Vale Professor Emma Johnston AO

All of us at Asialink are deeply saddened by the passing of University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emma Johnston AO.  

Professor Johnston commenced as the University of Melbourne’s 21st Vice-Chancellor in February 2025, returning to the University where she completed her undergraduate and postgraduate studies, ultimately achieving a Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Ecology. 

Shortly after joining the University, Emma graciously accepted our invitation to make welcome remarks during foundation week of the Asialink Leaders program. She generously made the time - as she so often did throughout her life and career - to meet and engage with passionate people keen to make a difference in the world. 

Emma spoke with warmth and insight about her lifelong engagement with Asia - as a child, a student, a researcher and most recently as Vice-Chancellor. She understood more than most that our shared regional challenges and opportunities are best faced together through education, research and collaboration. 

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Professor Johnston’s family, friends and colleagues.