For over four decades, Gus was the heart and soul of the pre-eminent chemical engineering school in Australia.
The 'go to' person for students, colleagues, and industry alike, Gus' personal dedication to chemical engineering education remains unmatched. Well ahead of his time, Gus acknowledged the importance of a well-rounded education - one which included international education, vacation work opportunities, and industry networking.
He encouraged his students to undertake semesters abroad at international universities and broaden their engineering knowledge and skills - something for which he often provided personal financial assistance.
Gus passed away in late 2014 and while he will be sadly missed by all who knew him, Gus' legacy and dedication to students will forevermore continue at UQ's School of Chemical Engineering - through the R.J. 'Gus' Wiles Scholarship Endowment Fund.
Gus was both fiercely proud of, and incredibly humbled by the support shown by alumni and friends since the fund was established in late 2010. The original goal of the fund was to raise $500,000, allowing the fund to be endowed in perpetuity. As of 2021, the fund has reached more than $860,000 in total and will continue to support students with scholarships for overseas travel experiences for generations to come.
In memory of Gus, and on behalf of the School, I thank you for your continued support.
With best wishes,
Peter Halley
Head, School of Chemical Engineering
If you would like to help continue Gus’ legacy and provide life-changing opportunities for the next generation of chemical engineering students, please consider making a donation.
Give now Donor Impact Report (PDF, 12.8 MB)
Gifts of $2 or more to The University of Queensland are tax deductible in Australia.
The Gus Wiles Scholarship gave me the chance to study at Imperial College London for a year. I got to combine my UQ studies with first-hand experience in state of the art labs. I made international connections that will enable me to share knowledge and information on a global level. And I got a whole new perspective on the role chemical engineering plays in the modern world.
Thank you to all of the alumni who donate to this Fund. The Scholarship was a tremendous help and allowed me to achieve my goals and have this incredible experience that I will never forget
- Henry Provan, recipient of a Gus Wiles Memorial Fund scholarship
RJ Gus Wiles recipients:
- Madelena Gabrielli
- Emma Stratford
- William Mogg
- Kristiane Fox
- Xenia Plahotnik
- Henry Provan
- Claire Sotiriadis
- Ajinka Lornate
- Anh Ngo
- Euan McIndoe
- Geethu George