Susie Dunn - Donor Profile

“UNE enthusiast” Susie Dunn is not an alumnus and describes her contributions to the university over the years as modest. However, she illustrates the big difference that smaller donations can collectively make to the cultural tapestry and growth of a public institution such as ours.

With family heritage in the New England stretching back to the 1800s, Susie was a regular visitor to Armidale before choosing to live here in 1996. Both her children completed degrees at UNE and, as a writer and commentator, she’s maintained an active interest in university affairs while enjoying the easily accessible “brain food” that Armidale has to offer.

In recent times Susie has gifted two sculptures to the campus and a Percy Tresize painting to the Natural History Museum. “A university must have laboratories, lecture rooms and so on, but I also consider art part of a civilised and welcoming educational experience, enhancing a campus,” she says. “I’m passionate about what UNE and this region have to offer our nation.”

Susie’s latest donation, towards the Boilerhouse children’s discovery space, is an investment in the next generation. “With this project, UNE has the opportunity to really make an impact,” she says. “I love the Boilerhouse building and, having grandchildren, I understand the importance of educating children and initiating them into the world of science. I believe we should be responsible citizens of the world, and having children who ask questions and know where to get the answers is a powerful step towards that.”

“My contribution to the Boilerhouse centre is small, but I wanted to feel in some way part of its development. By giving what they can afford, others can similarly help UNE to fulfill its potential in educating students, conducting research and realising such exciting projects.”