Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to succeed
Growing up in Dubbo, Makaah Darcy dreamed of studying law at the University of Newcastle. As the proud recipient of the Claudia Sloan Scholarship for Indigenous Students, Makaah says believing in herself and receiving support from the scholarship turned her dream into reality.
“To attend university, I had to move four hours away from my family and financially support myself,” explains Makaah. “Receiving the Claudia Sloan Scholarship for Indigenous Students has completely changed my university experience. It has allowed me to decrease my workload and focus on excelling in my studies. I have also connected with like-minded people with similar passions and interests, expanding my knowledge and learning experiences.”
I’ve been pleased to support my university’s efforts to help bright young people obtain higher education and thus decently paid work that makes a bigger contribution to society.
I met my wife, Claudia Sloan, when she was working for the Aboriginal Legal Service in Redfern. She has kept up a great interest in the welfare of Indigenous people, so I thought it would be great to name the scholarship after her.
There can be no doubt that the University’s Indigenous scholarships are money well spent in assisting students and their communities."
Ross Gittins AM
Bachelor of Commerce
1970 Honorary Degree - Doctor Letters, 2019
Planting the seed for greatness
Alongside her studies, Makaah works directly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students, helping them build their own strong cultural identity and purpose, while also pursuing their academic goals. She enjoys encouraging students to look beyond perceived limitations and feel empowered to succeed. “I want to show other students they too can achieve their dreams. I did it and so have many others,” says Makaah.
Together with hard work and dedication to their studies, scholarships significantly impact student success. Thank you to all of our donors for supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education and helping communities and families succeed.
Did you know?
Many University of Newcastle supporters have made the life-changing decision to cover the cost of a student scholarship for a period of three years.
In recognition of this wonderful generosity, the University invites donors to establish the scholarship in their name or in honour of someone who has made an impact in their life.
Donors receive a personal update from the student they have helped and are invited to meet their scholar at our annual ceremonies to hear more about the impact of their support.
Contact our team on the details below to receive a scholarship brochure.
Contact
- Office of Alumni and 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.