Helping students and building a diverse, inclusive community

The Bill Packard Scholarship aims to help ease the financial burden of study by covering accommodation expenses at Bruce Hall, an Australian National University (ANU) residence situated on the beautiful Acton campus in Canberra.

Established in memory of the founding warden, William (Bill) Packard AM, as part of the Bruce Hall 50th anniversary celebrations in 2011, the scholarship supports an undergraduate student's accommodation expenses at the iconic residence for three consecutive years.

"The Bill Packard Scholarship helps students experience on-campus residence, who otherwise would not - that is my focus, that is why I donate," says John Haasz, donor to the Bill Packard Scholarship and former Bruce Hall resident.

The Rotary Club of Belconnen is another dedicated donor, providing financial bursaries to Bruce Hall students for almost four decades.

"This has been a fulfilling experience for Club members and we are delighted at the calibre of students selected to receive the bursaries, and of their appreciation, interest and work," says the spokesperson for the Rotary Club of Belconnen.

A true hub for scholars, where individualism is respected and excellence in all things is encouraged, the experience of living at Bruce Hall lays strong leadership foundations. Many Bruce Hall alumni enjoy successful careers in the judiciary, Parliament, leading universities and the corporate world.

"Bruce Hall was full of amazing people whom I could turn to for both emotional and academic support, as well as for fun and laughter," says Bill Packard Scholarship recipient, Elisa Donato. "Six years on, my closest friends are all students who also lived at Bruce Hall. I continue to make very fond memories with the Bruce Hall community.

"I want to express my sincere thanks to donors. Your kindness and generosity have enriched my university experience."