The University of Newcastle, Australia

The family and friends of well-known tertiary education advocate and passionate theatre performer Glen Avery, who died suddenly this year, will gather this week to launch a scholarship fund in his name.

The Glen Avery Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide a perpetual scholarship to support a student in the area of performing arts each year.

Academic Registrar, Ms Gail White, said the scholarship was a fitting way to celebrate and remember the contribution of a special individual who enriched the lives of those who knew him.

"Glen will be remembered for the care and service he provided to colleagues, students and their families, and members of the community."

During his 20 years at the University he worked in many roles, including human resources, alumni relations, the management of scholarships and prizes, advising prospective students, and as a team leader in the Enquiry Centre.

"Glen went out of his way to help others and was a permanent fixture at graduation ceremonies, making sure graduates looked their best and families were inside the hall to see them walk across the stage."

Newcastle's musical theatre community will remember Mr Avery for his tireless contributions both on the stage and behind the scenes.

A keen performer, Mr Avery appeared in a range of musicals including favourites such as Guys and Dolls, Les Miserables, Joseph and His Technicolour Dreamcoat, The Sound of Music, Annie, and My Fair Lady. He was on stage for the last time in December 2007, covering the role of Butterworth in Club 71's production of Dracula.

Mr Avery's family, friends and colleagues will gather to launch the scholarship fund in his name on Friday 16 May 2008.

Photo opportunity: The Glen Avery Memorial Scholarship fund will be launched at a fundraising function at 5.30pm on Friday 16 May at 5.30pm at Syracusa, Newcastle campus.