Media Release
The Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute announces the launch of the AMSI Yuille-Umbers Secondary School Scholarships, which will provide support and mentoring to female students from disadvantaged backgrounds completing specialist maths in years 11 and 12.
According to the AMSI Year 12 Participation report card, the proportion of female students studying higher mathematics remains significantly lower than male students. These low participation rates are a societal concern, as female under-representation negatively impacts economic growth and gender equality. Effective strategies to address this involve supporting maths participation and confidence in young females.
Founding donors, Professor Tim Brown and Catriona De Vere says the scholarships are to honour the legacies of Ethel (“Elsie”) Yuille and Catherine Mary (“Maimie”) Umbers, grandmothers of the donors, aimed at empowering future generations of women through educational opportunities. They also honour their mothers, Pamela Hudson and June De Vere.
“All four women showed remarkable resilience and independence in overcoming huge challenges, empowering us with the love of education knowing that learning would transform our lives”, say Catriona and Tim. “It is wonderful for us to offer these opportunities inspired by all four women’s remarkable generosity, certain that the highest level of mathematics education will open many doors for the recipients.”
AMSI Foundation Chairman, Dr Les Trudzik says by fostering the growth of female mathematical capabilities, the Yuille-Umbers Scholarship aims to build self-confidence and empower young women to participate in driving innovation and progress essential for Australia’s future.
“Having witnessed the tremendous impact that STEM scholarships can have on the lives young women, not only in improving access to otherwise unattainable study but also in opening up the wide range of career possibilities, I am delighted that the AMSI Foundation has the privilege of administering the AMSI Yuille-Umbers Secondary School Scholarships on behalf of the founding donors, Professor Tim Brown and Catriona De Vere, and thank them for their generous support of the mathematical sciences.”
By investing in these students, we invest in a more inclusive and forward-thinking society.
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For interview:
Professor Tim Marchant, Director, Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute
To arrange interviews or for more information please contact:
Sarah Ramantanis: Media Advisor, Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute
M: 0478 893 183 E: media@amsi.org.au
