuel my passions and open up further opportunities for more rewarding work and experiences."

The event included the launch of the fourth edition of Thanks!, Monash University's annual newsletter to recognise the contribution of our donors and volunteers. This publication will be promoted across our alumni and giving websites.

For further information on our alumni community, visit the alumni website.
For further information on giving, visit our giving website.

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