Rupert Myer speaks on philanthropy in education

Well-known businessman and philanthropist Rupert Myer AM addressed a diverse audience of advancement, education and cultural sector professionals when he was special guest speaker at Emmanuel College’s second lecture in its Philanthropy in Education series in early September.

Members of the UQ Senate and Senior Executive, Heads of School, UQ and Emmanuel alumni, secondary school principals and members of the arts community gathered to hear Rupert Myer’s thoughts on the important role philanthropy has played, and continues to play, in education.

Emmanuel College Principal Stewart Gill believes Rupert Myer is well qualified to speak on the subject of philanthropy.

“Rupert has just been appointed as the new Chair of the Australia Council,” Dr Gill said.

“He is also Chairman of The Opera Australia Capital Fund, Chairman of Kaldor Public Arts Projects and serves as a member of the Felton Bequests’ Committee. Rupert serves on a number of boards, including, of course, The Myer Foundation, and the Australian International Cultural Foundation.”

In his speech, Mr Myer stressed that philanthropy was more than money and that its expression through volunteering, and the sector’s voice and influence, can expand its reach.

“The value of non-grant making activities cannot be overestimated,” he said.

“We have all seen the benefits that accrue from bringing parties together to discuss an issue.

"Key stakeholders brought together can often spark ideas and creative solutions before any cheque is written.”

In concluding, Mr Myer shared his view that philanthropy contributes wisdom as well as intellect, experience as well as a desire to change, and its core values are a tolerance for ambiguity and a generosity of spirit.

He explained that these values, expressed through grant-making, drive successful philanthropic engagement with the education sector.

Dr Gill said Rupert provided the audience with some extremely valuable insights into philanthropy in the education sector.

"We were privileged to have him as our guest speaker this year and he was a worthy successor to John Reid AO, our inaugural Philanthropy in Education speaker last year," Dr Gill said.

“We are looking forward to continuing this series in 2013.”

Mr Myer’s speech can be viewed here or visit the Emmanuel College website.

For further information contact Emmanuel’s Director of Advancement, Margy Chatburn, 07 3871 9342 or m.chatburn@emmanuel.uq.edu.au