DEAKIN University has received the largest single bequest in its history.<\/p>\n
Last month, the university – which has campuses on the Geelong Waterfront and in Waurn Ponds – announced the estate of the late Dr Lewis and Libby Hughes had provided a gift of $1.64 million.<\/p>\n
This will fund research stipends of more than $25,000 for three years for PhD and post-doctoral education students, as well as tuition fees for international students and staff salaries.<\/p>\n
The research will focus on how lifelong learning helps people form social connections and build a sense of community.<\/p>\n
Lewis and Libby were passionate about Deakin, lifelong learning, and giving back to their community, and believed education was a cornerstone of creating a sense of community.<\/p>\n
In an interview in 2018, Lewis said he and Libby wanted to inspire future generations to value learning and its outcomes.<\/p>\n
“We believe that the measure of one’s life is centred on what you contribute, not about what assets you have.<\/p>\n
“Through supporting educators – both researchers and practitioners – we create ripples of impact that extend far beyond the classroom.”<\/p>\n
The Hughes had a long connection to Deakin, with Libby beginning her tertiary education at Burwood Teacher’s College (one of Deakin’s antecedent institutions), while Lewis completed his Masters’ degree at Deakin.<\/p>\n
Lewis remained engaged with the university throughout his life, later completing a PhD and becoming president of the university’s bequest society.<\/p>\n
After Libby was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2010, the couple began joint research on how vocational education could help build strong social connections.<\/p>\n
“I fully believe that the research that Libby and I undertook together contributed to her living \u2013 with purpose and passion \u2013 another four years after being told she only had a very short time to live,” Lewis said.<\/p>\n
Libby passed away in 2015, and Lewis in 2023.<\/p>\n
Deakin vice-chancellor Professor Iain Martin praised the Hughes’ gift.<\/p>\n
“The gift from Lewis and Libby Hughes is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact philanthropy can have on education,” he said.<\/p>\n
The Hughes’ generosity embodies the belief that supporting educators today will shape the minds of tomorrow \u2014 a sentiment that is very close to Deakin’s heart.<\/p>\n
“Their bequest ensures that their dedication to education will benefit future generations, fostering a passion for lifelong learning and the lasting pursuit of knowledge.”<\/p>\n
He said philanthropy had played a transformative role throughout Deakin’s 50-year history.<\/p>\n
“Philanthropy has driven Deakin’s growth and innovation, enabling us to extend opportunities beyond the classroom and into communities.<\/p>\n
“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we honour the unwavering support of donors like Lewis and Libby Hughes, whose contributions make a lasting difference to our communities.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
DEAKIN University has received the largest single bequest in its history. Last month, the university – which has campuses on the Geelong Waterfront and in Waurn Ponds – announced the estate of the late Dr Lewis and Libby Hughes had provided a gift of $1.64 million. This will fund research stipends of more than $25,000 […]<\/p>\n