A Gift of Hope for a Better Future
A decision to leave a gift in his Will to support students studying environmental and life sciences is ensuring alumnus Michael Wilson’s enduring passion for the environment will continue beyond his lifetime.
📷 After Michael’s own journey through higher education, he chose to create opportunities for other students with his decision to leave a gift in his Will through the University of Newcastle.
Michael grew up in northern England, where high school students were typically divided between two paths: those who would attend university and those who would enter the workforce. At the time, higher education wasn’t an option for Michael so he joined the world of work.
In 1979, Michael moved to Australia. He began his new life with a job washing dishes in Bondi. With hard work and determination, his career evolved and he became a pioneer in the Hunter Valley’s olive industry.
For those considering leaving a gift in your Will, you will not only be leaving a gift of financial support, but you will also be sharing your dreams and aspirations with future generations – a gift of hope for a better future.”
Professor Clovia Holdsworth
Head of School
School of Environmental and Life Sciences
Approaching retirement, Michael made a bold decision to enrol in Open Foundation, a free pathway program to higher education offered by the University of Newcastle. Fuelled by a lifelong passion for the environment, Michael went on to complete a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management.
While studying, Michael saw first hand the financial pressures faced by many of his fellow students. He noticed many left class early to go to work while others dropped out altogether due to financial hardship.
Inspired to make a difference, Michael chose to leave a gift in his Will to help students in need of support studying in the fields of environmental and life sciences at the University of Newcastle. “I’ve decided to leave a gift in my Will to lift some of the financial burden for students. I got a lot out of university, and I’d like to give that opportunity to someone else,” says Michael.
To find out how you can make a lasting impact beyond your lifetime through a gift in your Will, please contact Catherine for a confidential discussion on 02 4921 8612 or email bequests@newcastle.edu.au.
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Contact
- Office of Philanthropy
- Phone: 02 4921 8612
- Email: donor-relations@newcastle.edu.au
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.