Welcome from Ross Youngman
24 July 2025 — After my first week in the CEO chair, I wanted to reach out to our vibrant and inspiring community – our Scholars in the field, alumni and generous supporters, to say hello and briefly introduce myself. Where possible I look forward to meeting you in person at the earliest opportunity.
I am both proud and excited to step into this role, working with our highly committed and dedicated Executive Team and Board, as well as our local and global alumni and support networks to further strengthen the Foundation’s mission and impact. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of our Foundation and its vital work is personally highly motivating.
In a world facing many complex challenges, I am reminded of our mission “to provide postgraduate scholarships to outstanding Australians to study overseas and to encourage their academic excellence and leadership qualities for the benefit of Australia’s future.”
Supporting and facilitating the development of post-graduate scholars – academically, professionally and personally – is something very close to my heart. Growing up in small-town Tasmania I couldn’t contemplate the possibility that one day I might have the chance to study internationally. My own experience studying at Columbia University and living at the global melting-pot that is International House in New York changed my life for the better, helping build confidence, skills, awareness, empathy, tolerance and perspective. Additionally, my ongoing involvement post-graduation with both institutions and their respective communities has enriched my life in countless ways.
Seeing others also have this opportunity to study internationally is very gratifying. I believe that General Sir John Monash, with his voracious curiosity and appetite for learning, would be proud to see his legacy perpetuated through the Foundation.
Currently I am in full immersion mode, soaking up as much information as I can about the Foundation, including day-to-day operations, scholar selection and experience, alumni relations, investment management, foundation support networks, governance, the Leadership Academy and financial support.
A key part of this journey is engaging with you – our community. If you would like to share your views with me, I warmly invite you to reach out and I would be glad to schedule a time to hear your thoughts and perspectives. I have already started this process.
I’ll continue to keep you updated on our progress as we work together to grow and evolve the Foundation. I’m excited to meet many of you in person over time and to deepen our shared commitment to leadership, impact, community, excellence and service.
Kind regards,
Ross Youngman
Chief Executive Officer, General Sir John Monash Foundation
