Allison Murphy Memorial Scholarship recipient announced for 2016

Fourth year Arts/Commerce student Rachael Brodie was last night announced as the second recipient of the annual Allison Murphy Memorial Scholarship.

The $4,500 scholarship will allow Rachael, a former Warrnambool resident who moved to Geelong in 2012 to pursue her studies at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus, to complete her double degree free of financial concerns.

“The scholarship has taken a huge burden off my shoulders,” Rachael said.

“Up until now, I was unsure how I was going to afford to finish my studies. Now, I’m able to focus more on my studies and take care of myself a bit better.

“I’ve also been able to join a business management study tour to France and Budapest in June and July and this will allow me to finish my studies in October this year, as planned.”

The Allison Murphy Memorial Scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Allison (Alli) Murphy, an inspirational Geelong community leader and much-loved wife and mother who passed away suddenly in February 2014 at the age of 42.

Funded by donations and administered by the Geelong Community Foundation, The Allison Murphy Memorial Scholarship is offered annually and provides up to $4,500 per year to a young woman studying politics, media or marketing at Deakin University.

The scholarship also provides priceless mentoring opportunities with Geelong community leaders including Deakin University Vice Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander, Avalon Airport Business Manager Mr Peter Dorling, business leader Frank Costa, and former Senator Judith Troeth.

Since applying for the scholarship, Rachael has enjoyed discovering more about Allison Murphy.

“I didn’t know a lot about Allison until I applied for the scholarship but I have since become aware of her amazing presence in Geelong, a city I have grown to love,” Rachael explained.

“She was such an influential communications professional in Geelong and did some fantastic and inspiring work for some great organisations. 

“I feel very honoured to hold a scholarship in her name.”

Deakin University Vice Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander congratulated Rachael on her achievements.

“We know that a scholarship can make a significant difference to students’ lives,” Professor den Hollander said.

“Our scholarships are designed to create a legacy of excellence for recipients to carry with them throughout their lives, while making their time with us easier so they can focus more on their studies without stressing over finances.

“Our comprehensive scholarship program is one way we are encouraging the best and brightest from across Australia and around the world to join the Deakin family.”

For more information on Deakin’s scholarships, including how to apply, visit: http://choose.deakin.edu.au/scholarships.