The University of Newcastle, Australia

 Students studying at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music are set to benefit from a major donation to establish scholarships.

The $2.8 million donation is a bequest from Mr Norman Bushman. It will fund two scholarships – one for students studying music and the other for students studying singing. Each scholarship could be worth around $50,000 per student.

According to University of Newcastle (UON) Foundation Executive Officer, Dr Bernie Curran, Mr Bushman left the funds to the Conservatorium, as he was a great lover of the arts.

“Mr Bushman was born in Singleton and while he lived in Sydney during his adult life, he had a great connection to the Hunter Valley region.

“Before he died, Norman told me he had a great love for music and drama and it was his dream to help people achieve in this area.

“Each of us finds different ways to make our mark on the world. Norman left his legacy by making this donation in his Will to support something he was passionate about.”

The University of Newcastle’s Head of Drama, Fine Art and Music, Professor Richard Vella, said the donation helped seal the reputation of the Conservatorium as a centre of teaching excellence.

“These are major scholarships for the Conservatorium. We are truly grateful to Mr Bushman for his support. They will establish the Conservatorium at the University of Newcastle as a major destination for future music makers.

Leaving money to support students through a scholarship is just one way the community can leave a legacy. 

By making a bequest to the University of Newcastle you can help also fund life-changing research and many other University projects that benefit the community.

“Making a bequest to the University of Newcastle and education is not just a gift - it’s an investment in future,” Dr Curran said.

Anyone interested in making a donation to the University or the Conservatorium can contact the UON Foundation on (02) 49217 453 or visit the website at www.newcastle.edu.au/foundation.

About the UON Foundation:
The UON Foundation is the platform for philanthropic support for the University of Newcastle. Donations help fund student scholarships and prizes, academic positions, research and community projects.