giving
THE IMPACT OF
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Elizabeth is a believer in the power of many to achieve great things in education. “When you look around MLC you can see the impact of philanthropy through the generations – from the Cato Building to the Nicholas Learning Centre. Contributions small and large all add up and enable MLC to remain an educational leader.” Choosing to leave a bequest to the Dr Wood Scholarship Fund also reflects Elizabeth’s fond memories of MLC’s much loved third Principal, who led the College from 1939 – 1966. “Dr Wood was such a presence. He knew every student and guided the school with incredible wisdom.”
GIVING THE GIFT OF OPPORTUNITY
For former student, Elizabeth Willis (Blythman 1963), the chance to spend her final years of secondary schooling at MLC was “a dream come true.” “I begged my parents to let me go to MLC,” recalls Elizabeth, whose older cousins attended the College and inspired Elizabeth with their stories of opportunity and a first-class learning environment. “I loved the facilities at MLC, from the gymnasium to the swimming pool to the Assembly Hall – it was like nothing I’d ever experienced,” Elizabeth says. “MLC was ahead of its time. I wasn’t especially academic, but I completed the MLC Business School qualification, which has held me in good stead throughout my working life.” “Looking back, I would have loved to have attended MLC for longer than just two years. Perhaps if I had had access to a scholarship, that may have been the case.” This sentiment has inspired Elizabeth to leave a bequest to MLC in her Will, which she has directed towards the Dr Wood Scholarship Fund. “I hope that my contribution will enable future students to attend MLC who may not otherwise have the opportunity to do so,” she says.
After finishing school, Elizabeth spent a short period working at MLC, as Dr Wood’s secretary. Dr Wood officiated at Elizabeth’s wedding in 1967. “I was lucky to attend MLC and am leaving a bequest in order to give that opportunity to girls in the future,” Elizabeth says. To have a confidential conversation about MLC’s Bequest Program please contact Maria Mercuri, Associate Director on + 61 3 9274 6308 or email bequests@mlc.vic.edu.au. For more information please visit mlc.vic.edu.au/Bequests DR WOOD SCHOLARSHIP UPDATE
The tax deductibility status of the Dr Wood Scholarship Fund has recently changed. Donations to this Fund are now fully tax deductible, in line with all other MLC Funds including the Building Fund and the Library Fund. The Dr Wood Scholarship is meanstested and awarded to a current or future MLC student at Year 9 or 10. It is valid for the remainder of their time at the College.
Clementine McNabb (2019).
MAKING THE MOST OF AN MLC EDUCATION
From GSV sport to performing arts festivals and leadership roles, Clementine McNabb (2019) remembers an MLC education that was rich with opportunities – and she took advantage of them whenever she could, supported by an MLC scholarship. “Receiving a scholarship enabled me to get the most out of my schooling through the full range of activities that MLC has to offer,” Clementine says. “I am very grateful to the Scholarship Fund donors who made my MLC education possible.” Clementine attended MLC from Years 7 to 12 and remembers two flagship moments in her personal development. The Year 9 MLC Marshmead experience was “an opportunity to be in touch with the environment and to reflect on my own selfimprovement and discovery” while the Year 10 Japan study tour “helped me to develop my language skills and experience the broader world.” MLC’s extensive art and music programs influenced Clementine’s passion for these areas. “In Senior School I was lucky enough to be the Art and Design Prefect, which taught me so much about leadership, teamwork and how to combine my hobbies with change.” She also valued her selection as an Outdoor Leader in Year 11, where she acted as a role model and mentor for students in Year 7. Clementine is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne, with plans to complete the postgraduate Juris Doctor there as well.
Principal, Rev Dr A H Wood officiates at the wedding of past student, Elizabeth Willis (Blythman 1963) to Michael Payne.
“My MLC education set me up to achieve the results that I needed to be in the position I am in today. Most importantly though it gave me lifelong friends and experience in teamwork and leadership that has proved extremely valuable.”
