Annual Appeal

The Harriet Nixon Scholarship Appeal

Burgmann College is honoured to announce our 2024 Annual Appeal to establish The Harriet Nixon Scholarship; an endowed scholarship—inspired by Harriet Nixon—for residents from rural, regional, or remote Australia who otherwise would not have a financial opportunity to attend Burgmann College and study at the ANU.

Burgmann alumna Harriet Nixon (resident 2015–2016) was an extraordinary young woman. Harriet had been working alongside other Burgmann residents and friends at a music festival when she lost her life in tragic circumstances. We are honoured to share Harriet’s story, in loving remembrance, and to highlight her inspirational legacy as a treasured friend and a valued member of the Burgmann College community. Establishing a scholarship in Harriet's name is a truly fitting tribute to her legacy of generosity and support. To have known Harriet was to be graced with her warmth, kindness, and the unmistakable presence she brought into every room.

The Burgmann College built in 1971 was a response to the mood of youth at a unique moment in Australian history, mirroring the contemporary groundswell of young people taking charge of their destinies, and empowering them to be socially conscious and capable young adults within the safety of a deeply supportive environment. The Burgmann College of the 21st century remains true to these ideals—profoundly committed to every resident achieving their highest potential, academically and personally, emphasising individual freedom and growth alongside collegiate commitment, responsibility and contribution.

At Burgmann, we believe that students from all backgrounds should have equal access to education and opportunity. This is a value that Burgmann College holds dear and has been a part of our foundation since we were established. Regional students have always been an important part of our community and culture; however, due to financial challenges such as the rising cost of living, it is increasingly difficult for students from regional Australia to move away from home to access higher education.

The Harriet Nixon Scholarship will specifically support students from rural, regional, and remote Australia including first-in-family students, Indigenous students, and students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds, granting $10,000 per year, indexed over time, to ease financial hardship and provide access to education that might have otherwise been impossible.

By empowering students from regional areas to attend university, we are nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators and change-makers who will contribute to building a bright and more equitable future for all. However, we can only do this with your support.

We invite you to join us in establishing The Harriet Nixon Scholarship.

Banner photo: Harriet at Hokitika Gorge, NZ