Emmanuel College is delighted to announce the establishment of a new scholarship honouring Graham Thomson AM (EMC 1947), an alumnus who has made a significant contribution to education and to the broader community over many decades.
Graham’s teaching career began as a trainee at Thornburgh and Blackheath Colleges, Charters Towers, and during his career he taught at Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) and the Phillips Academy, Massachusetts, USA. He was appointed Principal of Thornburgh and Blackheath Colleges in 1956 and took on the headmaster’s role at BBC in 1974. In 1995 Graham’s service to education was officially recognised when he was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia.
An inspiration for many students over the years, Graham continues to engender deep respect for his achievements. This inspiration and respect have been major catalysts in the founding of the Graham Thomson Scholarship at Emmanuel, an initiative of the College which has been warmly embraced by BBC Old Boys John Wylie AM and Michael Wood.
John’s and Michael’s generosity has made Emmanuel College life, and the benefits it brings, a game-changing possibility for a BBC student who wants to study at university and live in a nurturing environment, but does not have the means to live away from home. The Graham Thomson Scholarship will be awarded to a former BBC student who shows sound academic ability and performance, exhibits leadership qualities and positive peer support, has a keen interest in sport and/or cultural activities, and has made a contribution to the community.
Graham said, “In my professional career I have been offered the opportunity and the privilege of playing a part in the development years of teenage boys and girls. It has been my passion and, in itself, my reward. However, I am honoured and humbled to have my name associated with a new scholarship which will offer a past student of Brisbane Boys’ College the opportunity of studying at The University of Queensland while in residence at such a fine institution as my alma mater, Emmanuel College. I wish to acknowledge my deep and grateful appreciation to Dr Stewart Gill OAM, who conceived having a scholarship in my name, as well as to John Wylie AM and Michael Wood, who gave their generous support to the establishment of this prestigious award.”
Emmanuel College offers up to $500,000 in scholarships and bursaries annually to assist deserving university students. The Graham Thomson Scholarship is one of a number funded through philanthropic donations honouring Emmanuel College alumni and community members, leaving a legacy of inspiration for years to come.
