Greer Banyer (BSc(Adv) '01, BTeach '07, MTeach '10) is a longstanding supporter of scholarships and bursaries at the University of Sydney. Her passion for giving stems from personal experience—having received a bursary as a student, she’s committed to ensuring future generations can access the same life-changing opportunities.
For Greer, the University of Sydney was always destined to be her academic home. With a multi-generational family connection to the University, she enrolled in 1997 to pursue a Bachelor of Advanced Science, majoring in Biology and Geography.
As a student, she was the grateful recipient of the Lily Lonnie Boot Bursary. Established through the generosity of the Late Miss Lily Lonnie Boot (BSc ‘35), the financial support made a mark. Reflecting on the impact of Miss Boot’s gift, Greer says, "Having someone think about your future, having never met you, really meant something. That level of insight and kindness is amazing…It made me feel supported and part of a community."
Greer's studies in biology set her on a varied career path that included research work, public service and teaching. Photo provided by Greer Banyer.
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LinkInspired by the foresight and kindness of Miss Boot, Greer has continued the giving cycle, creating opportunities for students who, like her, dream big but may face financial challenges. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of generosity and its ripple effects through time.
Driven to make a difference in her community, Greer has had a diverse career in research and public service since graduating. She began her journey on Lizard Island Research Station in Far North Queensland before joining NSW Fisheries. In 2010 she returned to Sydney to study a Master of Teaching in Primary School Education.
I think that for me, it's really important to give back when you can, it's really important to keep that cycle going.
Greer Banyer (BSc(Adv) '01, BTeach '07, MTeach '10)
Throughout her journey, Greer has cherished her connection to the University of Sydney. She reflects fondly on the relationship she has with the University, the foundations it provided and the sense of community and connection she gained through the Lily Lonnie Boot bursary.
‘I'm just so grateful for the support that I received. It helped me get to where I am today. I can’t emphasise that enough.’ It is this enduring gratitude that inspires Greer's giving now.
‘I think that for me, it's really important to give back when you can, it's really important to keep that cycle going.’
Greer hopes her contributions help ease the financial pressures and stress that many students face. She also wants them to feel the same sense of belief and encouragement that she experienced. She hopes they know ‘someone who has never met them believes they can do it, someone’s got their back’, just like Miss Lily Lonnie Boot had hers.
Greer celebrating her graduation with her family. Photo: Provided by Greer Banyer.
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LinkA bursary can be the difference between leaving and staying at university for a student facing acute financial stress. By supporting students through scholarships or bursaries, you can help to build a society where leadership and legacy is open to all. Learn more about how you can donate to support students.
Hero image: Greer scubdiving. Photo provided by Greer Banyer.