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Philanthropist’s legacy gift to support future generations of nurses

A long-time supporter of ACU’s School of Nursing has pledged a bequest valued at more than $1.4 million, creating a legacy that will continue to support the education of nurses for generations to come.

Ms Curran’s generous gift follows almost a decade of impact through an annual scholarship for nursing students. The scholarship has so far supported 14 students to pursue their passion for nursing, helping cover study costs and regional clinical placements.

Ms Curran said the decision to include ACU’s School of Nursing in her will was driven by a belief in the transformative power of education and the vital role played by nurses across the country.

“About 13 years ago, I was critically ill. I was in a coma for six weeks and spent three months at North Shore Hospital,” Ms Curran said.

“During my time in hospital, I was nursed back to health by ACU students.

“As a nurse, you see people at their worst, and I was determined to help those who are dedicated to helping others.”

Ms Curran grew up in rural Ireland in the 1960s and migrated to Australia in the early 1980s. After a busy and successful working life, she is relishing the opportunity to give back.

“It’s a wonderful experience to meet the scholarship recipients and see their dedication to nursing. I am happy that my small gift helps them on their way,” she said.

“Now I have an opportunity to help others in their careers, and it’s a great way to see how your donation can make a difference.”

Second-year nursing student and 2025 scholarship recipient Michael Read said the extra support had allowed him to undertake a regional placement in Lismore.

“I was juggling working full-time hours at St Vincent’s Hospital in East Lismore, studying for my university exams and meeting travel costs. Without the money from the scholarship, I would not have had the funds to sustain myself,” he said.

“The placement has sparked a passion for rural healthcare that I hope will translate into my professional career.”

Fellow 2025 scholarship recipient Monique Wacher said it helped her cover tuition costs and free up more time for study.

“This has allowed me to focus on my nursing degree without the constant worry of financial constraints,” she said.

“It has allowed me to scale back on work and devote more time to my course work and improving my academic performance.

“It also enabled me to do a rural placement in Dubbo, where I’ll spend a month in the medical ward getting hands-on experience.

“I’m so grateful to Ms Curran for her generosity and belief in students like me.”

Director of Advancement Janosh Biczok said the new bequest reflected Ms Curran’s deep commitment to ACU’s mission and its place at the forefront of health education.

“This extraordinary gift will have a lasting impact, not just for our students, but for the communities they serve,” Mr Biczok said.

“We’re grateful to Ms Curran for her generosity in helping our nursing program go from strength to strength.

“One generous act can inspire another, and she is hoping her gift will encourage others to step forward and make a difference.”

The $1.4 million bequest will create an endowment to fund annual nursing student scholarships and a capital project for the School of Nursing, helping ACU students deliver compassionate, quality care.

ACU offers a wide range of scholarships and bursaries which provide financial assistance to students. To find out how you can make a difference, visit Giving to ACU.