27 Mar 2023
Loreto Toorak Alumna, Margaret Pratt (Whitty, 1977), was diagnosed with primary pulmonary hypertension in 1993. She was the first person in Australia to undergo three double-lung transplants. Sadly, Margaret died in 2009 as a result of organ rejection. Close friend, past Loreto Toorak staff member, and current Board Member, Dr Lesley Gillespie OAM and her husband Dr Roger Gillespie OAM, wanted to honour Margaret’s memory by endowing a Science Scholarship in her name.
Margaret Pratt Science Scholarship
First awarded in 2008, the Margaret Pratt Science Scholarship recognises and rewards a student of Loreto Toorak with conscientious interest and ability in the area of Science. Awarded on their final year of study, the endowment supports a student’s plans to undertake a career or further study in a Scientific or Medical Research area, accompanied by the hope of raising awareness of the work of the Margaret Pratt Foundation Heart Lung Transplant Trust, now known as the Lungitude Foundation.
The 2022 Recipient is Theodora W (Year 12)
2022 Margaret Pratt Science Scholarship Recipient Theodora W (Year 12) with Dr Lesley Gillespie OAM and Dr Roger Gillespie OAM
Inaugural Margaret Pratt Science Prize
In 2022, Margaret’s widower, Tony Pratt, conveyed his wish to add his financial support to that of the Gillespie's by creating a Margaret Pratt Science Prize to be awarded to high-achieving VCE Science students. Both the Gillespie’s and Mr Pratt acknowledge the growing breadth of opportunities for women in Science-related careers and are proud to provide financial incentive to encourage Loreto Toorak students to take up these opportunities.
The Inaugural Recipient is Hasanya R M (2022), who commenced her studies in Biomedical Science at Monash University this year.
Inaugural Margaret Pratt Science Prize Recipient Hasanya (2022) with Mr Tony Pratt
If you would like to discuss the possibility of supporting a Loreto Toorak education through a donation to our Scholarship Fund, please contact our Director of Engagement Judy Reid via email (judy.reid@loretotoorak.vic.edu.au) or phone (8290 7540).