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Alumni! – Join our Facebook Group
March 17, 2025
Tag: News Page
Dr. Marsilea Harrison – Alumni Stories
March 7, 2025
For Dr. Marsilea Harrison, education has always been more than just a pathway to a career – it has been a gateway to discovery, personal growth, and a lifetime of opportunities. As a scientist, her academic journey has taken her across the globe, connecting her with like-minded peers and shaping both her professional and personal life.
“Education has helped me answer the curious questions I had about the world around me,” she reflects. “It allowed me to find what I enjoyed, and what I didn’t enjoy, and ultimately understand myself better. It also introduced me to lifelong friends from around the world and even gave me the opportunity to work overseas.”
Winning a discretionary award from the Kate Edger Foundation during her time at the University of Auckland (whilst studying a Doctorate of Philosophy in Chemistry and Forensic science) was a pivotal moment in her academic journey. While the financial support was invaluable, it was the recognition itself that had the greatest impact.
“I struggled with confidence in myself, and gaining the award helped me to feel braver,” she says. “It encouraged me to continue striving for excellence in my education.”
Now working as a senior research and development scientist, she applies the knowledge and skills gained throughout her education daily. Beyond technical expertise, she has also dedicated herself to supporting others in their academic and professional journeys, engaging in outreach to local communities, schools, and universities.
“I’ve had many conversations with early-career researchers finishing their undergraduate or postgraduate studies, helping them navigate the decision between academia and industry. I’ve been part of both, and actively strive to share my experiences to help others.”
She deeply values the work of the Kate Edger Foundation in empowering women through education and believes there is even more potential for impact. “What you are doing is fantastic—awareness, empowerment, and relieving financial stress all make a huge difference.”
Her advice for current and future scholarship applicants is simple but powerful: Believe in yourself and embrace the opportunities that come your way. Your education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about growth, confidence, and opening doors to a future you might not have imagined possible.
Dr. Susan Nemec (BA, MA, PhD) – Alumni Stories
February 11, 2025
From Auckland to Africa: A Journey of Empowerment
Dr. Susan Nemec (BA, MA, PhD), a proud alumna of Kate Edger Foundation and the University of Auckland (UoA) with qualifications centered around Media and Communication, exemplifies how education can transform lives and communities. Reflecting on her academic journey, Susan shared that pursuing her PhD enabled her to critically engage with civic society and take practical steps toward creating a more sustainable and just world.
In 2006, Susan was awarded the Tressa Thomas Retraining Award from the Kate Edger Foundation. This financial award helped contribute in supporting her pursuit of academic excellence and professional growth. She recalls feeling deeply supported by the scholarship, particularly as her research at the time diverged from the university’s primary areas of focus.
Currently, Susan works at the University of Auckland Business School, where her career has focused on empowering Women, Māori, and Pasifika students. Her role as an educator and mentor underscores her belief in the transformative power of education. She credits her scholarship as a significant stepping stone in her journey, providing crucial support during a pivotal time.
Beyond academia, Susan is deeply involved in social justice and Treaty education as well as being involved in a ‘Project Moroto’ a programme in Uganda, assisting young women with their business ideas. She also takes pride in inspiring her two daughters, who are making their mark in the fields of medicine and business.
Dr. Susan Nemec’s story reminds us that education is a lifelong journey that extends its impact well beyond the classroom.
Sonakssi Ramilan – Awardee Speaker 2024
October 9, 2024
Kia ora and Vanakkam,
My name is Sona and it is an absolute honour to be here as the recipient of the Women in Medicine Award, and a privilege to see the strength and support here today.
This afternoon, I’ve been asked to share my journey and aspirations, so I’ll start with a bit about myself.
I am a fifth-year student, one year away from completing a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Auckland. I’m currently doing clinical placements, rotating through hospitals and specialties.
I’ve spent most of 2024 in the Counties Manukau District with placement at Middlemore Hospital being an eye opening experience, delving into diagnoses, diversity, and the systemic disparities that affect many in the region. As I move closer towards becoming a doctor, the balance between humanistic qualities and practical skills continues to amaze me with each specialty being uniquely empowering.
Being a science-oriented learner and a people person, going into health simply seemed to make sense. Since a young age, I’ve seen the difference doctors can make and I wanted to share my kindness and passion in such a way to help people when they’re most vulnerable. Many say Medical School isn’t easy, but it’s a rewarding challenge that has helped me grow through my early years of adulthood while simultaneously living life to the fullest with friends, family, and extracurriculars.
Every day is different, and being in such a career path is beyond a privilege as strangers trust you with the hope of health and healing. There’s always more to see, learn and do. This week, I’ve spent a day around those with intellectual disabilities, a few in the emergency department, and time with outreach immunisations as part of my paediatrics rotation. It’s inspiring to see the variety in career choices filled with ambition seen within this room, with Kate Edger and The Graduation Place bringing us together to celebrate success in the past, present, and future.
As a doctor, I hope to empower and educate my patients, colleagues, and friends both within and outside the medical field. Being born in Sri Lanka, and raised in Aotearoa, Australia, and India has curated a passion for creating change on an international scale. As I advance in medicine, I want to combine my passion for creating systems level change with my interest in practical work to make a difference for my patients, communities, and wider populations as a future leader.
Throughout my 5 years at Uni, I’ve seen the unequal representation of females in leadership and surgical fields and being a Director for the Women in Health Network empowered me to consider this. The Women in Medicine Award resonates this idea and has supported me as I continue to work towards success in the field as a young, female, Kiwi Sri Lankan doctor in training. I’ll end by saying a huge thank you to the Kate Edger Foundation, and I’m excited to see the multidisciplinary talent in this room shape the future of Aotearoa.
Kind regards,
Sonakssi Ramilan
Samantha Vehikite – Bed, Bath & Beyond graduate
June 18, 2024
One of three annual awards generously sponsored by Bed, Bath & Beyond, this $5,000 award is to assist a woman enrolled in a three-year degree course at the Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).
Samantha Vehikite pictured (right) with Carolyn Brown from Bed, Bath & Beyond and Nina Tomaszyk from Kate Edger Foundation received the inaugural award in 2019 as she was about to embark on a 3 year Bachelor of Nursing degree with MIT. Samantha says that receiving the award played a huge role in achieving her goal of becoming a nurse.
” From a young age, I was never set on a career pathway and continued to change my mind however, my desire and passion to improve people’s lives and provide support to those in need never changed. A career path in Nursing enabled me to fulfill this drive and passion.
Completing my bachelor’s degree has come with its challenges, especially with the limitations of COVID-19, but it also enabled me to increase my drive and passion and has deepened my love for nursing significantly. “
Samantha finished her degree at the beginning of December and is now officially a Registered Nurse, a dream come true after 3 years of hard work and dedication. She has also been offered her dream job of surgical nursing at Middlemore Hospital, beginning in 2023.
” Since beginning my degree, I have experienced many amazing opportunities and experiences that have inspired and driven me as well as made me fall in love with this career pathway. These experiences have enabled me to see life and how quickly it can change and as a result has made me thankful for all the opportunities open to me. I want to thank the Kate Edger Foundation and Bed, Bath & Beyond for allowing me the opportunity to be a recipient of this scholarship and for your amazing support towards me throughout.”
Kate Edger given honorary doctorate
September 20, 2023
Press Release: University of Auckland
Published 19 September
A trailblazer for women in higher education, Kate Milligan Edger has been given a posthumous honorary doctorate from Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland as part of its 140th anniversary commemorations.
Some extraordinary New Zealanders are being acknowledged for their contributions to education, the University of Auckland and the wider community, with the first posthumous honorary doctorates ever conferred by the University.
Jill Smith, the granddaughter of suffragette and women’s rights advocate Kate Edger (1857 – 1935), accepted an Honorary Doctor of Literature on behalf of the woman whose name adorns the University’s Student Information Commons at the University’s spring graduation ceremony on 19 September, the 130th anniversary of women’s suffrage in Aotearoa.
On 11 July 1877, Kate Milligan Edger became the first woman in New Zealand to gain a university degree and the first woman in the British Empire to receive a Bachelor of Arts (Mathematics and Latin). At her graduation, more than a thousand people turned out to witness the occasion; Kate the only woman on the stage.
Jill says she’d be absolutely amazed at seeing today’s vast arena with thousands of male and female graduates, and knowing that today, almost 60 percent of students at the University identify as women.
“By overcoming the significant barriers women faced to pursue higher education and lead independent lives, Kate Edger blazed a trail for many others to follow,” she says.
Kate always felt that education was not just about the acquisition of knowledge for its own sake, says Jill, but should also build up the student’s moral character and that intellectual training would make “true women, when it is combined with the training of the heart and the soul”.
“She would be very, very proud that the university is honouring her with this degree and would be grateful, as am I; a proud granddaughter whom she has inspired, as she has with so many women over the years.”
Kate Milligan Edger: the first woman in the British Empire to receive a Bachelor of Arts in 1877.
Kate was born in Berkshire, England and with her family, emigrated to New Zealand in 1862. Her father, Reverend Samuel Edger, had ideas about female education and emancipation that were radical for his time; Kate and her three sisters were raised in a household where young women were encouraged to develop their minds, not just their marriage potential.
The young Edger girls were initially educated by their father at home, but later he obtained permission from the headmaster of Auckland College and Grammar School (now Auckland Grammar School) for Kate to study with its top class of boys.
As the only female in the class, Kate said she was treated with courtesy by the other students but was required to enter the class “with downcast eyes” so as not to attract undue attention.
In 1874, she successfully passed a university scholarship exam and enrolled at university using only her initials, ‘K. M. Edger.’ She was admitted because it was assumed she was a man.
After completing her BA at Auckland and her MA at Canterbury College, she was appointed the first principal of Nelson College for Girls where she taught English grammar, composition and literature, physical science, Latin, mathematics, singing and geography, as well as preparing senior girls for university scholarships.
After her marriage to William Evans, and move to Wellington, she combined running a private school for girls, adult literacy classes, examining for university entrance, suffrage and temperance activities and community work.
She strongly supported women’s suffrage and until the early 1930s, was active in the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. She was also heavily involved in the New Zealand Society for the Protection of Women and Children and the National Council of Women and was awarded the King’s Silver Jubilee Medal shortly before her death in May, 1935.
Throughout her life, Kate Edger was a champion for quality education for girls and women and was an active suffragist. She firmly believed that women’s active participation in all aspects of public life and politics would help improve society.
“Kate would be so very pleased that her life work in the education of women, and her work in the political, social and humanities had been so recognised,” says Jill.
“She would be so encouraged that women have taken their place in society, equal with men – especially having female prime ministers.
“Although I do think she would be puzzled why it’s taking so long to achieve pay parity with men. And I’m sure she would be horrified that her work with the Society for the Protection of Women and Children was still not resolved, and in fact the situation appears to have worsened.”
University of Auckland Provost, Professor Valerie Linton, says the University today is built upon the work and the academic hurdles overcome by those who have gone before.
“We are committed to accelerating our progress towards gender equity, in this, our 140th year. We are inspired by Kate Edger, and proud to acknowledge her legacy with an honorary degree.”
In 2005, the New Zealand Federation of Graduate Women renamed its Auckland branch after Kate Edger.
The Kate Edger Educational Charitable Trust is devoted to advancing women in higher education across all academic disciplines and has provided more than $6 million in donations to students for fees, expenses and retraining.
And in 2003, the University of Auckland opened the Kate Edger Information Commons. Located in the student quad on City Campus, it’s regarded internationally as an innovative teaching and learning environment and a proud legacy of its namesake.
Mira Askari – Awardee Speaker 2023
September 14, 2023
ia ora koutou, ko akbara te maunga, ko urdun te awa, ko al jalil te moana, ko tamaki toku kainga, no falesteen a iraq ahau, ko askari toku whanau, ko Mira toku ingoa.
It is with immense gratitude and humility that I stand before you today as a recipient of the Kate Edger Women in Law Award. I am truly honored to represent not only myself but also the exceptional group of awardees who share a common aspiration – the pursuit of education with a purpose. This award resonates deeply with the values upheld by the Trust’s remarkable namesake, Kate Edger, a visionary advocate of women’s education and empowerment.
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the pivotal role that Kate Edger’s legacy has played in shaping my path. I stand here not merely as a recipient of an award, but as a product of the ideals that Kate Edger personified – the belief that education goes beyond the boundaries of the classroom and equips us with the tools to create a better world.
Kate Edger’s unwavering dedication to women’s education and her advocacy for change through civic engagement deeply resonate with the work I am privileged to do today. The legal profession, much like Kate’s fight for suffrage, holds the power to effect transformative change. Just as she championed women’s rights through education and civic participation, I see the legal field as a conduit for justice and progress. In a world where equality and justice are not always guaranteed, I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard, to uphold the principles of fairness and equality that Kate herself held dear.
In addition to my studies, I’m deeply committed to making a positive impact in the law school community. As a co-Equity Officer at the Law School, I engage in addressing student equity issues both in the law school and beyond. Working closely with the Faculty equity staff, I ensure that the concerns of our diverse student body are heard and acted upon effectively. I’m proud to lead the Equity Council, which brings together various Law School equity groups like Māori, Pasifika, Asian, and Rainbow law clubs. Through this collaborative effort, we’re striving to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities and bring about fairness.
Part of my job is also connecting directly with fellow law students to ensure their equity-related concerns are properly addressed by the Faculty. This means building an inclusive and supportive environment within the law school, which is both challenging and fulfilling. My role as an Equity Officer lets me contribute to creating a better experience for diverse law students, something I deeply value.
Outside of my Equity Officer role, my passion for humanitarian causes drives me to participate in groups like Amnesty on Campus and Student Justice for Palestine. These opportunities have allowed me to actively advocate for human rights and raise awareness about crucial social justice issues. I’ve also been fortunate to contribute to campaigns promoting equality for marginalized communities.
When Kate Edger boldly applied for a university scholarship under the gender-neutral initials K. Edger, she exemplified courage and determination that continues to inspire. Her determination to learn and excel in a predominantly male academic environment is a testament to the perseverance that resides within us all. In a field like law, it’s common to battle imposter syndrome, feeling inadequate or out of place. However, just like Kate Edger’s pioneering spirit, we must rise above these doubts. Remember, our unique voices and perspectives are essential for reshaping the legal landscape.
Kate Edger’s legacy extends far beyond her own achievements; it lives on through the lives she touched and the ideals she instilled. The values she upheld, emphasizing intellectual achievement, humility, and public service, continue to shape generations of women striving to make a difference. Her legacy is evident not only in the halls of academia but also in the very fabric of society, as women like me endeavor to break barriers and drive positive change.
Today, as I accept this award with gratitude in my heart, I extend my appreciation to the Kate Edger Trust Board for recognizing the potential in each of us and for keeping Kate Edger’s vision alive through this remarkable initiative. This award is not merely a recognition of my personal accomplishments; it is a recognition of the collective potential that education and determination hold to shape a brighter future.
2023 The KEECT Awards Photo Gallery
September 4, 2023
All photos from the 2023 Kate Edger Trust Awards Ceremony are available to view and download for free
thanks to Timeless Images Photography
View the 2023 Awards Ceremony photo gallery here
UK Donor Funds Master of Music Therapy Award
June 7, 2023
Mr. Ellis Coxon graduated in Chemistry from the University of Durham in 1983 and became a qualified secondary school teacher in 1984. His first teaching assignment involved instructing Chemistry to 300 students aged 11 to 16, some of who were classes of students with special needs.
The UK education system at that time had no special education policies in place and teaching a theoretical subject to students who struggled with basic literacy skills proved challenging. He describes how their lack of engagement led to them “taking great delight in misusing the acid , glass and fire involved in any practical work”. The difficulties he encountered in this stressful and under resourced classroom environment took a toll on Mr. Coxon’s mental health, resulting in him eventually leaving the teaching profession altogether.
While employed in the Civil Service during the early 1990s, Mr. Coxon happened upon a special needs school nearby. He subsequently spent the following two years volunteering during his extended lunch breaks, working with young adults facing severe and profound learning difficulties. This experience reignited his desire to return to teaching and he completed a Master’s degree in Special Education.
Although obtaining his Master’s degree was a significant accomplishment, once back classroom teaching full time, Mr. Coxon found the bureaucratic focus on why the students didn’t conform to an existing curriculum overshadowed the ability to treat each student as an individual with unique needs.
Ultimately, Mr. Coxon found fulfillment as Chemistry tutor, providing personalised instruction to students on a one-on-one basis in their homes. He retired from full time work in 2016 to care for his elderly mother until her passing in 2021.
As a long-time admirer of the beautiful singing voice of Hayley Westenra, Mr. Coxon discovered that she was a patron of the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust in Auckland, NZ. Learning more about the work of the Trust and the shortage of music therapy teachers, he knew he wanted to help. These discussions led to Mr Coxon sponsoring a second Master of Music Therapy award in partnership with The Kate Edger Trust and The Raukatari Music Therapy Trust.
It is very fitting that the recipient of his award Sarah Byrne, has a teaching background and has come to Music Therapy through her recognition of the power of music in the classroom environment to support children with emotional and behavioral issues.
Both the Kate Edger Trust and Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust are very grateful to Mr Coxon for his generous donation towards Sarah’s music therapy career and the people she will ultimately help.
MusicHelps funds Master of Music Therapy Award
June 6, 2023
MusicHelps is a registered New Zealand charity governed by a board of music loving professionals who lend their expertise and passion to the cause.
They also provide emergency assistance to thousands of music people experiencing hardship and illness through our suite of music support services, including a world first, professional online, on-the-phone and face-to-face counselling service tailored to people who make music possible.
Collaborating with the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust (RMTT) and The Kate Edger Trust to create a special award to support the growth of music therapy practitioners in Aotearoa New Zealand was an obvious partnership for the charity.
This lineup includes NZ music royalty Neil Finn, Lorde, Joel Little and Don McGlashon.
They support hundreds of projects across New Zealand, each using the power of music to change the lives of thousands of New Zealanders in need. This includes music therapy, music programs in respite and palliative care, music education programs (particularly in low decile environments), music programs in prisons and rehabilitation and music in aged care to name but a few initiatives we support.
“Music therapy goes to the very heart of what we do at MusicHelps,” says Chair of MusicHelps, Anthony Healey (right) “The need for talented music therapists and the demand for music therapy is unprecedented, so to support and partner with the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust and The Kate Edger Educational Charitable Trust like this is massive.”
RMTT Executive & Clinical Director, Jen Glover, and the Raukatauri Board, including co-founder Dame Hinewehi Mohi, are particularly excited to have MusicHelps join this growing list of funders given its strong connection to the music industry and ability to reach professional musicians who may be looking for another career pathway. In addition to the financial award, scholarship recipients are provided with a clinical placement and a pathway to employment with Raukatauri, a great source of stability for musicians who are often used to having to make their own way in the industry.
Applications for the award are open for full-time wāhine identifying students studying a Master of Music Therapy programme. The recipient of the award will receive an $8,000 scholarship for one year of study, and if they are in their second year of study, a supported student placement with the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust.
Applications will open on August 1st 2023.