Cultivating the next generation of social justice advocates Alumni Give

Beth Montgomery Heath spent her life working for social justice and equal opportunity, fiercely advocating for society’s most vulnerable.

Born in 1935, Beth, dedicated 26 years of her life to helping children as a social worker at Child and Family Services in New York and volunteered extensively across a range of social justice organisations.

Alongside the considerable demands of working as a social worker and being an active volunteer in the community, Beth raised four children and instilled a passion for education and travel through the subsequent generations, including ten grandchildren.

Beth’s granddaughter, Juliana Heath, believed that establishing a scholarship in her memory was the perfect way to honour Beth’s life and extend her impact, creating a lasting legacy.

Juliana proudly remembers Beth as a trailblazer for women’s empowerment in her professional and family life.

“She managed to juggle family life while giving 26 years as a social worker, knowing if she ‘could just change one kid’s life, it was worth it’”.

Inspired by Beth and with her support, Juliana was able to study and travel

abroad before attaining her Masters of Social Work at Charles Sturt. This support allowed Juliana to pursue a path where she could follow in Beth’s footsteps amidst the financial pressures of raising her own young family.

Juliana established The Beth Montgomery Heath Scholarship for Social Justice as a tribute to her grandmother’s incredible contribution to the world. Each year, it will provide $5,000 to one continuing Bachelor or Master of Social Work student, reducing financial stress so they can focus on gaining the skills to become the passionate social justice changemakers of tomorrow.

Juliana believes that Beth is an inspirational role model for the students her legacy will enable.

“I know she would be proud to know that her legacy of generosity towards future social workers is an investment in students who have so much to contribute to the social justice needs of our communities and world”.

A memorial scholarship is a fitting way to honour the memory of a loved one.

If you’re interested in giving back, there are many opportunities and we would love to hear from you. Check out our Alumni Give program at alumni.csu.edu.au/alumni-give

I know she would be proud to know that her legacy of generosity towards future social workers is an investment in students who have so much to contribute to the social justice needs of our communities and world.

Juliana Heath. Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying), 2022