Endowments
An endowment is created by a designated donation and is a permanent, self-sustaining source of funding. The original capital (corpus) of the endowment is invested in perpetuity and can never be eroded. Only a portion of the annual investment earnings is used to support the purpose of the endowment, the remainder of the earnings are used to build the endowment’s corpus over time to ensure it is future proofed against inflation.
Why it matters
Curtin University uses endowments to provide long-term support for its programs, staff, and students. For the WA School of Mines, endowments offer a powerful solution to the cyclical challenges that have long affected the resources sector. They help the School remain resilient during downturns and build a strong foundation for attracting and retaining world-class academic talent.
WASMA’s role
WASMA is working closely with Curtin University to help raise awareness and support for endowments that benefit the WA School of Mines. Whether by creating a new named endowment or contributing to an existing one, donors can play a vital role in strengthening the future of mining education in Western Australia.
Champion new
Endowed Professorial Chair ($5 Million)
An endowed professorial chair supports WASM’s mission to produce globally relevant, industry ready graduates. Disparities in funding impact a university’s ability to attract and retain highly sought after professors globally. In the US, endowments are a key part of a university’s funding mix. For example, The Colorado School of Mines has 11 endowed chairs in mining-related disciplines but WASM has none.
PhD research grants ($1 Million)
This can provide an annual $40,000 top-up grant for PhD students to help attract top talent to WASM. Sector leading research in areas like critical minerals and dynamic testing can lead to tangible outcomes for industry.
Undergraduate scholarship ($500,000)
To establish a $20,000/yr scholarship in perpetuity: opening doors for generations of students to come. The scholarship can be based on academic achievement, personal resilience or a commitment to community. Attitude, determination and drive are just as important as grades when it comes to creating tomorrow’s industry leaders.
Make a lasting impact
To learn more about supporting endowments at Curtin University or explore ways to contribute, please contact Kathleen Lieuw-Kie-Song-Drown or download the brochure.
Kathleen Lieuw-Kie-Song-Drown
Head of Advancement
Faculty of Science and Engineering
WA School of Mines, Curtin University
Phone:Â +61 449 156 063
Email: k.drown@curtin.edu.au