Curtin University is now taking applications for the Leighton Contractors John Jones Indigenous Scholarship for 2013, an initiative to support and encourage undergraduate Indigenous Australians in their university studies.
The scholarship honours the late John Jones, who worked with Leighton Contractors and its wholly-owned subsidiary HWE Mining for more than 30 years.
Mr Jones held general manager positions with both companies and was a highly respected industry figure and mentor. He was also instrumental in establishing Leighton Contractors’ commitments to Indigenous communities through partnerships, sponsorships and employment and training initiatives.
Valued at more than $10,000, the scholarship will be offered to two current Indigenous Curtin students who are enrolled full time in an undergraduate degree, with preference given to students undertaking studies in the areas of science, engineering or humanities, as well as those in the Curtin Business School.
Dr Elizabeth Henry, Manager of the Curtin University Scholarships Office, Student Services, said the Leighton Contractors John Jones Indigenous Scholarship will provide valuable support to the selected students.
“The Curtin Scholarships Office is very pleased to assist Leighton Contractors with this great initiative and we are looking forward to working with them,” Dr Henry said.
“The scholarship will provide Indigenous students with not only significant financial support during their studies, but also the opportunity to gain valuable work experience.”
Craig Laslett, Managing Director at Leighton Contractors, said the company was proud to honour John Jones’ vision and further the company’s commitment to providing greater opportunities for Indigenous people.
“We are a proud contributor to Indigenous communities and a strong advocate for Indigenous participation and equality, and John’s vision is at the very heart of that,” he said.
“Our partnership with Curtin University will not only provide financial support but mentoring and leadership development, and the support and training needed to further develop the students’ skills.”
The scholarship consists of an annual $10,000 payment based on full time enrolment to assist with costs associated with studying.
The scholarship will also provide:
• Travel assistance (to Perth) if a student is from a remote area;
• Work experience pertaining to their degree, as part of Leighton Contractors Cadetship Program; and,
• Access to Leighton Contractors mentoring and leadership development programs.
Students can now apply for the Leighton Contractors John Jones Indigenous Scholarship online at http://scholarships.curtin.edu.au/.
ENDS
Media contacts:
Dr Elizabeth Henry, Manager, Curtin University Scholarships Office, Student Services
Tel: 9266 1936, Email: e.henry@curtin.edu.au
Kate Selth, Public Relations, Curtin University
Tel: 08 9266 3353, Email: kate.selth@curtin.edu.au, Web: http://curtin.edu.au
Erin McGrath, Communications Manager, Leighton Contractors
Tel: 0431 085 479, Email: erin.mcgrath@leicon.com.au, Web: www.leightoncontractors.com.au
