How our generous alumni community gives back

David Bussman, Master of Arts, 1999

David Bussman with his wife, Patricia, decided to invest in future generations by leaving the University a bequest to help fund its Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre.

“We should all be seeking to support good works,” he says. “Former Macquarie students and employees who support research are indeed giving back and creating a legacy that will endure well into the future. All we need is for a few thousand more dedicated people to leave a modest amount in their wills to help fund scientists with their work.”

Pamela Alvarez, Bachelor of Legal Studies, 1988

“I wanted to give back to Macquarie for the opportunity I was given as a young widow and full-time working mother with two school-age children. Studying law would have been beyond my dreams if the external course had not been available.

“When the time was right for me to make a bequest in my will, I advised the University to arrange it for me at one of their lunches. I also made donations from time to time to assist less advantaged students in studying at Macquarie University.

“Following my retirement as a lawyer with the NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, I volunteered to assist with the Law graduation ceremonies. This provided the opportunity to demonstrate my pride in being an alumna of this wonderful establishment and to observe its development, including our amazing library and, most recently, our stunning new Justice Michael Kirby Law School.

Additionally, my local Hunters Hill Medical Practice has won recognition as the Best General Practice in Australia on a number of occasions. It won recognition announcing its affiliation with Macquarie University, where medicine, nursing, and other health and medical degrees are now available. As a donor, I feel a sense of pride that my past donations and future bequest, in some small way, help me feel a part of its success,” said Pamela Alvarez.

Professor Elizabeth Sheedy, Master of Applied Finance, 1993

Professor Elizabeth Sheedy's three-decade commitment from Macquarie Bank to Macquarie University's Master of Applied Finance program highlights her dedication to educating future finance professionals.

Her contributions extend beyond academia, influencing industry standards and fostering a legacy of giving back.