Circle of Champions

A commitment to the future of the Academy, and the humanities in Australia.

A message from the President

“Philanthropy provides crucial support to the Academy’s strategic work to advance the place of the humanities at the heart of national life, recognising their value in deepening Australia’s engagement with the world and indispensable role in addressing the pressing global challenges of the 21st century.

While government funding provides an essential foundation, it rarely covers the full breadth of strategic work that a Learned Academy undertakes — from supporting early-career researchers and funding public lectures, to advocating for the humanities in national policy debates.

The Circle of Champions is a group of generous donors amongst the Academy Fellowship that enable the Academy to pursue ambitious, long-term programs that contribute to the endurance and excellence of the humanities in Australia.”

Professor Stephen Garton AM FAHA FASSA
Academy President

Patron

We are honoured to have Professor Wang Gungwu AO FAHA as Patron of the Circle of Champions.

Prof Wang’s connection to the Academy spans more than five decades, including as President from 1980 to 1983 — making him a fitting and inspiring champion for its philanthropic future.

One of the world’s foremost historians of China and Southeast Asia East Asia Forum, Prof Wang’s life’s work exemplifies precisely the kind of scholarship the Academy exists to nurture and celebrate.

As Patron, Prof Wang lends his distinguished achievement and personal conviction to the importance of securing a flourishing future for the humanities in Australia.

It is an honour to once again support the Academy, this time as Patron of the Circle of Champions. I am pleased the Academy continues to uphold the vision and objects of its Charter — steadfast in advancing the humanities for Australia and the world, a mission as important now as it has ever been.

Professor Wang Gungwu AO FAHA