Demonstrations and installations by UNSW students, researchers and educators showcased the impact of donors’ support.
UNSW welcomed major donors and supporters to the Paddington campus on 14 October for a special event to thank them for their generosity and demonstrate the life-changing impact of philanthropy.
By Design showcased projects across education, research and innovation through interactive installations, demonstrations and presentations by UNSW students, researchers and project leaders.
Iconic Robots: Dr Eduardo Benitez Sandoval demonstrates a robotic dog.
Bleron Zajmi speaks to guests about copper's role in aggressive cancers and copper-targeted therapies.
Speaking to guests about the power of their support, Dean of UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture Professor Claire Annesley said the projects on display were a snapshot of work that is supporting communities, tackling global challenges and generating knowledge to create lasting impact.
“Tonight is an opportunity to say thank you to our supporters, advocates and donors. To say thank you and recognise the partnerships you have with us and how they facilitate complex problem-solving and amplifying our impact.
“Your generosity gives our students, researchers and creative practitioners the freedom to explore bold ideas, take risks and pursue opportunities that would be out of reach. Your support expands what is possible.”
Students from AtomCraft demonstrate the world’s first student-led fusion energy device.
Catherine Duong, a fourth-year Law and Psychology student and Gateway scholar, shared the impact UNSW’s donors have had on her own life.
“I hope you can see that your contributions don’t just create programs. They change lives like mine.”
Guests enjoying the displays and demonstrations in the UNSW Paddington campus courtyard.
The power of philanthropy to create possibilities was a theme of the evening.
UNSW Chancellor Warwick Negus AM said: “The University publishes a piece of research every 25 minutes. Some of that addresses societal changes, some is looking at solutions for our big problems. A lot of it requires the help of philanthropy, without which it wouldn’t happen at all. Philanthropy moves the dial.”
Emeritus Chancellor David Gonski AC, who is Chair of UNSW Foundation Limited, noted the impact of generosity on what students and staff at UNSW can achieve.
“That is part of why we’re number one, because we have available to us number one in generosity of people.”
Pictured from left to right, Chief Advancement Officer Lindsay Robinson, Professor John McGhee, Emeritus Professor David Gonski AC, Catherine Duong, Vice-Chancellor & President Professor Attila Brungs AO, Dean UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture Professor Claire Annesley and UNSW Chancellor Mr Warwick Negus AM.
Speaking after the event, Chief Advancement Officer Lindsay Robinson said By Design gave donors and supporters the chance to experience first-hand how their contributions are supporting students, enabling research and innovation, and creating practical solutions and positive societal impact.
“The contributions of our donors are a vital factor in UNSW’s capacity to transform people’s lives through innovative research with real impact, scholarships and inclusive education.”
Find out more about some of the UNSW projects supported by philanthropy and on display at By Design.
Watch highlights of the event.
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