Sisters’ bequest makes ‘meaningful contribution’ to First Nations health programs

A bequest from sisters Alison Jackson and Nancy Kingsland is helping First Nations medical students at Charles Darwin University (CDU) pursue their studies and prepare to serve their communities.

The sisters left $1 million to CDU for remote health programs.

In keeping with their wishes, CDU has committed $300,000 to two CDU Menzies Medical Program Scholarships (CMMPS): $150,000 for a student commencing in 2026 and a further $150,000 for a student commencing in 2027.

The remaining $700,000 will support other First Nations programs.

The recipient of this year's CMMPS, Heather Cubillo-Mulholland, said she felt very lucky to have received the support.

"I have always wanted to make a meaningful contribution to my community and improve health outcomes for my mob," Ms Cubillo-Mulholland said.

"By the time I chose to come back to university, I couldn't have survived paying a mortgage and raising children without scholarships and help.

"When I saw the scholarship, I thought, I have to get this, because it means I don't have to work and I won't have financial stress."

"I feel like I've been very lucky with my journey so far into this program.

"The students in the medical program all have different upbringings, experiences and support.

"Being a First Nations woman, having experienced poverty and overcrowding means I may be able to better understand the communities I will serve."

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said the donation has created many opportunities for students that wouldn't be possible without donor funding.

"The generosity of donors to the University makes an extraordinary difference," Professor Coulson said.

"The donations we receive have the potential to benefit many generations of students, teaching staff and researchers."

This year 26 donor-funded scholarships were offered to First Nations students across health, medicine, education, STEM, TAFE, social Science, and arts.

Of these, 11 scholarships were open only to First Nations students.

To find out how you can contribute to initiatives, scholarships and programs at CDU, visit: Giving | Charles Darwin University.