For more than 160 years, Wesley College has been shaped not only by outstanding educators and students, but by generations of people who believed deeply in the power of education to strengthen society.
Philanthropy has always been part of Wesley’s story. From the earliest benefactors who helped establish the College in 1866, to the transformational generosity of the Nicholas family during the Great Depression, our history reminds us that Wesley has been built by a community willing to invest in future generations.
The contribution of George and Alfred Nicholas remains one of the defining examples of this spirit. Their support transformed the St Kilda Road Campus during a period of immense economic hardship. Their philanthropy did more than create buildings; it created employment, opportunity and hope.
The legacy they left continues to shape student’s lives nearly a century later.
Importantly, their vision reflected something enduring about Wesley philanthropy. Giving was never viewed as charity, but as an investment in people, character, leadership and community.
That belief remains just as relevant today.
Across the College, we continue to see extraordinary generosity from Old Wesley Collegians, parents, grandparents, staff and friends who understand that the strength of Wesley lies not only in its academic program or facilities, but in the opportunities it creates for young people to grow into thoughtful, capable and compassionate citizens.
Scholarships remain one of the clearest expressions of this purpose.
A Wesley scholarship changes more than one life. It strengthens families and communities while ensuring talented students of character and promise can access the opportunities a Wesley education provides, regardless of financial circumstance. It broadens perspectives in our classrooms, enriches our culture and reinforces the values of inclusion and shared responsibility at the heart of the College.
This year, the Foundation’s Annual Giving program and Giving Day initiative will focus on expanding means-tested scholarships for students and families who would otherwise not be able to access a Wesley education. This work is not symbolic; it is practical, immediate and life-changing.
The Wesley College Foundation exists to help power that future.
Importantly, philanthropy at Wesley is evolving. Increasingly, supporters are engaging with the College through long term partnerships and shared vision. Families are thinking carefully about the legacy they wish to leave for future generations of students they may never meet.
Because ultimately, philanthropy at Wesley is not simply about buildings or campaigns. It is about people, opportunity and the future of our community. Through the Nicholas Circle, which recognises transformational gifts of $1 million or more, and the Sapere Aude Bequest Society, which honours those who have remembered Wesley in their Will, supporters are helping shape endowed scholarships, student wellbeing initiatives, learning programs and future campus development – ensuring Wesley remains both ambitious and accessible for generations of students to come.
As we mark Wesley’s 160th anniversary, there is a growing sense that philanthropy will play an increasingly important role in the future of the College. Not simply to fund projects, but to celebrate what makes Wesley distinctive: a commitment to educating the whole person and developing young people who understand their responsibility to others.
The Foundation is deeply grateful to every member of the Wesley community who contributes to this shared vision. Ultimately, philanthropy at Wesley is about investing in character, opportunity and community so future generations of students can continue to learn, contribute and lead with purpose.
Marianne Stillwell
Chair, Wesley College Foundation