Image: Dr Richard Sawers AM (ATH 1966), Thomas Byun(FLL 2021) and Tim Browning, Headmaster
On Thursday 18 November, it was wonderful to see so many members of our community come together to celebrate philanthropy and volunteering at the School at the Foundation’s annual Celebration of Giving.
Since 1847, philanthropy has played an important part in shaping St Peter’s College and this year, thanks to the support of our community, the Foundation raised a record $2.84 million.
The legacy of this growing culture of giving will have a real and visible impact on current and future generations through the ongoing renewal of the School and increased scholarship opportunities for students who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to attend St Peter’s College.
The transformation of Big Quad to re-establish it as the heart of academia is just one example of the School’s commitment to its ongoing renewal.
The establishment of the 175 Year Anniversary Scholarship, Donlan-Bowen Family Scholarship, D’arcy Sutherland Scholarship, St Peter’s College Foundation Scholarships, General Excellence Scholarships and the re-establishment of the JW Downer Scholarship, are all examples of our community’s commitment to provide talented and promising students, regardless of circumstance, the opportunity to access a St Peter’s College education.
On behalf of the St Peter’s College Foundation, I express my deep gratitude for all gifts, no matter how big or small, and for the benefaction of Doug Elix AM (DAC 1966) and Robyn Elix, the St Peter’s Old Collegians, Adbri, Peter Maddern (MAC 1977), the Doc Ross Family Foundation and the Rischbieth family in providing other needs-based scholarship opportunities.
At the Celebration of Giving, recent graduate and a recipient of the St Peter’s College Foundation Scholarship, Thomas Byun (FLL 2011) expressed what it meant to him and his family to be awarded a scholarship at St Peter’s College.
Thomas said, “Being in an outstanding environment every day has encouraged me to dream big and has put me on track to achieve my dreams. With the help and support of like-minded individuals, I have been able to pursue my academic endeavours while participating in co-curricular activities at a high level”.
Thomas expressed his gratitude to the entire School community for giving him the opportunity to benefit from all that St Peter’s College has to offer. Thomas said that the “past two years have undoubtedly been the greatest years of my life”.
During his time at St Peter’s College, Thomas excelled academically and on the sporting field, never missing a single day of School. He was part of the winning 1st XVIII Intercollegiate Football match against Prince Alfred College in 2020 and will remain a wonderful example of our exceptional community of learning.
Earlier this week, I was delighted to learn that Thomas received outstanding results in Year 12, putting him one step closer to achieving his goal of studying medicine at university. With his drive, determination and commitment, Thomas is destined for an exciting and rewarding future.
The Foundation looks forward to supporting more students like Thomas.
Dr Richard Sawers AM (ATH 1966)
President | St Peter’s College Foundation