The University of Newcastle (UON) Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of long time donor, Mrs Jennie Thomas AM, as a member of the Foundation Board.

Jennie is an alumnus of the University of Newcastle as well as a donor. Jennie had a long career in education. Now retired, she has established numerous student scholarships through the UON Foundation in the areas of art, environment, music, medical research and the environment.

With her philosophy of ‘giving with a warm hand and a warm heart’, she has supported and mentored dozens of students as they work to achieve their dreams in their chosen area. 

Jennie is the Life Governor for the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), which is a partnership between the University, Hunter New England Health and the community.

She is also a Life Governor of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. Her other interests in Australia include the Hunter Melanoma Foundation, ‘Mental Health First Aid’ and work with disabled children in Leura.  In 2009 Jennie received the Australia Medal in the Order of Australia Honours.

Jennie’s interests and support in the areas of health and education extend beyond Australia’s borders particularly in West Africa, India, Laos, Vietnam and the outer Yasawan Islands of Fiji.

Chair of the UON Foundation Board Jeff Eather welcomed Jennie’s appointment to the Board.

“As a donor who leads with both her heart and her head, Jennie has been instrumental in the development of the careers of many young, outstanding students. Her emphasis on education, young people and the importance of dreams elevates her philanthropy to another level.
“Having Jennie join us on the Board means we now have the opportunity to see things from a donor’s perspective. We are truly honoured to have Jennie join us on the UON Foundation Board.”

The UON Foundation Board consists of Jeff Eather (Chair) - Managing Director, The Callaghan Institute, Professor Nick Saunders - Vice Chancellor, University of Newcastle, Julie Ainsworth - General Manager, Newcastle Newspapers, Peter Brecht CEO, Bilfinger Berger Australia, Dr Geoff Leonard AM – Chairman, Newcastle Innovation, Phillip Smith – Partner, Cutcher & Neale, A/Professor Martin Fitzgerald - Pro-Vice Chancellor, Corporate Development and Community Partnerships and Craig Wallis - Chief Financial Officer, University of Newcastle. 

About the UON Foundation:
The UON Foundation is the platform for philanthropic support for the University of Newcastle. Donations help fund student scholarships, academic positions and research. The Foundation also aims to create and sustain relationships between the community, business, alumni and the University.