Hughes Society

When you leave a philanthropic gift to the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ in your Will, you are investing in the future success of our students, research and community.

After notifying the University that you have included a gift in your Will, you will be invited to join the Hughes Society which acknowledges and thanks legacy donors for their foresight and generosity.

Hughes Society members are invited to attend the annual Hughes Society Luncheon and special events, and a complimentary Gold Pass to the Elder Conservatorium Lunchtime Concert Series.ÌýMembers have the opportunity to meet academics, researchers and students who benefit from gifts in Wills.

The Society’s activities are supported by the Hughes Society Advisory Committee, which comprises eight dedicated legacy donors who actively support the Hughes Society’s growth and promote gifts in Wills to the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ.

  • Dr Michael John Llewellyn-Smith AM KStJ JP, Chair
    Dr Michael Llewellyn-Smith

    Michael holds an MA and Ph.D. from the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ and is also a graduate of Cambridge and Sydney Universities. He has served as Chair of the former Alumni Association and on the University Council.Ìý Michael has been a member of the Hughes Society since 2019 and supports the Augustus Short Scholarship.Ìý He is also a Board of Benefactors member. Michael became an Alumni Fellow in 2012, was awarded an AM in the 2013 New Year’s Honours, and received the Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2019.ÌýMichael has had a career in Architecture, Town Planning and City Management. He has workedÌýin both the private and public sectors in the UK, Canada, Poland, Sri Lanka and South Africa, as well as throughout Australia.

  • Mrs Stella Braund, Deputy Chair
    Stella Braund pictured in Nexus 10

    Stella attended the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ, studying at the Elder Conservatorium of Music. Following a scholarship offer to study in Europe and living overseas for several years, Stella returned to Sydney and pursued a career in psychology and social services, aiding the Federal Government to establish the 1800 Respect Helpline. Stella is as a mental health advocate and holds positions on an array of committees and boards for SA Health at several Local Health Networks in South Australia.


    Stella has been a Hughes Committee member since 2021 and strongly believes education is the key to success.ÌýKnowledge unlocks opportunities and narrows inequalities, allowing individuals to achieve better possibilities in career advancement and personal growth. The benefits of education are many. Not only in terms of the personal benefits individuals receive at the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ, including career progression, skill development and employment opportunities, but the contribution and benefits to society and the community, are invaluable. The students of today are the future leaders of tomorrow.

  • Dr Sindy Millington
    A portrait of Dr Sindy Millington

    Sindy has over 30 yearsÌýcardiovascular and